Matthew L. Derrenberger

I didn’t grow up dreaming of a career in insurance, even though it runs in my family. My father built his career in the industry, and my brother followed him. My passion was always sports and coaching kids. But after working on my Business Administration degree from Eastern Michigan University, I realized I wanted a profession that allowed me to support a family and stay connected to what I love. That path led me back to insurance—and I quickly discovered a new passion for helping people protect what matters most.

In many ways, I still see myself as a coach. I enjoy educating clients about their risks, how insurance works, and what they can do to safeguard themselves. Our agency is committed to making sure people are properly insured and truly understand their coverage. We ask questions not to raise premiums, but to protect families and businesses from surprises when a loss occurs.

My understanding of insurance deepened early in my career when my sister’s home was destroyed by a fire started by a faulty electrical wire. Thankfully, her family survived thanks to their dog. The claim revealed unexpected rebuilding costs due to rising lumber prices and structural features no one anticipated. That experience taught me how important it is to gather accurate information and ensure coverage is truly adequate—not just on paper.

Our agency is family-owned by my wife, Marti, and me, with strong support from our children, Michael and Anne. Michael, a passionate father of 3 and a lacrosse coach, continues our family tradition of teaching and mentoring youth. Anne was an equestrian and lifelong animal lover who had been active in 4-H and community programs, she now has dedicated her life to the financial field, again enhancing her assistance to others. Their interests have drawn us into various boards and committees, deepening our belief that the more you help others, the better your life becomes.

In addition to running our agency, I’ve been involved in organizations such as the Michigan Association of Independent Agents, the Ann Arbor Downtown Rotary Club, the Pioneer Boosters Board, and the Washtenaw Area Apartment Association. I’ve also served as director for local and state, “Big I” Junior Golf Tournaments, including hosting the national event in 2001 at the University of Michigan Golf Course.

Family, community, and service are at the core of everything we do. We believe in building relationships, educating clients, and being there when they need us most. At the end of the day, helping people is what makes this work truly rewarding.