Author: sHq_LoGiNz

Here’s What You Need to Know

Now is the ideal time for companies to partner with a scholarship administrator – here’s why and how to get started before the academic year begins.

Every year, thousands of students head into the fall semester unsure how they’ll pay for it. At the same time, companies across the country are sitting on unused charitable budgets, looking for meaningful ways to invest in their communities, support their employees’ families, and strengthen their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.

A scholarship program bridges both worlds, but many companies never launch one because they assume it’s too complicated, too costly, or too risky from a compliance standpoint.

It doesn’t have to be.

What Is a Corporate Scholarship Program?

A corporate scholarship is a tax-exempt charitable award paid directly to an accredited educational institution on behalf of a student selected through a competitive application process. Companies can design programs to support:

• Employee dependents pursuing higher education
• Community students in a specific region, field of study, or demographic
• Both combine internal and external applicant pools

Scholarship funds can cover tuition and enrollment fees at accredited colleges, universities, vocational schools, and other qualifying institutions. Unlike bonuses or tuition reimbursement programs, properly structured scholarships are tax-free to recipients and qualify as charitable expenditures for the sponsoring organization.

Why Act Now? The Fall Enrollment Window Is Opening

If your company is considering launching a scholarship program for the upcoming school year, the time to start is now.

Scholarship programs require a structured implementation process: policy design, application site buildout, promotion, application review, and award disbursement. That process takes time – and the academic calendar won’t wait.

Students applying for fall aid need decisions weeks before enrollment deadlines. If you want to make an impact for the 2025-2026 school year, planning needs to start today.

The Biggest Barrier: Administrative Complexity

Most companies that want to offer scholarships never get started because of the operational and compliance hurdles involved:

• IRS compliance – scholarship programs must meet specific requirements to qualify as tax-exempt awards
• Application management – building and managing a fair, documented selection process
• Disbursement – funds must be paid directly to institutions, not individuals
• Reporting – maintaining proper records for each program cycle

Getting any of these wrong exposes your organization to legal and reputational risk. Getting them right in-house requires significant time and expertise that most organizations don’t have on staff.

That’s where a fully managed scholarship partner comes in.

How America’s Charities Makes It Simple

America’s Charities provides end-to-end scholarship administration for companies and organizations, so your team can stay focused on your mission while experts handle the rest.

Here’s what a fully managed program looks like:

1. Policy Design

America’s Charities works with your team to draft scholarship criteria, eligibility rules, and award structure – all designed from the ground up to meet IRS requirements.

2. Application Site Buildout

A branded, secure application portal is built with your organization’s logo, colors, and program name. Language translation support is available for programs serving diverse applicant pools.

3. Promotion & Launch

A coordinated rollout targets your intended applicant pool, whether that’s employees’ families, students in a specific region, or applicants nationwide.

4. Competitive Review

Applications are evaluated using pre-determined, objective criteria. The number of approved applications is limited, ensuring the program meets the IRS standard for a genuine, competitive award process.

5. Award & Disbursement

Scholarship funds are paid directly to the recipient’s accredited educational institution (not to the individual) in full compliance with IRS best practices.

6. Reporting & Compliance

Every program cycle includes a summary usage report and full IRS-compliant documentation.

Who Can Sponsor a Scholarship?

Almost any organization can and should consider it. America’s Charities works with:

• Corporations looking to invest in their communities or support employee families
• Foundations seeking a managed disbursement partner
• Associations and nonprofits wanting to expand their educational impact

Programs can be structured as one-time or multi-year awards, with national, regional, or local applicant pools. Eligibility criteria are fully customizable – GPA, field of study, financial need, geography, extracurricular involvement, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we limit the scholarship to employees or their dependents?

Yes – with IRS guidelines in place. The program must remain open to outside applicants, and eligibility cannot be tied to an employee’s position or require continued employment as a condition of the award.

What can scholarship funds be used for?

Tuition and enrollment fees at accredited educational or vocational institutions. Funds cannot be used for room and board, books, travel, or optional equipment.

How long does it take to launch?

Timelines vary by program complexity. Your implementation team will establish a launch date, application deadline, and award date during an onboarding call.

