Donor Profile: Zehr Insurance

Zehr Insurance has been a pillar of the local community since its establishment by Horace Zehr in 1954. With offices spanning across four counties, Zehr Insurance has not only grown in size but also in its commitment to the communities it serves. Recently transitioning to third-generation ownership, Richard Zehr, Kimberley Smith Stewart and Scott Smith proudly oversee the business, continuing their longstanding traditions and ensuring the company’s ongoing success and expansion.
Specializing in unique insurance needs such as Vintage Cars, Farm and Business Insurance, and Rent-Your-Cottage Insurance, Zehr Insurance provides tailored services that address specific requirements, reflecting their dedication to offering exceptional and personalized customer experiences.

Many Zehr Insurance staff members understand firsthand the challenges of commuting from Waterloo, Stratford, and beyond. This personal connection to the community fuels their passion for initiatives that support local residents. Zehr Insurance sees affordable housing as a vital necessity for helping individuals who deserve a chance to live and contribute locally. They believe that accessible housing solutions allow people to remain in New Hamburg, fostering a self-sufficient and vibrant community.

Zehr Insurance first heard about LYNC through community connections. The grass-roots nature of LYNC’s mission and its deep community ties resonated with the company. They see LYNC as more than just a housing project; it’s a vision of a community within the community, offering social spaces and co-living opportunities that enhance neighborhood interactions.

Zehr Insurance’s commitment extends beyond housing. Their New Hamburg office is located in one of the town’s oldest buildings, constructed in 1848, which they have restored. This dedication to preserving local architecture has assisted in revitalizing downtown New Hamburg into a vibrant area.

“I’ve been on a mission all my life to put New Hamburg on the map,” says John Zehr, highlighting Zehr Insurance’s dedication to making the community a better place.

Zehr Insurance’s support for LYNC exemplifies their broader mission: providing gratifying services within and to the communities they serve, promoting local employment, and ensuring that these small communities remain places where people want to live, work, and play. They are not just an insurance company but a cornerstone of community strength and resilience.

We are deeply grateful for Zehr Insurance’s generosity and continued support for LYNC and other community initiatives. Together, we are building a brighter future for New Hamburg.