Month: June 2024

BOSTON, June 12, 2024 /3BL/ – Sappi North America Inc., a leading producer and supplier of diversified paper, packaging products and pulp, announced today its Silver Telly and Platinum TITAN Business award wins for “The Power of Trees” video campaign. “The Power of Trees” demonstrates the sustainable benefits of wood fiber and its renewable, recyclable and remarkable nature within the paper and packaging industry.

The dual award wins underscore Sappi’s commitment to ensuring forest health and the use of eco-friendly production. Sappi’s use of wood fiber is a part of its larger goal of finding innovative ways to reduce its environmental footprint and use triple-certified forestry practices. From replacing single-use plastic packaging to creating textiles you wear every day, wood fiber helps replace other synthetic materials that are derived from fossil fuels.

“We’re honored to receive these accolades from Telly and TITAN as the second and third honorable recognition for ‘The Power of Trees’,” said Patti Groh, director of communication for Sappi North America. “This video has been vital in sharing how we are becoming more sustainable, and it tells a compelling story of the future of wood fiber. When our scientists craft innovative uses for the wood fiber that our foresters harvest and mill operators process, we’re constantly thinking about how we can make each and every day more sustainable. Using the power of trees, we create products ranging from packaging, specialty and graphic papers to dissolving pulp for textiles to cellulose for stabilizing cosmetic products.”

The Telly Awards recognize local, regional and cable television commercials, as well as non-broadcast video and programming. The TITAN Business Awards serves as a primary awards program that predominantly respects and appreciates unparalleled breakthroughs amongst entrepreneurs, business departments, companies and organizations, creative services, business technology solutions, products and services, alongside business websites both locally and internationally.

“The Power of Trees” video is a successful tool within Sappi as well, educating employees on the application of wood fiber and instilling employee pride, retention and recruitment To learn more about Sappi’s award-winning initiatives and “The Power of Trees” campaign, please visit: https://www.sappi.com/.

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About Sappi North America, Inc. 
Sappi North America, Inc., headquartered in Boston, is a market leader in converting wood fiber into superior products that customers demand worldwide. Our four diversified businesses – high-quality Graphic Papers, Dissolving Pulp, Packaging, and Specialty Papers deliver premium products and services with consistent quality and reliability. Our high-quality Coated Printing Papers are used for premium magazines, catalogs, books, direct mail and high-end print advertising. We are a leading manufacturer of Dissolving Pulp, which is used in a wide range of products, including textile fibers and household goods. We deliver sustainable Packaging and Specialty Papers for luxury packaging and folding carton applications with our single-ply packaging brands and for the food and label industries with our specialty papers. We are one of the world’s leading suppliers of Casting and Release Papers with lines for the automotive, fashion and engineered films industries.

Sappi North America is a subsidiary of Sappi Limited (JSE), a global company headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, with more than 12,000 employees and manufacturing operations on three continents in seven countries and customers in over 150 countries. www.sappi.com

Contact 
Haley Sinacole 
Account Executive 
Matter Communications 
1 978 518 4508 
sappi@matternow.com

BESSEMER, Ala., June 12, 2024 /3BL/ – The Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation and the Regions Foundation on Wednesday joined community partners to celebrate the completion of three modern homes that represent a series of new investments in Bessemer’s Northside neighborhood.

The prefabricated homes along the 2600-block of 6th Avenue North are part of the Northside Community Housing Development Initiative. The initiative was created by the nonprofit Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation as a crucial component of its long-term work to bring new investments and modern, affordable housing to the neighborhood stretching between downtown Bessemer and nearby Brighton and Lipscomb.

The redevelopment of the Northside community of Bessemer has been a massive team effort that began four years ago. We could not have done it without the support of the Regions Foundation and others.

Brian Giattina, president of the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation

For years, Northside was challenged by disinvestment, abandoned homes, empty lots, and more. But that trend is being reversed with the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation organizing perhaps the largest effort in generations to bring new resources back to the community. In addition to the Regions Foundation, community partners include Deer Valley Homebuilders, Inc., the Housing Affordability Trust, United Bank, the Alabama Power Foundation, the Navigate and Navigate Gives Back organizations and the Goodrich Foundation.

