State Farm Insurance Agent is a "Good Neighbor"

Thirty-nine years ago, Wayne Chesson was one of the few residents who settled in the . Not only did he buy a home with his wife and raise a family in what was than a small, quiet village with a population of 1,200, he opened his insurance business.

Since it’s opening in October 1973, office has been growing in numbers as did the population of Channahon. Today, Chesson provides auto, life and home insurance to 3,500 clients.

Predominantly, Chesson’s clients live in the Channahon-Minooka area, but he has some in Chicago, Rockford, Peoria and as far south as Carbondale. Most clients are referrals since he has done little advertising of his agency.

“I was out here when no one was here," Chesson said. "I was an overnight success in 10 years.

“Clients have stayed with me, despite moving out of the village. They have become accustomed to having me as their agent. I have multiple generations of clients.”

Chesson said he is on the clock 24-7. He is only a phone call away for his clients. And that phone call is not only his office number. He provides clients with his personal home phone number as well.

“I have calls at 3 a.m. to report to a house fire,” Chesson said. “I do my job and get out there.”

Chesson also meets clients at his office, located at 25154 W. Channon Dr. Chesson doesn’t have to battle heavy traffic and can be there in less than five minutes. He has the luxury of living next door.

Insurance policies/discounts

Over the years, the insurance agency has certainly changed. And, it continues to do so.

Recently there has been controversy on whether to raise the driving age from 16 to 18 years old. If the law was to change, Chesson said he does not see it hurting the auto insurance industry.

“New, young drivers lack experience and maturity and this can lead to costly mistakes,” Chesson said. “ Parents need to be proactive. The more driving skills the kids have, the better.”

Although rates for this age group can be high, student drivers on the honor roll can reap some benefits, Chesson said. The student discount provides between $200 to $300 savings within a six-month period on an auto policy, he said.

“These students usually spend their time giving extra effort and are more cautious and less likely to make mistakes,” Chesson said.

Home policies have slowed down since the house market crash a couple years ago, Chesson said, adding only a few are currently issued per month now.

Discounts are rewarded to clients who have multiple lines of insurance with State Farm. It’s not uncommon for clients to have auto and home insurance provided by the company at the same time, Chesson said.

About 350 birthday cards signed personally by Chesson are mailed out per month. Each includes a nail file or a balloon. Chesson said he enjoys knowing that his clients appreciate the small gesture. He has received many phone calls of thanks.

In addition to yearly gifts, there are things that occur throughout the year that Chesson passes along to his clients. For example, clients can pick up discount coupons for the Chicago Auto Show at the office. The auto show takes place at the McCormick Place in Chicago from February 10 to 19.

Community Service

Throughout his time living and working in the village, Chesson has volunteered his time to help the community.

For almost 20 years he has worked with Easter Seals, was a volunteer for 10 years with the and served the village for a total of 16 years as a trustee and mayor.

Along with his wife, Chesson helped implement the . As a member of the Knights of Columbus in Channahon, he is looking forward to serving the community at the K of C’s first fish fry of the year on February 24.

“I love my job and it’s a terrific business,” Chesson said. “ I have no plans to retire. I can see myself working until I’m 80 or 90 years old. I will just take time here and there to relax.”