For 100 years, we’ve made it our mission to restore lives, help rebuild neighborhoods, invest in communities, and support education and safety initiatives where we live and work. It’s what being a good neighbor is all about.
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. It’s more than a slogan; it’s who we are. See below for just a few of our Good Neighbor Stories and how we are helping small businesses like yours!
Small Business Spotlight
Maria’s Cakes
Owner: Maria Alvarez
City: Normal, IL
State Farm Agent: Axel Jimenez
Ever since Maria was a little girl, she dreamed of baking, and her dream came true in Normal, Illinois. Now, she creates all kinds of beautiful and delicious baked goods: from cookies and muffins to wedding cakes and more, with her unique Latin flair. She loves her community and is proud to make their special occasions even more special.
Ripe Life Juice Co.
Owner: Jamar Luster
City: Rockford, IL
State Farm Agent: Leslie West
Jamar Luster was striving to eat better but noticed that there weren’t many healthy eating options in Rockford, Ill. He decided to take matters into his own hands. With three hundred dollars and a blender, he founded Ripe Life Juice Co. He shared his healthy creations on social media, becoming a viral sensation. Now, he’s got a store in downtown Rockford, making it a healthier place, one juice at a time.
JJ’s Taco Shop
Owner: Ivan Vazquez
City: Hurst, TX
Agent: Alejandra Palomera
After working in the restaurant industry for more than 25 years, Ivan Vazquez first opened a small counter service restaurant in a suburban Dallas mall. Like many restaurants during the pandemic, JJ’s Taco Shop struggled for a while during Covid. Despite some health struggles and the challenges of the pandemic, the eatery made a comeback. They opened a second location this year and are getting great reviews. State Farm Agent Alejandra Palomera highly recommends the tasty tacos!
Towne Center Animal Hospital
Owner: Judd Johnston
City: Hurst, TX
Agent: Matthew Reinhardt
The Towne Center Animal Hospital has been In business for more than 25 years. Its current owner, Dr. Judd Johnston is a graduate of Baylor University (undergrad) and Texas A&M (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree). Like his State Farm agent, Dr Judd is very involved in their community, attending local Chamber of Commerce events and charitable fundraisers and while also supporting each other’s marketing events! Dr. Judd has also established a scholarship fund for A&M Vet students and also donates to local animal shelters.
Axiom Services LLC dba Merit Services (HVAC)
Owner: Carrie Bishop
City: Denton, TX
Agent: Trent Wilkins
Merit Services is a commercial HVAC company serving the Dallas/Ft. Worth and Houston metroplexes. In business for more than two decades, the owner says she founded the company on the principle of providing quality service, on time, with a personal touch. The company grew from three service vehicles to 35 today. Trent and Carrie work closely together to ensure that Merit Services can focus on keeping their customers cool, calm and collected!
Dan’s Bagels
Owner: Daniel and Jennifer Hilbert
City: Trophy Club, TX
Agent: Chasidy Murphy
State Farm agent Chasidy Murphy calls Dan’s Bagels a symbol of kindness, perseverance, commitment and community. The shop just opened in August of 2021. Dan worked in the event planning business prior to the pandemic. When there was no work, he started a “hobby” of making his “New York style” bagels for his family and friends. He turned his hobby into a thriving business. It’s not uncommon for him to sell out of the favorites before 10am. Dan’s State Farm Agent Chasidy is sure that Dan’s Bagels is about to take over Texas!
Learn more about State Farm Small Business Insurance here.