“The redevelopment of the Northside community of Bessemer has been a massive team effort that began four years ago,” said Brian Giattina, president of the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation Board of Directors. “We could not have done it without the support of the Regions Foundation and others. It took a team that could trust the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation and see our long-term vision for Bessemer. Our community partnership with the Regions Foundation is a critical element to our future success. BRC believes the organizations and individuals investing in BRC will see returns for many years. The development of these first three houses is the beginning, not the end, of the redevelopment of the Northside community.”

Construction of the three houses was financed in part by a $150,000 grant from the Regions Foundation, which works to advance economic and community development initiatives across metro Birmingham and beyond. The Regions Foundation is a nonprofit that is funded primarily by Regions Bank.

Today’s milestone is not only about celebrating new homes – it’s about recognizing how the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation has a long-term commitment toward investing in this community.

Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation

“Today’s milestone is not only about celebrating new homes – it’s about recognizing how the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation has a long-term commitment toward investing in this community,” said Marta Self, executive director of the Regions Foundation. “These investments are providing affordable housing for more families while bringing new vitality to the Northside neighborhood. The Regions Foundation is proud to support this work because we see the results that are being created, one block at a time.”

The focus of the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation goes beyond high-quality housing to include investments in public spaces, sidewalks, streetlights and other community assets. The organization also seeks to support commercial development and community neighborhood anchor projects to complement the new housing that is replacing vacant Northside lots.

Prospective homebuyers have two key options to explore securing a new Northside home:

Those seeking down-payment assistance from the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation can apply via Neighborhood Housing Services of Birmingham.Qualifying clients complete a homebuying education course with tailored advice and guidance designed to help ensure the client is financially prepared for homeownership.Following successful completion of the course, the client becomes eligible to purchase a home through the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation’s down-payment assistance program.Clients not seeking down-payment assistance may contact a lender of their choice to prequalify for financing.Once prequalified, the client can work with the Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation’s real estate partner, Barnes and Associates, to explore available options.Homes are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those who have prequalified.

About Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation 
Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation’s core value is that WE have a responsibility to improve the quality of life of our employees and our neighbors. They saw the Northside community, the neighborhood just outside the front gates of BLOX, struggling with vacant and blighted housing, poverty, unemployment, food insecurity, and other critical issues.

In 2020, Brian Giattina began to talk to people across the Bessemer community about starting a development organization to lead the effort to revitalize Bessemer. He formed Bessemer Redevelopment Corporation, a 501c3, in August 2020 with a Board that represents individuals born and raised in Bessemer and others who bring housing expertise to the table.

About Regions Foundation 
Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Taco Bell Foundation

IRVINE, Calif., June 12, 2024 /3BL/ – The Taco Bell Foundation announced it is awarding nearly $23 million in grants – the most in the nonprofit’s history – to more than 450 U.S.-based nonprofit organizations that champion educational and career success for young people. The Foundation is distributing a remarkable $8 million more than last year.

The Community Grants program uplifts youth by collaborating with incredible charities that serve the communities of Taco Bell fans and team members. Focusing on promoting academic success, mentorship, career readiness, financial literacy, and social-emotional well-being, these organizations help support many underrepresented youths and prepare them for successful transitions to higher education and beyond.

The nearly $23 million in grants this year had very humble beginnings: an average donation of just 44 cents donated through Round Up at checkout. Since 2019, the Round Up program has raised $150 million in funding for students nationwide to support initiatives such as grants and the Live Más Scholarship.

“It’s incredible to see our fans’ generosity turn into support for organizations that understand their community’s needs best,” said Kelly McCulloch, Global Chief People & Transformation Officer. “If it weren’t for our team members, franchise owners, and everyone in between who inspire customers to Round Up, this initiative wouldn’t be possible.”

For the first time ever, the program has broadened its horizons beyond the U.S. with a $40,000 grant awarded to Junior Achievement Canada raised by Taco Bell restaurants in Canada*. This funding will impact more than 1,500 students and is only the beginning of the Foundation’s journey to expand its influence.

“The Community Grants program has been a fulfilling journey for both the recipients and our organization,” shared James Mayer, President of Taco Bell franchise organization Mayer Management. “Many of our employees have worked with the nonprofits we support, like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, so they’ve seen firsthand the impact we have.”

