Like a good neighbor, Stuart Heflin’s State Farm branch in Natchez was recognized with the Small Business of the Year Award at the 2019 Chamber of Commerce Gala.

“I was completely surprised and excited as I had absolutely no idea I was receiving the award,” Heflin said. “The Chamber did a fantastic job of keeping the award secret. I’m not one who gets surprised easily.”

The insurance agency not only works to help others live confidently but also participates in many different community events, including Cathedral’s athletic events, the Color Dash Run, Chamber Golf Scramble, the Chili Cook-off to support the Natchez Children’s Services, Highland Baptist Church Hunting Expo and First Baptist Church in Natchez’s Fall Festival, said Natchez Chamber President, Debbie Hudson.

“Their focus is on their community,” she said.

Hudson said Heflin and State Farm are loyal and active members of the chamber and Heflin served as chairman in 2016.

He is also a member of the Natchez Trace Kiwanis Club, the Krewe of Phoenix, First Baptist Church of Natchez and is a graduate of Leadership Natchez. In both the spring and fall, Heflin is team sponsor and coach for Natchez Dixie Youth Softball.

“Community involvement has always been something I’ve been very passionate about throughout my career,” Heflin said. “It allows me an opportunity to play a small role in strengthening our community. Natchez is home to my family, my business, my kids’ school and is where I worship so staying involved is a must for me. My hope and prayer is that everyone will get involved in some capacity to make Natchez a better place to live, work and play.” 

Heflin and his State Farm team of five employees received many accolades over the past 14 years out of 343 claim offices, 18,000 agents and 65,664 employees nation wide, he said.

Heflin received the Top 100 New State Farm Agent qualifier; a perfect 14 out of 14 years with State Farm as an Ambassador Club qualifier for which only 20% of agencies qualify; is a two-time Chairman Circle qualifier in 2015 and 2016 and is an Honor Club qualifier, Bronze Club qualifier and Silver Scroll qualifier.

“All of these awards would not be possible without my great team and wonderful clients. I am so thankful and blessed to have them both,” Heflin said. “Many think State Farm only sells auto and home insurance, but State Farm offers over 100 products including commercial insurance, life insurance, health and bank products.  Having a well-respected, professional and knowledgeable team that is compassionate in helping others are keys to our success.”

Heflin said his business motto is a simple one — to put his clients’ needs first — and that alone has been enough.

“Always put the clients’ needs first and do what is best for the client — not what benefits us,” he said. “We strive to know our clients on a personal level so that we can individualize policies that fit their needs. We want to be the first and best option for those looking for an insurance agency.”