Month: August 2025
Allbirds debuts waste-based shoes
A Grandmother’s Relactation Success in Somalia
Published by Action Against Hunger.
The Importance of Breastfeeding
Breastmilk is a miraculous source of nutrition for babies.
According to the World Health Organization, “breastmilk provides all the energy and nutrients that the infant needs for the first months of life, and it continues to provide up to half or more of a child’s nutritional needs during the second half of the first year.” This complete nutrient package offers long-term benefits that help babies’ development and decrease their chance of illness later in life. It also helps mothers, reducing their risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Not only is breastmilk a perfect source of nutrients for babies, but it is also ideal in difficult settings where clean water, sanitation, safe food, or money for food are scarce. In these circumstances, breastfeeding offers unmatched protection and nourishment. It supports both the immediate survival and long-term health of infants in three key ways:
- It is uncontaminated, reducing the risk of waterborne and foodborne illnesses.
- It provides antibodies that help protect against a wide range of diseases.
- It is free and accessible.
These three attributes make breastfeeding one of the most effective ways to combat malnutrition, particularly in resource-constrained areas.
Breastfeeding as a solution for malnutrition in Somalia
Somalia is facing a severe malnutrition crisis in 2025. Nearly 1.8 million children are suffering from acute malnutrition, and 4.4 million people are experiencing food insecurity. Years of drought, ongoing conflict, and widespread displacement have pushed families to the edge. According to the latest Somalia Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, the situation continues to deteriorate—and amid funding cuts, urgent humanitarian support is critical to meet growing needs.
Breastfeeding has an important role to play in reducing malnutrition rates. It has been hailed by researchers as “the best natural resource to improve childhood nutrition throughout the world” due to its ability to prevent childhood malnutrition, including wasting, stunting, over- and underweight and micronutrient deficiencies. However, UNICEF reports that only 1 in 3 babies born in Somalia are exclusively breastfed in the first six months of life.
Increasing breastfeeding awareness in Somalia has the potential to significantly uplift the long-term health outcomes of babies. Every day, caregivers arrive at Action Against Hunger’s center, carrying babies in need of care. Action Against Hunger staff offer malnutrition treatment services and breastfeeding counseling for caregivers to support them. Since January 2025, Action Against Hunger’s Stabilization Center in Mogadishu has treated 1,463 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition and counselled 8,848 mothers on good nutritional practices like breastfeeding.
Maria’s story
In the farming town of Qoryooley, Maria Yonis and her family lived a modest but stable life, growing their own food and selling any extra in local markets. But in 2022, Somalia was hit with the worst drought in over 40 years. Four consecutive rainy seasons failed, and crops shriveled. To make matters worse, conflict in the area intensified from the ongoing civil war. Maria and her family were forced to flee.
They moved to Bil-kheyr, an informal settlement on the edge of Mogadishu. Once there, the family struggled. Work was hard to find, and putting food on the table was a daily challenge. Then, Maria’s daughter, Barliin, gave birth to a baby boy named Mohamed. The delivery was long and painful. Traumatized, Barliin developed a postpartum mental illness. She couldn’t recognize her baby and stopped speaking entirely.
Barliin is not alone. Many women in Somalia face postpartum mental health conditions for a variety of reasons, one of them being the increased level of stress associated with food insecurity that 24% of the population faces. Postpartum conditions can cause extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that can affect the woman’s ability to care for herself or for others, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America. It is essential for women to have proper support prior to and following the experience of giving birth, but unfortunately, stigma and limited access to mental health services often leave families without help. Maria took Barlijn to different hospitals, where doctors confirmed she was mentally unwell, but said there was little more they could do. With no other option, all the family could do was hope and pray for Barlijn to heal.
Meanwhile, Mohamed needed care. Maria did whatever she could to get formula milk, using all of her money and taking loans, but Mohamed wouldn’t take the bottle. He became weak, developed diarrhea and a cough, and began rapidly losing weight.
Maria rushed him to the Stabilization Center in Deynile Hospital, run by Action Against Hunger with funding from UK aid and UNICEF’s Better Lives program. Mohamed weighed just over 2 pounds when he arrived at the center. He was diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition, and staff began treating him immediately.