The Taco Bell Foundation extends its support beyond Community Grants by offering additional funds through its new Impact Fund program. Nonprofit organizations submit creative proposals aimed at dismantling the obstacles hindering youth education access in exchange for the chance to receive funding for their idea. In January, the Foundation distributed $300,000 in Impact Funds to five nonprofit organizations to implement their innovative, education-focused concepts throughout the year.

To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation and its grants programs, please visit https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/who-we-support/.

About Taco Bell Foundation 
Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that helps break down barriers to educate and inspire the next generation of America’s young leaders. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached more than 5 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $188 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.

* The Taco Bell Foundation is an American 501(c)(3) public charity and not a Canadian registered charity.

Melissa Albano – Edelman 
Melissa.Albano@edelman.com

Chad Hoffmann – Taco Bell Corp. 
Chad.Hoffmann@yum.com

SOURCE Taco Bell Corp.

CINCINNATI, June 12, 2024 /3BL/ – Fifth Third has been recognized as a top regional company by Fair360. A national leader in data-driven insights, Fair360’s annual evaluation recognizes U.S. employers for their excellence in promoting workplace fairness through talent strategy, supplier diversity practices and philanthropic engagement.

“Delivering an inclusive experience for employees, suppliers, communities and customers is essential to creating a future with equal access and opportunity for all to thrive,” said Stephanie A. Smith, chief inclusion officer at Fifth Third. “We strive to uphold the highest principles of inclusion and belonging in our relationships with others and create experiences that reflect the diversity of those we serve​​​. This award serves as a testament to our commitment to create an inclusive organization.”

To create the Top Regional Companies list, Fair360 assessed survey submissions from employers with at least 750 employees in the United States within the context of their industries on verified policies, practices and procedures. Fair360’s specialty lists evaluate companies on group performance, and the list cutoff takes place where there is a significant difference between the top companies and the next runner-up. The list is specific to companies with a certain geographic footprint and compiled using the same criteria to evaluate organizations as the Top 50 competition.

“This recognition showcases Fifth Third’s commitment to workplace fairness and its understanding of how an inclusive workplace improves company performance,” said Luke Visconti, founder and chairman of Fair360. “The data shows that over the long-term, companies that consistently put their employees first and have strong rack records of respecting and embracing diversity, equity and inclusion, are stronger performers and better equipped to adapt to market conditions.”

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About Fifth Third  
Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Deposit and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.

About Fair360 
Fair360, formerly known as DiversityInc, leverages comparative human capital data to help organizations develop fair and inclusive workplaces utilizing benchmarking and best practices. Its mission is to provide committed leaders with insights to drive an effective workforce planning strategy, ensuring equity for all employees.

CONTACT 
Amanda Nageleisen (Media Relations) 
amanda.nageleisen@53.com 
Matt Curoe (Investor Relations) 
matt.curoe@53.com | 513-534-2345

Originally published by Attuned.ai 

In today’s shifting landscape, the dialogue on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is rapidly evolving. With high turnover for chief diversity officers and employers reevaluating DEI programs, it’s time for a fresh approach to workplace equity. Baker Tilly’s Chief Diversity Officer Shane Lloyd shared insights in a recent webinar with Attuned on how to create an equitable workplace.   

Emily McCrary-Ruiz-Esparza: “Shane was is your point of view, what advice do you have for employers who are worried about resistance or outright opposition?”

Shane Lloyd: “There are a few things that actually come to mind. I actually want to pull Dr. Steel’s comments around Universal Design because said another way that what’s called the curb cut phenomenon. So how do we design for the most vulnerable to the benefit of many and then begin telling some of those stories? So, if we think of curb cuts in the street initially designed for people in wheelchairs but also work for people who are pushing strollers, pushing baby carriages and then also people with temporary injuries or people with bicycles. How do we make some of those connections so people can see that we are aiming to lift all boats even as we are trying to level the playing field and closing gaps? So that mindset, that philosophy of curb cut connected to the storytelling, becomes particularly important. Next, I also think it’s important to make the invisible visible. So oftentimes, we might hear, well, why is there this special program or sponsorship program for women or people of color? Well actually, the reason that these sponsorship programs exist is because there’s actually a ton of very invisible untracked and unaccounted for mentoring that is happening in the people who are well represented in our organizations across levels.”