Is this IRS compliant?

Every program America’s Charities administers is designed to meet IRS requirements for tax-exempt charitable scholarship awards, including competitive selection, direct disbursement to institutions, and compliant eligibility criteria.

Ready to Make an Impact This Fall?

If your organization has been considering launching a scholarship program, there’s no better time to take the first step. Students are preparing for the fall semester, and your investment in their futures can start with a single conversation.
 

Launch a Scholarship Program: Schedule a conversation with our team to discuss your organization’s goals, then learn more about our scholarship administration services and how we help create meaningful educational opportunities.

Originally published on 3M News Center. 

The automotive industry is under pressure from every direction. Electrification, software-defined vehicle architecture, lightweighting, manufacturing transformation, repair and recycling are not isolated challenges. They are interconnected demands that automakers and suppliers are being asked to solve simultaneously, and faster than ever before.

3M’s new digital platform, “The Next Gear,” is designed to help. The interactive online experience brings together 3M science, technologies and materials in one place, allowing customers to explore how 3M supports the automotive industry as it works to build lighter, smarter, and more efficient vehicles.

Solving connected challenges across the vehicle lifecycle

“The automotive industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation — one that touches every part of the mobility ecosystem, from manufacturers and suppliers to infrastructure,” said Wendy Bauer, group president of 3M Transportation and Electronics Business Group. “As electrification, lightweighting, software-defined vehicles, advanced manufacturing and next-generation in-cabin experiences reshape mobility, the need for material innovation has never been greater. 3M brings deep expertise across automotive, electronics, manufacturing and advanced materials to help customers solve complex challenges, accelerate development and bring next-generation mobility solutions to market faster. ‘The Next Gear’ provides a comprehensive look at 3M solutions across the mobility ecosystem and demonstrates how we help customers move faster toward what’s ahead.”

The platform highlights the critical role that 3M solutions can play at every stage of the automotive lifecycle, focusing on engineering and design, manufacturing, on-road performance, personalization, and repair and end-of-life applications.

A closer look at automotive innovation

“The Next Gear” features multiple 3M solutions for lighter-weight vehicle design, including materials that reduce weight while supporting durability and performance, as well as noise, vibration and harshness solutions that improve comfort and design flexibility.

Manufacturing efficiency, quality and ergonomics get equal attention. Among the spotlighted technologies is the 3M Finesse-it Robotic Paint Repair System, which automatically detects topcoat defects, recommends a precise repair strategy, and delivers the solution in real-time as the vehicle moves along the line — offering more consistent quality at a faster pace.

Supporting electric, connected and personalized vehicles

This interactive platform also showcases 3M technologies that support electric and connected vehicles, including thermal management and battery-related solutions, as well as products that help protect and enhance displays, camera sensors, driver monitoring systems and other user interfaces.

With growing consumer demand for automotive personalization and repair options, the platform highlights ways 3M supports vehicle appearance, maintenance, repair and resource recovery. These solutions span wrap films, paint protection, collision repair technologies and approaches that can help advance serviceability and recycling.

By bringing together solutions that span design, manufacturing, vehicle performance, personalization, repair and resource recovery, “The Next Gear” provides a holistic view of how 3M helps customers address the interconnected challenges shaping the future of mobility.

Explore “The Next Gear” experience here: https://nextgear.3m.com

FAQ

What is “The Next Gear”? “The Next Gear” is an online interactive platform that showcases how 3M technologies and materials can help address major automotive industry challenges.

Who is the platform for? It is designed to help a broad audience understand the diverse scope of 3M automotive solutions, including auto makers, industry suppliers and others interested in the future of mobility.

What topics does the platform cover? It highlights 3M technologies and solutions for automotive engineering and design, manufacturing, on-road technologies, fueling and charging, personalization, and repair and end-of-life solutions.

Does the platform include electric vehicle solutions? Yes. It highlights 3M technologies related to thermal management, battery materials and connected vehicle interfaces.

Where can I explore the experience? Readers can visit the platform at: https://nextgear.3m.com

Originally published in GoDaddy’s 2025 Global Stakeholder Impact Report

About Us

We’re a trusted partner for millions of entrepreneurs globally. 