While Mohamed was being treated, Action Against Hunger staff offered Maria counseling from the Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) program. In the program, counselors often advise against bottle-feeding, especially in camps where clean water is limited. They promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and offer guidance when mixed feeding is needed. Maria thought it was hopeless, but the counselors told her something she never imagined possible: she could breastfeed again.
The IYCF program helps families see that relactation is possible. Through individual and group sessions, caregivers learn safe and effective feeding practices. “At times, we meet mothers or caregivers who say they have no milk,” said Safiya, an IYCF counselor at the Deynile Stabilization Center. “We give them psychosocial support, and we advise them to calm their minds and continue breastfeeding. Many of them succeed. When the cause is a medical issue, we connect them to the best care available.”
Maria listened to the sessions, asked questions, and followed the guidance. With staff support, she drank lots of fluids, practiced skin-to-skin contact with Mohamed, and let him try to latch. Finally, it worked. Mohamed began regularly feeding at the breast. Every day, he grew stronger, and his cough and diarrhea stopped. According to national IMAM guidelines, he met all the criteria for discharge: medical complications resolved, exclusive breastfeeding re-established, steady weight gain, and a caregiver ready and confident to continue care.
After only eight days at the hospital, Mohamed had gained over four pounds and was ready to go home. Maria left the hospital smiling, holding Mohamed close. “I never thought I would breastfeed again,” she said. “But every drop I give my grandson feels like a blessing.”
Today, Mohamed is a healthy, growing baby with bright eyes and a strong sense of curiosity. His mother, Barliin, is also starting to recover, sometimes smiling or answering when called by name. There is still a long journey ahead, but hope has returned to the family. Maria continues to care for Mohamed and breastfeeds him every day with love.
***
Action Against Hunger leads the global movement to end hunger. We innovate solutions, advocate for change, and reach 21 million people every year with proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. As a nonprofit that works across over 55 countries, our 8,900 dedicated staff members partner with communities to address the root causes of hunger, including climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. We strive to create a world free from hunger, for everyone, for good.
First Horizon Foundation Provides $25,000 to Red Cross to Support Relief Efforts in Chattanooga
This funding will support a wide range of essential services and resources in the community.
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — First Horizon Foundation announced today a $25,000 donation to the American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee to support relief efforts in Chattanooga. The funds will directly benefit the community by helping to provide with essential services and critical resources.
“Nothing is more important than meeting the challenges our communities face. Stepping in to support the American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee at this critical time is a top priority for us. We know the hard work begins as the weather subsides; and just as we have throughout our history, we’re stepping up to support efforts that will strengthen our neighbors as they move forward,” said Jay Dale, Chattanooga Market President for First Horizon.
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly applauded the support from the First Horizon Foundation. “In times of emergency, Chattanoogans come together to support each other. First Horizon continues to be a vital partner since opening their doors in our city in 1905. Whenever our community has faced extraordinary circumstances, First Horizon has not only stepped forward in ways to meet immediate needs but continues to provide sustaining support. For that, we are grateful.”
The American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee offers emergency financial aid, recovery planning and long-term support to those impacted by the recent floods in Chattanooga. Efforts will include financial assistance and grants for community-based services. Anyone affected by the flooding can call 1-800-RED-CROSS for assistance and to help the local American Red Cross chapter identify and reach those in need.
About First Horizon Foundation
First Horizon Foundation is the private charitable foundation of First Horizon Corporation. Founded in 1993, the Foundation has donated more than $150 million to meet community needs. Grants from the Foundation support the following impact areas: Arts & Culture, Education & Leadership, Environment, Financial Literacy, and Health & Human Services. More information is available at www.firsthorizonfoundation.com.
About First Horizon
First Horizon Corporation (NYSE: FHN), with $82.1 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025, is a leading regional financial services company, dedicated to helping our clients, communities and associates unlock their full potential with capital and counsel. Headquartered in Memphis, TN, the banking subsidiary First Horizon Bank operates in 12 states concentrated in the southern U.S. The Company and its subsidiaries offer commercial, private banking, consumer, small business, wealth and trust management, retail brokerage, capital markets, fixed income, and mortgage banking services. First Horizon has been recognized as one of the nation’s best employers by Fortune and Forbes magazines and a Top 10 Most Reputable U.S. Bank. More information is available at www.FirstHorizon.com.
