Month: September 2024

Points of Light just released their latest business resources with a new comprehensive guide designed to help companies enhance employee engagement in volunteer activities. The learning brief, “Volunteer Time Off: Implementing and Optimizing Workplace Programs and Policies,” is available for free download at https://www.pointsoflight.org/volunteer-time-off-vto/.

Volunteer Time Off (VTO) programs, also known as Paid Volunteer Time, provide benefits for companies, employees and communities, including improved employee morale, greater talent attraction and retention, and crucial support for nonprofits.  

“VTO is one of the most desired philanthropic offerings a company can provide to its employees,” said Lacey Gaitan, senior vice president of corporate programs at Points of Light. “We believe this guide will inspire more companies and employees to engage in community service.” 

According to Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose® (CECP), only 65 percent of companies currently offer VTO opportunities to domestic employees. This is notable given that 95 percent of respondents in Deloitte’s 2024 Workplace Volunteer Survey indicated that making a positive community impact is important to them.  

The guide provides corporate leaders with insights on creating successful VTO programs, including strategic planning, program development, implementation, and feedback gathering. For additional insights, view the recap of Points of Light’s webinar, “Policies That Enable Employee-Powered Change.” 

“A VTO policy showcases a company’s commitment to social impact while benefiting both the business and its employees,” Gaitan added. 

ABOUT POINTS OF LIGHT 

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more equitable communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages more than 4 million volunteers across 38 countries. For more information, visit www.pointsoflight.org.  

Originally published on GoDaddy Resource Library

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career at GoDaddy.

Hi – my name is Jacob Rodriguez and I am originally from Phoenix, Arizona. My dad and grandparents are from Tamaulipas, Mexico. While I have never visited, seeing the motherland is on my bucket list!

Outside of my typical work day, I like to keep things simple. I love spending time with my wife. We’ve been married for almost four years now! We have three cats who are essentially are children, and they act like it.

I started working at GoDaddy in April of 2021 within the Website Design Services team. From there, I was fortunate to move into my current role as a Training Facilitator in February of 2022. I primarily work with new hires in both classroom and on-job-training settings. When I am not in class, I am either doing Guide workshops for continued education, or professional development to continue to grow my own skills.

I am a member of our Employee Resource Group, GoDaddy LatinX (GDLIT), where I am slowly getting out of my comfort zone to be a more active member. I am a huge proponent in learning from others – something I do constantly in my role. I believe that learning from those around you is the fastest path to growth; and I feel fortunate to have a space to connect with other employees who have similar cultural backgrounds.

How do you feel that GoDaddy supports you to do things that are important to you?

I have great work-life balance here at GoDaddy. I believe that if I were anywhere else but GoDaddy, I wouldn’t have that flexibility to dedicate quality time to my family and for myself. A big part of what’s important to me outside of work is my own health and personal care. Without the time off and flexibility I have here at GoDaddy, life outside would be a lot more stressful and chaotic than it already is!

How do you embrace change or innovation in your work?

Naturally, I am not afraid of change. I have never been one who likes a certain consistency, especially if it involves repetitive actions. Knowing and seeing the positive changes that are made on my team helps to not only have less fear, but to happily welcome the changes, and look to see how we can elevate our work.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you, and why do you think it’s important to recognize it?

I think it’s important for everyone to just stop and take a moment to re-center – get back to their roots and reflect on where they came from and where they’re going. Without this reflection, we lose sight of who we are as people and forget to remember the why; the motivation behind why we’re doing what we’re doing. To many people, myself included, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of reflection.

What does LatinX In Technology look like in 10 years?

I see growth; and not just in members! I see more Latinos and Latinas working for organizations such as GoDaddy because the opportunities have not only been presented, but more individuals are open to taking advantage of them. As technology evolves and becomes accessible to individuals, I can see more opportunities presented to those who do not have them present state.

Are you enjoying this series and want to know more about life at GoDaddy? Check out our GoDaddy Life social pages! Follow us to meet our team, learn more about our culture (Teams, ERGs, Locations), careers, and so much more. You’re more than just your day job, so come propel your career with us.

