Amanda Kaplan: Building Community Through State Farm | Volume 1 - Episode 3, Part 2
The Dugout, Volume 1 - Episode 3, Part 2 (2025)
Brought to you by Port 44 and River Spirit Media
Spotlight on Local Business: Amanda Kaplan, State Farm Insurance
Good morning, and welcome to another episode of The Dugout! Today, we’re excited to feature Amanda Kaplan, owner of State Farm Insurance in Williamsport, MD, located right on Potomac Street. Amanda has been an incredible part of the revitalization process in Williamsport, and we’re thrilled to share her story, her passion, and how she’s helping our community.
Meet Amanda Kaplan
Amanda is a proud West Virginian, born and raised just across the border. She’s lived her entire life in the tri-state area, which she describes as “beautiful, close-knit, and full of opportunity.”
“I’ve never wanted to go far. I love this area. There’s just so much beauty and community here.”
And we’re glad she brought that spirit across the river, right here to Williamsport!
From Retail to Insurance: Finding Her Calling
Amanda’s path to becoming a State Farm agent wasn’t something she planned, it found her.
She spent 17 years in retail, beginning her career at Montgomery Ward in 1996 before moving up through the ranks into management and then on to Bon-Ton. She loved the customer service and leadership aspects of retail, but after starting a family, the long hours became difficult to manage.
That’s when a lifelong friend, Dan Hall, reached out and invited her to join him in opening a State Farm agency.
“I had no clue what I was getting into at first,” Amanda laughed. “But Dan assured me I’d be great and he was right.”
Together, they built a thriving agency on Virginia Avenue in Hagerstown. Unfortunately, Dan became ill and passed away in 2020.
“It was devastating,” Amanda shared. “I didn’t know what to do next. But then I was asked, ‘What’s your why?’ and that question changed everything.”
Determined to continue Dan’s legacy, Amanda poured herself into the business, and within six months, opened her own State Farm agency in December 2020.
Why Williamsport
When State Farm asked where she wanted to open her agency, Amanda saw an opportunity.
“Williamsport had that hometown feel I loved and I noticed there wasn’t a local State Farm presence here. It just fit.”
She originally opened her doors in the Bowman Business Park with the help of the late Mr. Bowman, whom she calls “a wonderful landlord and friend.” But owning her own building was always her dream.
In 2023, Amanda and her husband, who served as her main contractor, found a historic building on Potomac Street, built in 1870.
“We stood inside and I said to him, ‘You tell me if this can happen.’ He said yes so we went for it.”
Together, they revitalized the space, preserving its historic charm while transforming it into a modern, welcoming office.
“It has so much character. We wanted to make it ours while honoring its history.”
What State Farm Offers
Amanda’s office provides a full range of insurance services, including:
Auto Insurance
Homeowners Insurance
Life Insurance
Renters Insurance
Business Insurance
Limited Health Insurance options
“Most people don’t realize how affordable renters insurance can be,” Amanda explained. “It can even pay for itself when you bundle with auto insurance.”
Her passion lies in helping clients understand their coverage:
“Most people know they have insurance but not what it means. I love sitting down with them, reviewing their policies, and explaining not just what they have, but why they have it.”
Changing the Perception of Insurance
Amanda wants to change how people view insurance agents.
“I’m not your typical insurance agent,” she said. “A lot of people think we’re just out to take your money. That’s not me. My goal is to save you money while giving you better coverage.”
She’s known for her honest approach, customer-first mindset, and her ability to build genuine relationships with clients.
Stories That Matter
One story that truly defines Amanda’s passion involved a 19-year-old client who tragically passed away in a car accident.
“I had helped her set up a life insurance policy not long before. Her parents didn’t even know about it. When I told her mother, it gave her peace in the middle of heartbreak. That’s something you can’t put into words.”
Amanda also shared how she personally responds to local emergencies:
“When there’s a house fire, I try to be on scene within an hour if it’s feasible. Most customers have a check in hand within two to three hours. Sometimes, I even beat the restoration company there.”
That level of care speaks volumes. It’s not just about policies, it’s about people.
A Commitment to Community
Amanda’s philosophy is simple: serve with integrity, empathy, and excellence.
“Our office is built on customer service. We do things differently, with heart. We want every customer to know they’re cared for and protected.”
Contact State Farm – Amanda Kaplan
📍 Location: 11 E Potomac Street, Williamsport, MD 21795
📞 Phone: (240) 366-4131
🌐 Website: https://kaplancares.com/
📧 Email: [email protected]
Closing Remarks
That’s it for today’s episode of The Dugout!
Special thanks to Amanda Kaplan of State Farm Insurance for sharing her story and for being such a positive force in Williamsport’s growth.
If you’re unsure about your coverage or simply want to talk with someone who truly cares, give Amanda a call, she’s here to help.
“Sometimes the door doesn’t open right away,” Amanda said. “But when it does, you’ve got to take it whether you’re ready or not.”
Thank you for joining us for The Dugout brought to you by Port 44 and River Spirit Media. See you next time!