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SOURCE First Horizon Corporation
Good Greek Moving & Storage Powers Back-to-School Success Across South Florida
Largest Backpack Delivery in Palm Beach County and Sneaker Sponsorship in Broward Help Students Step into the School Year with Confidence
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This back-to-school season, Good Greek Moving & Storage has proven once again that it is more than a mover, it is a champion for families and communities across South Florida. In just one week, the company played a leading role in two major initiatives that gave thousands of students the tools and confidence they need to thrive in the classroom.
On August 2, Good Greek supported Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward’s annual Lace Up for Learning back-to-school sneaker picnic at Snyder Park in Fort Lauderdale. The joyful community event featured music, games, food, haircuts, and special guest NFL Pro Bowl star Jarvis Landry, who helped distribute 500 pairs of brand-new sneakers alongside 300 school supply kits. Good Greek’s sponsorship ensured that every child left not only with the essentials to succeed, but also with the confidence and pride that come from being seen, supported, and celebrated.
Just a few days later, on August 6, Good Greek partnered with the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County to deliver 6,193 backpacks filled with supplies to 11 schools across the county, the largest single delivery of the entire initiative, which placed more than 16,000 backpacks in the hands of students before the school year began. From the Glades to the coast, children walked into classrooms prepared with dignity, encouragement, and the tools they need to learn and thrive.
“As someone who was raised to value faith, honor, strength, and courage, I believe giving back to our community isn’t optional, it’s a responsibility,” said Spero Georgedakis, Founder of Good Greek Moving & Storage. “When we deliver a backpack or sponsor a pair of sneakers, we aren’t just providing supplies. We’re delivering possibility, dignity, and a reminder to families that this community stands with them. That’s what being the Good Greek is all about.”
These back-to-school efforts are only the latest example of Good Greek Moving & Storage’s year-round commitment to strengthening families and communities across Florida. Beyond supporting students, the company contributes to organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Move For Hunger, Place of Hope, Homeless Coalition, South Florida Red Cross, and Little Smiles. Earlier this year, Good Greek was honored as Mover of the Month by Move For Hunger for its leadership in the 2025 National Stamp Out Hunger Drive, building on its national recognition as the 2024 Mover of the Year by the American Trucking Associations (ATA).
As Palm Beach and Broward students’ step into a new school year, Good Greek Moving & Storage reaffirms its mission to be more than a mover, partnering with schools, nonprofits, and families to deliver not just logistics, but hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for every child.
For more information on the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County and its mission to equip students with the tools to learn, visit www.educationfoundationpbc.org.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward and its programs, visit www.bbbsbroward.org.
To explore Good Greek Moving & Storage’s community initiatives, visit www.goodgreek.com.
For media inquiries, contact Lalita Bogatz, VP of Media & Marketing, at lbogatz@goodgreek.com or (954) 258-5329. Media kits, photos, and interview opportunities with Founder Spero Georgedakis are available upon request. For sponsorship opportunities, email sponsorships@goodgreek.com, and follow Good Greek Moving & Storage on social media or download the Good Greek App for updates.
About Good Greek Relocation Systems (Good Greek Moving & Storage):
Good Greek Relocation Systems, widely known as Good Greek Moving & Storage, is the World’s First and Only Total Relocation Company®, offering far more than moving and storage. Its comprehensive services include realty, insurance and title support, junk and debris removal, and automobile transport, making it a one-stop solution for every aspect of relocation.
