By Kathryn Kretschmer-Weyland and Roger Dahl
February 3, 2003

National Retirement Solutions President Duane Meek began his report on the 24-year partnership between the Conference and his company by pointing out that Nationwide is involved with cities in areas other than deferred compensation. He reported said that Nationwide has provided:

1) $250 million revitalizing urban neighborhoods;

2) $20 million to revitalize urban communities;

3) $3 million to Habitat for Humanity;

4) $1.5 million grant to the National Urban League;

5) Partnership with National Latino Children's Institute; and

6) Sponsorship of NAACP awards.

USCM Deferred Compensation Program Leads Market

With respect to the USCM Deferred Compensation Program, which NRS administers for over 4,000 local governments, Meek was pleased to report that Nationwide holds largest market share, some 25 percent. They are clearly the leaders of the field. Over 300,000 city employees are enjoying the benefits of a customer friendly supplemental retirement program. More specifically, he said, "we have listened to our customers and continue to make program enhancements. For example, in Fort Worth, with over 2,700 participants, the city was concerned with educating many employees in the language they are most comfortable with — we responded with a Spanish web site." And, in "Chicago with over 32,000 participants, new enhancements will benefit the employees- ability to save for the future."

Editor's Note: If your city has not yet adopted The United States Conference of Mayors Deferred Compensation Program please call us at 1-877-NRS-FORU or visit our website at www.NRSFORU.com. You may also contact Conference staffers Kathryn Kretschmer-Weyland (301.460.5251) or Roger Dahl (202.861.6731).