GoDaddy, the world’s largest domain name registrar, helps millions of entrepreneurs globally start, grow, and scale their businesses. People come to GoDaddy to name their ideas, build a website and logo, sell their products and services, and accept payments. GoDaddy Airo®, the company’s AIpowered experience, makes growing a small business faster and easier by helping them get their ideas online in minutes, drive traffic and boost sales. GoDaddy’s expert guides are available 24/7 in most regions to provide assistance. To learn more about the company, visit www.GoDaddy.com.

OUR PURPOSE

Make opportunity more inclusive for all.

OUR PRODUCT AND SERVICES

WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM

In 2025, GoDaddy joined the World Economic Forum, an organization focused on improving the state of the world through multistakeholder collaboration. This engagement reflects a shared belief that global challenges require collective action and that bringing together leaders from business, government, and civil society can help scale solutions and drive meaningful impact.

Corporate Sustainability Approach

GoDaddy conducts periodic assessments to identify and prioritize the sustainability topics most relevant to our business, stakeholders, society, and the environment. Our most recent double materiality assessment (DMA) evaluated the potential impact that our operations might have on people and the planet, and how sustainability-related risks and opportunities might affect our business.

The results of the assessment inform our sustainability strategy, governance, and disclosures, including our approach to managing potential climate-related risks and opportunities across our value chain. The results also help focus our efforts on the topics that matter most and support informed decision-making that strengthens our long-term resilience and value creation.

Our four-pillar sustainability framework forms the foundation of GoDaddy’s corporate sustainability approach. Through the DMA, we identified 13 priority sustainability topics spanning these pillars.

CUSTOMERS & COMMUNITIES 

• Community engagement
• Customer experience
• Inclusive entrepreneurship

PEOPLE & CULTURE

• People-centered strategy
• Employee attraction, retention, and development
• Employee wellbeing

RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE & OPERATIONS

• Responsible AI
• Trust and safety
• Corporate governance
• Cybersecurity
• Data privacy

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

• Climate change
• Energy

We identified seven priority United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that guide our sustainability efforts and align with our corporate objectives. We disclose our progress annually in the Frameworks & Metrics section of this report. As signatories to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), we support the UNGC’s Ten Principles.

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Learn more about GoDaddy’s 2025 Global Stakeholder Impact Report. 

About this Report

The GoDaddy 2025 Global Stakeholder Impact Report details our progress toward our corporate sustainability goals, strategies, and initiatives in support of our overarching purpose and values. Unless otherwise noted, this report reflects our corporate sustainability performance across our global operations covering the fiscal year period from January 1 to December 31, 2025. To demonstrate our commitment to transparent communication regarding our sustainability progress, we routinely share updates through our website and our annual reporting. We welcome your questions, comments, and feedback on this report by contacting ESG@GoDaddy.com.

This report references the Global Reporting Initiative Standards, includes select Sustainability Accounting Standards Board metrics for the Internet Media and Services sector, and the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures. We also disclose our contributions and progress toward priority UN SDGs. For additional information on how we align with these frameworks and key indicators demonstrating our sustainability performance, please refer to the Frameworks & Metrics section.

About GoDaddy

GoDaddy, the world’s largest domain name registrar, helps millions of entrepreneurs globally start, grow, and scale their businesses. People come to GoDaddy to name their idea, build a website and logo, sell their products and services and accept payments. GoDaddy Airo®, the company’s AI-powered experience, makes growing a small business faster and easier by helping them to get their idea online in minutes, drive traffic and boost sales. GoDaddy’s expert guides are available 24/7 to provide assistance. To learn more about the company, visit www.GoDaddy.com.

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

by Allison Stowell

Have chronic congestion? “Stop consuming dairy.” Unrelenting belly problems? “Mmmm, could be cow’s milk.” Have you let this thinking guide your decision to avoid dairy? If so, you may lose out on essential macro and micronutrients. You could also pass up live and active cultures (probiotics). On top of that, steering clear of dairy may not even solve the issue (especially regarding congestion).

