The Connecticut-based firm - one of the largest insurance and investment companies in America - is a founding partner of US Paralympics and has been a major sponsor of the organisation for the past 16 years, as well as becoming the Official Disability Insurance Sponsor of US Paralympics in 2003.

In The Hartford's Achieve Without Limits contest, Americans are invited to submit a short video and brief essay describing a goal that they hope to achieve in one of three areas: small business growth, health and fitness or community service.

The top contestant in each category will receive a cash award and a US Paralympic athlete mentor to put their plan into action next spring.

In addition, the grand prizewinner will receive a trip to the London 2012 Paralympic Games to cheer on Team USA.

"We're all inspired by the courage, confidence and commitment of US Paralympic athletes who push themselves to achieve remarkable goals," said Karen Tripp, executive vice-president for The Hartford's marketing and communications team.

"We invite Americans to share in this passion for achievement by joining us in celebrating Team USA's journey to the London 2012 Paralympic Games."

Video entries in The Hartford's Achieve Without Limits Contest can be submitted via Facebook here.

The call for entries will close on Friday, October 21.

The Hartford's Facebook community will then vote on the top person per category in late November through mid-December.

These three individuals will receive the achievement award and work toward their goals from January to May 2012 and during that time, The Hartford's Facebook page will include updates on the contestants' progress toward their goals.

The Hartford will announce the grand prizewinner in June 2012.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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