For more than 27 years, the “Good Greek” himself, Spero Georgedakis, has led the company with a mission to transform the moving experience. A former law enforcement officer, Georgedakis founded Good Greek on the principles of respect, transparency, and customer care, redefining an industry once plagued by uncertainty. His vision continues to guide the company’s promise of delivering what he calls the “Best Move Ever,” blending innovation with an unwavering commitment to service. Headquartered in South Florida and expanding statewide, Good Greek has earned the trust of families, businesses, and some of Florida’s most celebrated sports teams and institutions. As the Official Mover of the Miami HEAT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Orlando Magic, Orlando City SC, University of Florida Gators, University of Miami Hurricanes, University of Central Florida Knights, Florida Atlantic University Owls, Florida International University Panthers, Tampa Bay Rowdies, Orlando Pride, Orlando Solar Bears, and the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels, Good Greek is proud to move champions on and off the field.
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SOURCE Good Greek Moving & Storage
Integrating Conservation Science Into Timberland Investment
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) NatureVest and BTG Pactual’s Timberland Investment Group (TIG) have released a new 2024 Sustainability Report showcasing how conservation science is being integrated into TIG’s timberland management practices. The report highlights measurable benefits for biodiversity, climate resilience, and local communities—alongside improved operational efficiency and reduced business risk.
In an accompanying video, Matt Arnold, Global Head of Impact Finance and Markets at TNC, and Gerrity Lansing, Head of TIG, discuss how this collaboration is advancing smarter asset management that aligns environmental impact with financial performance.
Newark Public Schools Launches Newark Saves College Savings Program
The Prudential Foundation provides grant to open college savings plans for kindergartners
NEWARK, N.J., Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As thousands of Newark families are preparing children for their first day of kindergarten in September, a new Newark Public Schools initiative will open college savings accounts for every kindergarten student funded by a $150,000 grant from The Prudential Foundation.
District officials and their partners today announced the launch of Newark Saves, a college savings program that creates a college savings accounts for 3,000 incoming Newark kindergartners beginning this school year. The Newark Saves College Savings Program is also made possible through a partnership with the FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development. This initiative is aligned with the City of Newark’s initiatives aimed at ending poverty among Newark families, including Mayor Ras J. Baraka’s Newark Movement for Economic Equity (NMEE).
“It’s not too soon to start thinking about 2038, when this year’s kindergartners will be starting college,” Superintendent León said. “As more Newark Public Schools students are admitted to higher education institutions every year, the Newark Saves College Savings Program will help reduce cost as a barrier to attending or finishing college.”
“At Prudential, we believe that financial security is the foundation for living better, longer,” said Shané Harris, Prudential’s Vice President of Inclusive Solutions and President of the Prudential Foundation. “Through the Newark Saves College program, we’re investing in Newark’s future by helping families save for post-secondary education, which is a meaningful step toward increasing economic mobility and long-term financial wellness. This initiative reflects our broader commitment to expanding access to financial security in our hometown and around the world.”
“FOCUS has always been committed to empowering Newark’s families with the tools and support they need to thrive,” said Maritza Arauz, Executive Director of FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development. “Through the Newark Saves College Savings Program, we are proud to help remove financial barriers and open doors to higher education starting in kindergarten. This program is not just about saving for college. It’s about affirming that every child in Newark has a future worth investing in.”
“Newark Public Schools students have shown time and time again that they have what it takes to succeed in college,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “The Newark Saves College Savings Program will help our students and families have what it takes to pay for college. It will help make college education more attainable for our students while helping them avoid heavy student loan debt. Of everything good in financials that this initiative will teach our students, the parental component in this program will be a game changer for their families.”
“We do our best in Newark to grow our children into well rounded adults with every life opportunity available to them,” said Mayor Baraka. “This brilliant innovation helps resident families grow their children’s college funds while the students ascend to build on their academic achievements. The awarded seed money, accompanying family financial literacy program and the savings incentives and rewards demonstrate the Prudential Foundation’s unshakable commitment to the highest caliber of corporate social responsibility. Newark is blessed to have Prudential as such a long-term, compassionate partner – and to have the creative leadership of Superintendent León.”
Superintendent León thanked The Prudential Foundation for its generous support and the FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development and the Newark Public Schools Foundation for their partnership. Every year, our students prove they’re ready for college. Newark Saves is designed to make sure they also have the financial support to finish. Through the program, district families will learn what they can do now to be prepared to pay for their children’s college education in the future.