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STAMFORD, Conn., September 24, 2024 /3BL/ – Henkel has been named a 2024 Safer Choice Partner of the Year award winner through their all® free clear and all® sensitive fresh liquid laundry detergent products. Products with the Safer Choice label help consumers find products that work well and are certified by the Safer Choice program to contain safer ingredients for families and the environment.

The Safer Choice Partner of the Year Awards recognize the contributions of Safer Choice partners and stakeholders who have shown outstanding achievement in the design, manufacture, selection and use of innovative products with safer ingredients.

The all® free clear range of laundry detergent products are the #1 doctor recommended laundry brand for sensitive skin*, and this Safer Choice recognition helps further strengthen the confidence of the medical community to recommend it to their patients. Instead of just removing dyes and perfumes, all® free clear brand’s formula is built from the ground up, ensuring that every ingredient is chosen both for effectiveness and gentleness on skin.

“We’re proud to be recognized as an EPA 2024 Safer Choice Partner of the Year award winner,” said Martina Spinatsch, Senior Vice President, Research & Development, Henkel Consumer Brands, North America. “This award reflects our commitment to develop products that are safer for people and the planet. We believe that this is where our all® free clear purpose comes together with Safer Choice. It all starts with choosing safer ingredients.”

To qualify for the Safer Choice label, a product must meet EPA’s Safer Choice Standard, which includes stringent human and environmental health criteria. The Safer Choice program currently partners with about 350 formulator-manufacturer partners who make nearly 2,000 Safer Choice certified products for both consumers and commercial buyers.

*Recommended by dermatologists, allergists and pediatricians for sensitive skin

About Henkel in North America

Henkel’s portfolio of well-known brands in North America includes Schwarzkopf® hair care, Dial® soaps, Persil®, Purex®, and all® laundry detergents, Snuggle® fabric softeners as well as Loctite®, Technomelt® and Bonderite® adhesives. With sales close to 6.6 billion US dollars (6 billion euros) in 2023, North America accounts for 28 percent of the company’s global sales. Henkel employs around 8,000 people across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit www.henkel-northamerica.com and on Twitter @Henkel_NA.

Photo material is available at www.henkel-northamerica.com/press

Henkel North America Contact: 
Erica Cooper 
Phone: 475-232-4973 
Email: erica.cooper@henkel.com

Aflac is proving that a well-crafted philanthropic initiative can thrive by continuously adapting to the evolving needs of those it serves. Launched in 2018 as part of Aflac’s Childhood Cancer Campaign, My Special Aflac Duck® is a soft and cuddly companion that was designed to support children undergoing cancer treatment by helping them prepare for medical procedures, express their emotions, and engage in distraction therapy. Created with input from child life specialists and psychologists, My Special Aflac Duck® offers a range of interactive features—from medical play accessories to calming Soundscapes—all aimed at making a child’s journey through treatment more manageable.

Aflac’s commitment to My Special Aflac Duck® has not waned since the initiative’s launch. Instead, Aflac has continued to distribute the medical companion to pediatric cancer patients (at no cost to them) and has evolved it to support children with sickle cell disease, another population facing long, difficult treatments.

We invited two Aflac executives who worked on the duck’s development to speak to the program’s success and evolution: Jon Sullivan, Director of Corporate Communications, and Buffy Swinehart, Senior Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility. They share insights on how companies can sustain and grow their social impact efforts and remain true to their mission while making a real difference.

Listen for insights on:

How to pitch philanthropic opportunities to a CEODeveloping a public and philanthropic initiative that can stand up to scrutiny in public relationsThe importance of grounding philanthropic initiatives in data and research

Listen to this and other episodes of Purpose 360 Podcast here.

Purpose 360 Podcast is a masterclass in unlocking the potential of purpose to ignite business and social impact. Hosted by Carol Cone, CEO of Carol Cone ON PURPOSE, Purpose 360 illuminates the impact of purpose, from engaging employees and fostering deeper consumer loyalty to inspiring product innovation and increasing market share.