Dairy 101

Dairy Allergy. A dairy allergy is identified by an allergy to dairy proteins, casein, and whey. We find these proteins in many products (beyond milk), including breads, sauces, and more. To avoid them, use the allergy statement (calling out milk) on packaged products. And opt for dairy alternatives without added sugar and with micronutrients (especially vitamin D and calcium). Keep in mind that, unlike cow’s milk, dairy alternatives are typically low in protein. To compensate, choose soy milk or a protein-enhanced option.

Lactose Intolerance. In many cases, an issue with “dairy” really means lactose intolerance. Lactose, the sugar in milk, breaks down with the lactase enzyme. Some individuals lack lactase and can’t effectively digest lactose. Others may live with gastrointestinal disorders worsened by lactose. But this doesn’t mean passing up on dairy altogether. For example, aged cheeses like provolone, cheddar, Swiss, and parmesan are nearly lactose-free. And some dairy products are enhanced with lactase to become lactose-free.

Active Cultures. Probiotics, or “good bacteria,” are live and active cultures that benefit and balance our gut microbiome. They have many positive impacts, including reducing gut inflammation, supporting our immune system, and reducing the potential for gastrointestinal disorders. Go for yogurt with live and active cultures listed on the ingredient list, or kefir, which is naturally rich in probiotics.

Dairy Across the Lifespan

Early Childhood. Milk offers a balanced blend of nutrition that benefits us beginning in early childhood. From 12-24 months, whole milk is the recommendation for brain health. For children over age two, low-fat milk is encouraged.

Teens. Adequate calcium is essential in the teen years for bone health and injury prevention. Bone is active tissue that consistently breaks down and remineralizes (grows). Adequate calcium supports this process to ensure good bone density. This is particularly important for young women in their later teens (and early twenties) who are absorbing calcium and mineralizing bone to set the stage for better bone health in midlife and beyond. Teens should aim for 1300mg of calcium per day.

Adulthood. Dairy foods contribute to a balanced diet in adulthood. Low- or non-fat milk is recommended to limit or reduce intake of saturated fat and dietary cholesterol. Adults under age 50 should consume 1000mg of calcium per day.

Over 50. Declining estrogen negatively affects bone mineralization and increases risk of osteoporosis in women. For this reason, daily calcium needs increase to 1200mg per day for women over 50 (for men, after age 70). For better absorption, and to limit other potential health risks, consuming calcium from low-fat dairy (and other sources) is preferred over supplements.

Go beyond smoothies and parfaits. Enjoy these delicious recipes that make creative use of Greek yogurt:

Middle Eastern Tuna Salad

3 Guiding Stars

 

Creamy Avocado Yogurt Dressing

2 Guiding Stars

 

Cucumber Yogurt Salad

1 Guiding Stars

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores, in Circana’ Attribute Marketplace, and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Originally published on newsroom.marykay.com

DALLAS, June 10, 2026 /3BL/ – The Mary Kay Ash Foundation^®, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which raises and distributes funds to invest in breakthrough cancer research to find cures for cancers affecting women and ending domestic violence against women, marks its 30^th anniversary with one powerful milestone. More than $100 million has been invested in life-saving cancer research and critical domestic violence prevention and support programs across the United States, impacting millions of women and their families. For three decades, the Foundation has been a driving force for change – empowering women, advancing breakthroughs in cancer care, and ensuring survivors find safety, healing, and hope.

Founded in 1996 to honour Mary Kay Ash’s vision of enriching women’s lives, the Foundation has grown into a national leader tackling two of the most rampant issues affecting women today: cancer and domestic violence. Its impact is measured not only in dollars, but in lives transformed.

By the Numbers: 30 Years of Impact

• $100+ million donated to fund women’s cancer research and end domestic violence
• $41+ million invested in innovative cancer research, clinical trials, and support programs
• $60+ million granted to domestic violence shelters and support services nationwide
• 300+ cancer researchers funded, accelerating breakthroughs in detection, diagnosis, and treatment
• 5 years of clinical trials supported, advancing cutting-edge solutions for women’s cancers
• 2,800+ domestic violence shelters and organizations supported
• More than 4 million women and children impacted through life-changing services and programs
• 750,000+ hours of cancer research enabled
• 13 international cancer research fellows sponsored, expanding global innovation
• $30,000 Matching Gift Challenge successfully funded by The Mary Kay Family Foundation (Feb. 2026)

Read the full Mary Kay Ash Foundation 30th Anniversary Report and personal testimonials from community supporters on how the Foundation’s impact has positively changed lives for the better.

