Rowan Collection Agency has set an all-time high bad debt collection record during 2003. “Over 1 million dollars in formerly un-collectible accounts have been recovered during the past 12 months”, according to RCA Business Manager Wendy Diggs. “These dollars have been returned to the bottom line of over 200 local Rowan County businesses. This is an amazing feat considering the state of the local economy”, Diggs says.

About Shop Rowan First and Help Rowan First: I spent a little more time wondering about these two (2) recent initiatives of our Rowan Business Alliance. By now, I hope every member has seen, heard and/or read about Shop Rowan First and Help Rowan First, hopefully more than once during this year. It’s a little too early perhaps to begin reflecting on 2003, but if you will allow me some room here to wonder and to ponder as we approach the holidays, I would appreciate it. Perhaps you will too.

Established in 1960, Rowan Collection Agency collects bad debts for members of Rowan Business Alliance, formerly the Salisbury-Rowan Merchants Association. “These type accounts are typically over 180 days and up to 7 years old”, according to Rowan Collection Agency Supervisor Barbara Beck. “Although they are the type of accounts that others have given up on, we specialize in helping our members recover their losses by treating the debtors with respect. Many times folks fall in to trouble financially because of circumstances beyond their control. We find treating people with dignity and respect is a lot more successful than using harassment tactics.”

Executive Vice-President of Rowan Business Alliance Richard Perkins credits his staff with the record totals. “In 1996, when the previous collection record was set, our non profit agency had 37 employees. Today we have 9. We are worker harder and working smarter, using the latest technology, positive attitudes and integrity to achieve results.”

Rowan Business Alliance also operates ProBill, Inc., which is a medical billing service division, for its members. Net profits collected from ProBill and Rowan Collection Agency are donated back to the Rowan community under the Alliance’s “Help Rowan First” initiative. The most recent example of their “Help Rowan First” program was the Holiday Caravan Parade, which is a volunteer effort in conjunction with the Spencer Jaycees. The Rowan Business Alliance Foundation will also be announcing donations to benefit the community later this month.

For more information about Rowan Collection Agency, please call 704-636-3685 or Email Barbara Beck