Carol Cone ON PURPOSE (CCOP) is a pioneering social impact consultancy helping companies, brands, and nonprofits harness the power of purpose to advance their business and societal impact. CCOP’s proven approach, developed over decades and hundreds of purpose assignments, meets clients at any point on their purpose journey to unlock opportunities to build reputation, inspire and engage employees, ignite organizational culture for innovation and growth, while supporting the greater good.

Originally published on Life at HARMAN

From Sound Waves to Roadways: Joining HARMAN 

Alessandro’s journey with HARMAN in the Audio Feature Technology & Innovation team began in July 2023, but his path to us was paved with years of diverse experience in sound engineering, broadcast production, and technology development across various industries. “Joining HARMAN has been a rewarding experience, filled with inspiring leadership and exciting projects”, Alessandro says. “The automotive culture here is rich and technology-driven, and I’m grateful to collaborate with such a dedicated and skilled team.”

A Lifelong Connection to HARMAN 

Alessandro’s relationship with HARMAN products is not just professional—it’s deeply personal; they have been trusted companions throughout his career. “I’ve relied on AKG headphones and microphones for years,” he says. “They’ve consistently supported me in achieving high-quality audio recordings and mixes.” ​

Now that he’s on the inside, HARMAN’s culture of transparency, respect, and a strong commitment to work-life balance resonates deeply with Alessandro. He appreciates the open environment where ideas are seriously considered, and feedback is welcomed. “I feel very much appreciated here, and this trust helps me enjoy what I do,” he notes.

A Lifelong Learner: The Power of Education & Experience 

Alessandro’s academic journey is a testament to his dedication to lifelong learning. Despite initially believing he was done with formal education, his passion for audio engineering led him to pursue later in life both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in the field. “They not only expanded my technical knowledge but also enriched my understanding of the cultural aspects of music and audio.”

With a background in electronics and telecommunications, Alessandro has seamlessly transitioned across various roles and industries. His foundational knowledge has been instrumental in adapting to new technologies and advancing in his career. “Understanding the core principles of the tools I use has been invaluable,” he says.

Inspiring Others: A Story of Passion and Achievement 

Looking back on his career, Alessandro is proud of the achievements that have come from his passion, commitment, and a bit of luck. His work in pioneering “loudness paradigm” in audio processing earned him the Audio Engineering Society President’s Award in 2021. “I hope my story inspires others to put positive energy into their work,” he says. “The rewards can be beyond expectations.”

As a Senior Audio Engineer at HARMAN, Alessandro is not only focused on contributing to cutting-edge projects but also on inspiring the next generation of engineers. “Working as a team has always been a key part of my approach to work,” he adds, “and I hope to continue advancing my career while guiding others towards success.”

Looking Ahead: Trends in Automotive Audio 

Alessandro sees the future of automotive audio as a transformative force in the driving experience. “The driving experience is becoming a living experience,” he explains. “Immersive sound, loudness comfort, and personalization are key pillars in automotive audio.” He’s excited about the role he can play in shaping these trends, leveraging his extensive knowledge.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook​ to learn more about our view on learning and adaptability in the tech world.

Georgia’s communities of faith have the power to change the world. They can play a vital role in ensuring that all people live in a world with a healthy environment, a stable climate, and resilient communities. 

One of the simplest ways for congregations in Georgia to take action toward creating this world is to advance climate solutions within their own communities of faith. From installing rooftop solar and improving the energy efficiency of religious properties to installing EV chargers to creating composting and recycling programs, there are so many ways for congregations to reduce GHG emissions and help solve for climate.

On October 1st at 11 a.m., Drawdown Georgia and Georgia Interfaith Power & Light (GIPL) will co-host a special conversation with representatives from congregations across our state who are putting climate solutions into action. Moderated by Hannah Shultz of GIPL, the panel will include:

– Maher Budeir of Roswell Community Masjid 
– Joanna Kobylivker of Adamah ATL 
– Rev. Jenny Phillips of the General Board of Global Ministries for the United Methodist Church

Click here to register.