About Newark Public Schools
The Newark Public Schools is the largest school district in New Jersey and dates back to 1676. The District currently enrolls over 41,000 students in 65 schools. After more than two decades of state operation and upon return to local control in 2018, the District has opened ten new schools under Superintendent León’s leadership with an additional portfolio of new options to be announced in the coming months and years. The Newark Board of Education serves as a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student. With a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and fostering a love for learning, the District continues to shape future generations and make a positive impact within the community.
About Newark Saves
The Newark Saves College Savings Program will foster a culture of college savings among families with children entering kindergarten by:
- Enrolling eligible kindergarten families in 529 college savings accounts with Equitable, a leading financial services company, by the end of the first program year, aiming for 3,000 students in the 2025-2026 academic year, while integrating financial literacy education for families.
- Providing comprehensive financial literacy workshops and college planning sessions at all of the district’s elementary schools Parent Liaisons, in collaboration with FOCUS and Equitable, will offer hands-on support to help families navigate the savings process.
- Developing outreach strategies in multiple languages to effectively engage all eligible families and close awareness gaps.
- Utilizing social media, digital marketing, newsletters, and conferences to ensure program impact and widespread participation.
Each participating family will receive a $25 seed deposit to open their child’s 529 college savings account, with opportunities for additional incentive deposits over time for actions such as parents attending parent-teacher conferences, and students maintaining strong attendance or participating in academic enrichment activities.
The Newark Saves College Savings Program is part of a broader effort to build a strong “college-going culture” in the city.
Research shows that a family’s ability to pay for college is one of the strongest predictors of whether a student will graduate. Even modest savings significantly increase the likelihood of both enrollment and completion.
For more information about the Newark Saves College Savings Program or how to contribute, visit newarksaves.org
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Contact: |
Paul Brubaker |
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973-803-6983 |
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SOURCE Newark Board of Education
Forager Project Launches The Cashew Project: A First-of-Its-Kind Multi-Year Initiative Supporting Cashew Farmers in Côte d’Ivoire
Dairy-free brand doubles down on commitment to organic farming training, sustainable agricultural practices and financial literacy
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Forager Project, a leader in organic dairy-free foods, today announced the launch of The Cashew Project, a first-of-its-kind multi-year program designed to support cashew farming communities in Côte d’Ivoire. The initiative focuses on organic farming training, financial literacy programs, and sustainable agricultural practices that benefit cashew farmers and the planet. The project aims to improve farmers’ livelihoods, challenge traditional gender roles to empower women in farming, and provide climate change adaptation solutions to ensure sustainable cashew production in Côte d’Ivoire.
Organic cashews are an excellent alternative to cow’s milk and other nuts. Not only do they offer strong nutritional benefits, but they are far more environmentally sustainable due to their drought tolerance and minimal irrigation needs. This multi-year initiative reflects Forager Project’s commitment to building strong relationships with the communities that grow their cashews and its commitment to helping to reduce the impact of dairy.
“Investing in farming communities means investing in the future of our food. It’s part of supporting responsible capitalism,” said Maude Manoukian, chief community officer at Forager Project. “At Forager Project, we support farming practices that adapt to climate change—not worsen it. Cashews cannot be grown in the United States, so our reliance on farming in other countries like Cote d’Ivoire, is critical in minimizing our dependence on cows for milk production. We believe when the farmers who grow our food thrive, so do we.”
This landmark program, developed in collaboration with GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) and olam food ingredients (ofi), is built around multiple training efforts in the Côte d’Ivoire community including:
- Climate-smart agriculture practices: Cashew trees contribute to reforestation when planted on degraded land and support biodiversity through intercropping with cassava and other local crops. The trees also provide habitat for pollinators and wildlife while requiring fewer resources than other nut crops. Farmers receive training in pruning, erosion control, and composting techniques.
- Organic certification training: More than 1,000 farmers are currently in the organic certification process, with field audits and traceability protocols ensuring product integrity from harvest to processing.
- Removing gender-biases in farming: Traditionally, men in Côte d’Ivoire have farmed with the women staying home. The program aims to help more women become farmers and become financially independent. More than 1,000 women across 18 villages in Côte d’Ivoire have been trained and a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) program is also launching to support long-term financial independence for women, with completion expected in 2026.