Watch the full webinar recording here

Learn more about Baker Tilly.

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

In today’s digital age, financial fraud is an unfortunate reality that many people face, especially the elderly. In fact, the FBI reported in its 2023 Elder Fraud Annual Report that total losses by those over the age of 60 topped $3.4 billion, an almost 11% increase in reported losses from 2022.

Leslie Wilbur, a risk and control self-assessment specialist at U.S. Bank, said she knows this reality all too well. Her parents, Gary and Cindy, have both experienced attempted elder fraud scams.

The unexpected call

One day, Gary Wilbur received a call from an individual claiming to be from his utility company. The caller said Gary was late on his bill and requested immediate payment over the phone. Gary later said the individual he spoke with was very convincing – and he and Cindy had recently moved so he thought it was possible that there were some final fees they needed to pay.

Ready to rectify the situation, Gary was about to provide his credit card information when Cindy intervened.

Cindy said her gut told her that something didn’t feel right.

“I knew we were current on our bills,” she said, “and when we were hesitant to provide our card number, the caller threatened to have our electricity turned off in five minutes and became aggressive. That is when I had a feeling something was not right. So, we hung up and called Leslie to get her opinion.”

Leslie agreed that something was fishy and that this was a scam. She worked with her parents to notify their bank, the attorney general and the Better Business Bureau of this scam. And, when she called back the number a few days later, it was using a different utility company name.

Gary said he’s lucky they realized something was off.

“If not for Cindy walking into the room, I would have provided my credit card information,” he said. “The person on the phone was very convincing.”

The deceptive search result

Unfortunately, this was not the end of their encounters with fraudsters.

Cindy fell victim to a scam when she wanted to check on an Amazon order she’d recently made. She googled Amazon’s phone number, and a fake number popped up as the first result.

Believing it to be accurate, she provided the representative a lot of personal information when requested to so he could “look up her order.”

During this conversation, the scammer had also convinced her that he needed to connect to her computer remotely to further assist her.

The next day, Cindy noticed small amounts of money being deducted from her bank account and called Leslie. They realized this was another scam, and immediately connected with U.S. Bank to close their accounts, and then went on to report it to all three credit bureaus to put a freeze on her credit.

“I couldn’t believe I fell for this scam,” Cindy said. “But through both experiences, we learned some valuable lessons that will help protect us in the future. We’re both a lot more cautious when we receive phone calls from people we don’t know, and we don’t share personal information until we are sure of who we are talking to.”

The power of family

In both instances, both Gary and Cindy thought to inform their daughter, Leslie. With her help, they were able to identify the scams and report them to the appropriate entities.

“For me, talking about finances used to be taboo,” Gary said. “But, after these experiences, not only are we having open conversations with our children, but we’re also telling our friends and family about our experiences so they know what to avoid.”

Leslie said she also makes a point to check in with her parents regularly and makes sure to tell them about new scams she’s hearing about on the news.

“Throughout both experiences, I learned that it’s important to talk about finances with your parents – and to create a space where they are comfortable to answer questions,” Leslie said. “These open conversations have really helped them realize that they can trust me and come to me for advice when they need it. I think my parents were initially hesitant to tell me anything that was going wrong because they were always the ones protecting us. But now it’s my turn to help protect them.”

Tools to help prevent fraud

Technology can enable a family member or friend to help you monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.

U.S. Bank offers Shared Access, which lets you grant trusted individuals limited mobile and online access to your bank accounts.

It allows them to view some basic account activity to help monitor your accounts for unusual transactions and potentially stop fraud before it happens.

Granting someone Shared Access to your accounts doesn’t give them full rights to your accounts, like adding a signer would, but does allow things like view-only access, which can be a tool to help stop fraud.

You can enroll in Shared Access from your U.S. Bank digital account and, as always, you can speak to someone from your local branch to get assistance.

Account alerts can be another way to spot suspicious activity. Many banks offer real-time text or email alerts about transactions in your account.

Learn more about common types of scams and how to avoid them. 
Read five tips for seniors to stay a step ahead of schemers.