At Symetra, doing good in the world is part of who the organization is, not just what it does. The company views itself as a corporate citizen with a responsibility to help build communities that are healthy, resilient, and equitable. Through its Symetra Empowers Communities program, the organization focuses its giving, volunteerism, and advocacy on housing, education, and reducing barriers for underserved communities — elements that are the foundation of economic opportunity.
“We know that we can’t make meaningful change when we’re acting alone. So, we partner with nonprofits, business coalitions, civic leaders, and, most importantly, our employees. Their passion and commitment really amplify our impact,” explains Beth Osborne, Director, Public Affairs & Strategic Community Partnerships at Symetra.
Symetra first became involved with Habitat SKKC in 2021 through a volunteer build event tied to employee engagement. That experience demonstrated how impactful and scalable the partnership could be, leading to expanded involvement. Since then, employees have given over 500 hours of service, participating in home builds, furniture builds, and projects like playground construction at our recently completed Miller’s Creek neighborhood in Burien.
Beth noted that Habitat’s mission aligns closely with Symetra’s focus of financial freedom. She adds, “We are in the business of creating financial freedom for our customers, so it’s natural for our community engagement to lean into organizations that are working towards removing barriers to financial opportunities in underserved communities. Affordable homeownership is about more than a place to live; it’s a transformational step that provides people with stability and opportunity and supports the whole community’s long-term well-being. We partner with organizations that are data driven and knowing that every county in the United States, and particularly here in the Puget Sound region, faces a shortage of affordable housing, we remain committed to helping our communities address this need.”
Participation in Habitat SKKC’s 40th anniversary is meaningful for the team at Symetra. They feel proud to be part of an effort that has brought together individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and communities to address the affordable housing crisis and create lasting change through homebuilding.
Looking ahead, there is excitement at Symetra over continuing to work together to address different aspects of financial stability and housing. Symetra’s work through life insurance, employee benefits, and retirement solutions supports financial security for individuals and families and connects to housing stability. These elements are interconnected parts of a larger system that contributes to healthier communities, where people with stable housing can build stronger futures and reinvest in their families and neighborhoods.
As Symetra has added employees across the country, they have leaned into their partnership with Habitat for Humanity International in new locations. They are supporting employees volunteering in affordable housing efforts in their own communities, while continuing to support the organization’s longstanding commitment to the Puget Sound region.
