Innovation

Wimmer Insurance is transforming the world of insurance with their focus on direct outreach to communities and customized healthcare solutions for underserved communities. Contrary to typical insurance companies focusing on high-paying clients, Wimmer Insurance prioritizes those typically underserved by the system. Their innovation is an education-first, hands-on approach, whereby they not only help clients choose the most suitable insurance plans but also educate them on how to manage Medicare, Medicaid, and other healthcare options. Through free educational sessions for seniors, they empower people to make the optimal decisions for their health without expensive penalties, thus directly contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being. In addition to availability, Wimmer Insurance is redefining the work of the insurance agencies on the pillars of creating a model on trust, local relationship, and sustainability.

Instead of employing high-pressure sales tactics, they grow on the strength of referrals and relationships, creating a more integrated and community-oriented business culture in Detroit. Their ability to craft insurance policies that meet the unique financial and medical needs of individuals makes all people, from all walks of life, affordable and equitable to cover, thus attaining SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. Placing service over sales, leveraging technology to reduce waste, and strengthening local economies, Wimmer Insurance is not just selling policies— they are redefining the industry for good.

Inspiration

The motivation behind Wimmer Insurance is a keen desire to assist disadvantaged communities, fueled by the experiences of its founder, Lynnsey. Holding a psychology degree and having worked as a preschool teacher, she had always been drawn to helping others. But she was shocked to find that there were entire communities just 20 minutes away from where she resided that lacked basic healthcare facilities. This inspired her to start Wimmer Insurance, with a purpose of educating and advising the system's forgotten. One of the most critical moments for the company was when a transgender client visited her office, struggling to navigate the healthcare system.

The client had been with them for over two hours before she finally collapsed in tears and explained to them that this was the first time they had ever felt respected. Joel, not yet a part of the business yet, dropped by to find out what went wrong and asked what had transpired. Upon listening to the client's response, it was an eye-opening moment for him. "This was the turning point. Seeing the real effect of treating others with respect and kindness, Joel decided to align himself with his wife's mission. They have since founded a business based on respect, inclusion, and empowering communities, ensuring that all, regardless of background, can access the healthcare support they are entitled to.

Overall impact

When asked about the impact of their business, Joel answered that he would know by the end. What he was certain about was the fact that they were doing the right thing. He emphasized that sometimes the company leaves money on the table, as their priority is not to get every dollar possible. He then shared how he knows what it is like to be poor, and that money is not the best indicator of impact or success. As long as his family and he are doing good, he is more than content.

The innovation introduced by this business has had a profound impact on improving healthcare accessibility and financial literacy for underserved communities. By focusing on marginalized groups, including Native American communities and low income households, the company has helped bridge critical gaps in healthcare coverage and education.

Short-term, their work has provided immediate relief by connecting people with affordable healthcare plans, avoiding unnecessary expenses, and reducing financial stress for those struggling with medical costs. Long-term, the company's commitment to ethical business practices and community engagement is fostering systemic change. By leveraging technology to streamline insurance processes and eliminate inefficiencies, they are ensuring sustainable, cost-effective healthcare solutions.

Evidence of their impact is reflected in their growing client base, the increase in people accessing healthcare benefits, and their recognition as a trusted resource in the community. By prioritizing service over profit, they have set a precedent for socially responsible business practices in the insurance industry, proving that financial success and community well-being can go hand in hand.

Business benefit

Since founding Wimmer Insurance with a focus on underserved communities, Joel and his wife have had a meaningful impact both on the local company and on their clients. Taking action to focus their efforts on communities including Native American and LGBTQ communities has led to significant positive change within the company. As a team, they push education and offer personal services to their clients, and thereby have helped them navigate the complicated Medicare and Medicaid systems, ensuring access to these important healthcare services. Investing in technology has allowed them to offer many services efficiently and effectively, including compliance management, medical insurance audits, and personalized plans for their clients to help them save money. Rather than focusing on profits, they prioritize service, and help build trust through referrals.

By working with 67 companies and serving nearly 1,000 employees, Wimmer Insurance has opened new employment and partnership opportunities. Their collaborations with specialists in many areas brings in a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their office year-round, further strengthening the value they provide.

In addition to financial stability, Joel’s company has become a foundation of social responsibility in their community. They have remained committed to their mission, refusing offers to sell, recognizing that leaving could have a substantial negative impact in the community. In keeping their business going, Joel and his wife not only provide insurance but also strengthens their community, proving that a company that runs with integrity can thrive while making a difference.

Social and environmental benefit

Wimmer Insurance benefits society by providing greater accessibility and ease of use for disadvantaged populations, including low-income families. Many in these groups struggle to obtain insurance or lack knowledge about Medicare and Medicaid options. Through an emphasis on education and advocacy, Wimmer Insurance enables people to receive the education needed to make informed quality healthcare choices. The company arranges free seminars on education for individuals aged 55-65, helping them avoid penalties and get the best out of their insurance policies. Their customized approach has been a great success, particularly among marginalized groups being ignored by mainstream insurance companies. Beyond healthcare access, Wimmer Insurance fosters a community-first business model that emphasizes local engagement and ethical service over profit. They rely on word-of-mouth referrals as opposed to traditional advertising, ensuring that their growth benefits the community and not the interests of big business. They also partner with local small businesses, for instance, by offering their clients free coffee from a local coffee shop in exchange for client referrals, encouraging a give-and-take culture in the community.

Their innovation also contributes to the sustainability of the environment as they have decreased the use of paper in their office by focusing on improving their technological processes. They have also switched from using a traditional shredding company to destroy their confidential documents to a local business that recycles paper for companies.

Interview

Joel Machakaire, Managing Partner