- Creating infrastructure for quality and impact: As part of the partnership, Forager Project helped fund a warehouse and drying yard in Djébonoua, protecting harvests from moisture and weather while increasing income potential for local growers.
“The Forager Project team is rooted in the philosophy of ‘Soil to Soul’—core beliefs that have always guided us. Nothing is more fundamental than the soil we have; everything else follows from there,” said John Charles Hanley, co-founder and president at Forager Project. “Whether it’s the cashew farmers that grow our ingredients, the harvesters, or anyone in our supply chain, it all starts with the soil. When you treat the soil with respect and care, it transforms how you think about everything you do. That’s why programs like our Cashew Project are so critical—it’s one way of ensuring that our commitment to soil health translates into real support for the farmers who make our products possible.”
Over the next two years, the project seeks to improve the lives of cashew communities, by supporting 10,000+ farmers – 50% of whom are women and young adults – through comprehensive training and support to enhance quality and empower farmers to achieve sustainable livelihoods.
This unique partnership demonstrates how supporting farming communities creates benefits that extend far beyond individual farms. Better tools and training lead to higher-quality products, improved yields, and better wages for farmers. Enhanced post-harvest practices result in better-tasting cashews that meet Forager Project’s high standards.
This program sets a new standard for how plant-based food companies can invest in the communities behind their ingredients—connecting soil, farmer, and food in a powerful way. To learn more about The Cashew Project, visit: https://foragerproject.com/pages/our-impact.
About Forager Project
Forager Project is a family-owned and -operated organic dairy-free creamery that creates premium yogurts, milks, and creamers from cashews and coconuts. In 2013, Stephen Williamson and his stepson JC Hanley founded Forager to help people eat more plants. Today, along with Stephen’s daughter Daisy, they continue the family’s mission of making food make sense. The portfolio of organic cashew and coconut-based yogurts, milks, sour cream, and coffee creamers proves that plant-based eating can be delicious. Forager Project is committed to transparent practices and positive impact throughout our supply chain—from soil to shelf. Discover more at foragerproject.com.
Media Contact
pr@foragerproject.com
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SOURCE Forager Project
Kimley-Horn Named a 2025 PEOPLE® Companies that Care
PEOPLE recognizes Kimley-Horn for its standout culture, employee support, and community impact
RALEIGH, N.C., Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kimley-Horn was named one of the 2025 PEOPLE Companies that Care by PEOPLE magazine and Great Place to Work,® marking its third appearance on the prestigious list. Kimley-Horn previously earned this recognition in 2017 and 2022.
Kimley-Horn’s recognition stems from its robust employee support programs. These include comprehensive mental health resources, family-focused benefits, such as adoption and surrogacy assistance, and a renowned 401(k) plan with a historically generous employer contribution of 16-18%. Additionally, Kimley-Horn was recognized for its KH My Way Dollars program that awards employees with monetary bonuses when the firm is performing well, supporting personal passions, family needs, or charitable giving.
In addition, the firm was recognized for its volunteerism and giving back to the community through the Kimley-Horn Foundation, which donated more than $1M to nonprofit organizations across the country in 2024, supporting causes from education to disaster relief.
Kimley-Horn also earned recognition for its sustainability efforts, which are rooted in its culture and work on behalf of clients. By serving clients and communities, delivering creative and sustainable solutions, Kimley-Horn continues to lead with purpose and innovation.
“Sharing and Caring is a core value at Kimley-Horn,” said Lori Hall, Chief Human Resources Officer at Kimley-Horn. “Our employees support one another and work together to positively impact our clients and communities. Being named to PEOPLE’s Companies that Care is a proud moment and a reflection of what we can accomplish together.”
Kimley-Horn’s recognition as one of the 2025 PEOPLE Companies that Care reflects a culture that empowers employees, serves communities, and drives meaningful change.
The PEOPLE Companies that Care list is based on over 1.3 million employee survey responses and data from companies representing the experience of more than 8.4 million employees. To qualify, companies must be Great Place To Work Certified™ and submit essays validated by employee survey data, detailing their efforts to support people, communities, and sustainability.
