Our History
Our Founder
Ralph Metcalfe
Mr. Metcalfe started Community Insurance Center in 1962. He believed that high-quality insurance and risk management services are critical to the economic development and stability of a community. Mr. Metcalfe chose the name Community Center Insurance Agency and later changed it to Community Insurance Center to highlight that central role our services play in the lives and businesses in the community.
The Olympian
Ralph Metcalfe was a remarkable person. He excelled in sports, business, and politics. He earned gold and silver medals in 1932 and 1936 Olympics, holding the title of world’s fastest human in 1934 and 1935. In the famous 1936 Berlin Olympics, Ralph Metcalfe and teammate Jesse Owens lead the US relay team to a gold medal defeating Hitler’s team by a wide margin in the 4 X 100-meter relay. That drive and commitment to be the best did not leave him when Mr. Metcalfe retired from track and field. He brought it with him when he started Community Insurance Center and made it a part of everything we do.
In 1969, just before entering the race for his first term in Congress, Mr. Metcalfe passed the leadership baton of Community Insurance Center to Milton E. Moses. Under the leadership of Mr. Moses and the foundation established by Mr. Metcalfe, Community Insurance Center grew into one of the largest insurance agencies in the Midwest.
Tribute to Milton E. Moses
August 10, 1939 - February 13, 2026
Remembering Milton E. Moses
The insurance industry mourns the loss of Milton E. Moses, who passed away in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Friday, February 13, 2026. His passing marks the loss of a true visionary, trailblazer, and champion for equity in the insurance profession.
CEO
Matthew H. Cooper
Matthew H. Cooper is the Founder and President of Inner-City Underwriting Agency and CEO of Community Insurance Center. With over 30 years of experience in insurance brokerage, underwriting, and risk management, he has built a nationally recognized career focused on expanding access to quality insurance in underserved communities.
After beginning his career with major national insurance firms, Matthew founded Inner-City Underwriting Agency to create innovative pathways that connect independent agents with major insurers- helping small businesses and homeowners gain affordable and reliable coverage. His leadership and impact have been featured in national publications, and he is widely known for bridging opportunity gaps within the insurance industry.
Matthew remains deeply committed to strengthening communities through education, mentorship, and economic opportunity.
New Leadership:
Larry Robinson, President
In 2018, the leadership baton for Community Insurance Center was passed once more to Mr. Larry Robinson who has renewed the firm’s commitment to world class service and community development.