The Insurance Brokers Association of Saskatchewan (IBAS) announced today it has raised a grand total of $52,500 for STARS air ambulance through the 2020 IBAS Charity Campaign.

This yearlong initiative was comprised of several small-scale fundraisers — most of which were administered digitally due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The total pushes IBAS over $70,000 in donations to various community causes during the past 12 months.

“Insurance brokerages are at the heart of Saskatchewan communities, large and small, and it is truly humbling to see how they have come together to help those in need in such a challenging time,” explains IBAS President & CEO Derek Lothian. “Regardless of where you live in this province, chances are you have one degree of separation to someone who has relied upon STARS; so we are honoured to be able to do our small part to give back and support this life-saving service.”

Half of the annual STARS operating budget is generated from non-government sources. IBAS’s contribution will fund roughly 10 patient missions across Saskatchewan, including medical and aviation crew, medical supplies, and fuel.

“This campaign would not have been possible without the tremendous support of both our members and partners,” says Lothian. “Whether you helped promote one of our initiatives, made a donation, or sponsored a virtual event, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Please know you have truly made a difference.”

IBAS is a voluntary, membership-based organization, comprised of more than 95 per cent of all independent insurance brokers throughout the province. Its 189 brokerage members operate 367 branches in 241 different Saskatchewan communities.