About Kimley-Horn
Kimley-Horn is one of the nation’s premier engineering, planning, and design consultants with more than 9,000 employees in more than 140 offices nationwide. In addition to being recognized by PEOPLE magazine, Kimley-Horn has appeared on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For list for 18 years. Kimley-Horn provides planning and design consulting services related to transportation, aviation, the environment, land development, transit, urban planning/landscape architecture, water resources, and more. For more information, please visit www.kimley-horn.com. Follow Kimley-Horn on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
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SOURCE Kimley-Horn
BioStar’s ITC Guide to the “One Big Beautiful Bill”: A Turning Point for Solar and Storage
On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) was signed into law—an historic piece of legislation that is reshaping America’s clean energy future. With sweeping changes to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), domestic manufacturing incentives, and battery energy storage eligibility, the bill represents both a massive opportunity and a pressing deadline for businesses and industries across the country.
For companies considering solar or storage investments, the time to act is now. BioStar Renewables, a national leader in solar development, compliance, and project financing, has released a guide to help businesses navigate the complexity of the new law and maximize their returns.
OBBB: A Game Changer for Clean Energy
The OBBB accelerates the ITC phase-out, reshaping the economics of commercial solar. Among its key provisions:
- ITC Available Through 2027: Projects beginning construction by July 4, 2026, remain eligible, but must be completed by December 31, 2027.
- No ITC Beyond 2027: Projects that miss these deadlines lose ITC eligibility entirely.
“This law sets a ticking clock on tax credit eligibility,” says BioStar’s ITC experts. “Businesses that don’t move quickly risk losing out on millions in incentives.”
IRS Guidance: Physical Work Matters
The IRS clarified its rules in Notice 2025-42 (issued August 15, 2025). To qualify, projects must begin “physical work of a significant nature”—not just permitting or feasibility studies. Examples include installing racking systems or manufacturing custom transformers for a project.
Importantly, the safe harbor provision based on 5% spending has been eliminated for projects over 1.5 MW, meaning developers must show real construction activity to lock in tax credits.
Financial Impacts: Opportunities and Risks
The OBBB changes the economics of solar and storage in several ways:
- 100% Bonus Depreciation
- Eligible projects can deduct their full cost in year one—replacing the traditional 5-year depreciation schedule.
- Domestic Manufacturing & FEOC Restrictions
- Beginning January 1, 2026, projects using equipment from “Foreign Entities of Concern” (e.g., Chinese components) risk losing ITC eligibility altogether.
- Compliance will tighten annually, with domestic content requirements rising to 60% by 2029.
- This shift is already driving 10–40% equipment price increases as developers rush to source pre-FEOC materials.
- Battery Energy Storage (BESS) Advantage
- BESS projects remain ITC-eligible through 2033. With wholesale electricity prices projected to spike, storage-plus-solar is positioned as a high-return strategy.
The Safe Harbor Advantage
Projects that secure equipment or start construction by July 4, 2026 can lock in ITC benefits under current rules. For example, a $1 million commercial solar system can save hundreds of thousands in tax incentives and depreciation when safe-harbored on time.
Why BioStar?
Navigating the OBBB requires expertise and timing. BioStar Renewables offers:
- Innovative Financing: PPAs, leases, and loans with no upfront costs.
- Proven Track Record: Over a decade guiding projects through ITC compliance.
- Nationwide Reach: Backed by Faith Technologies Inc. (3,000+ employees).
- Strategic Action Plan: Secure domestic content, safe harbor projects by July 4, 2026, and capture the 10% domestic content ITC adder.
Act Now
The OBBB has rewritten the rules of solar and storage development, creating an unprecedented but time-limited opportunity. BioStar Renewables is ready to help businesses act quickly, avoid rising costs, and capture the full spectrum of available incentives.
Download BioStar’s ITC Guide to the One Big Beautiful Bill here.
Contact BioStar today:
(913)-369-4100
BioStarRenewables.com
David Smart – dsmart@BioStarRenewables.com