A Mission Rooted in Urgency and Hope

The Foundation’s work addresses staggering realities:

• 1 in 3 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in her lifetime. (American Cancer Society)
• 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence. (National Domestic Violence Hotline)

Through strategic partnerships, research funding, and frontline support, the Mary Kay Ash Foundation is rewriting these outcomes – delivering hope where and when it is needed most.

“The Mary Kay Ash Foundation remains unwavering in its commitment to creating a world where women feel seen, supported, empowered, and hopeful during some of life’s most vulnerable moments,” said Michael Lunceford, President, Board of Directors, Mary Kay Ash Foundation. “For more than 30 years, we have earnestly carried the responsibility and privilege of advancing a mission rooted in protecting and enriching the lives of women. It is an honor to turn generosity into action, advocacy into progress, and partnerships into transformative impact in pursuit of a safer, healthier future for women.”

Fueling Breakthroughs in Women’s Cancer Research

For 30 years, the Foundation has championed innovative translational research, helping scientists turn discoveries into real-world treatments.

Notably:

• 80% of funded researchers report advancing paradigm-shifting insights in cancer research.
• 72% developed new techniques or technologies, shaping the future of care.
• 71% saw their work translated into clinical settings, directly impacting patient outcomes.

These efforts have contributed to major breakthroughs in the most common and aggressive forms of cancers affecting women including breast, ovarian, uterine, endometrial, and others.

Creating Lifelines for Survivors of Domestic Violence

Since 2000, the Foundation has invested deeply in the fight to end domestic violence:

• Funding over 2,800 organizations nationwide providing shelter, advocacy, and recovery services
• Supporting millions of women and children on their journey to safety and independence
• Partnering with leading organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline to expand life-saving resources and education nationwide.

A Movement Powered by Ambassadors

It takes a village to create change, and the Mary Kay Ash Foundation Ambassadors are no exception. This group comprised of thousands of advocates spanning from coast to coast, work tirelessly to advocate, fundraise, and bring awareness to the mission in their local communities. Becoming a Mary Kay Ash Foundation Ambassador is quick and easy with endless opportunities to make a real impact. Complete the online Ambassador application.

Looking Ahead

With three decades down and more work to be done, the Foundation is not slowing down in its commitment to accelerating women’s cancer research, expanding access to care, and building safer communities for women and their families. With momentum stronger than ever, the Mary Kay Ash Foundation is poised to make the next 30 years even more impactful. Visit www.marykayashfoundation.org to support the mission, become an ambassador, or join the movement in your local community to create a safer, healthier world for women.

***

About the Mary Kay Ash Foundation^® 

Celebrating its 30^th anniversary, guided by Mary Kay Ash’s dream to enrich the lives of women everywhere, the Mary Kay Ash Foundation^® raises and distributes funds to end domestic violence and invest in breakthrough cancer research to find cures for women-related cancers. Since 1996, the Mary Kay Ash Foundation has contributed more than $100 million to organizations aligned with its two-fold mission. In addition, the Foundation supports awareness initiatives, community outreach programs, and advocates for legislation to ensure women are healthy and safe. Together, we can make the world better for women. To learn more about how to educate, advocate, volunteer, donate, and join life-saving work to support and empower women, visit marykayashfoundation.org, or find us on Facebook and Instagram.

###

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
newsroom.marykay.com
972.687.5332 or media@mkcorp.com

On Saturday, May 30th, AEG employees came together to volunteer at the Little Tokyo Service Center’s (LTSC) “pLAy Day” at the Terasaki Budokan, a free, inclusive community event bringing people of all ages together through movement, wellness, and connection.

Created to expand access to sports and recreational activities, pLAy Day focuses on reaching individuals and families who may not otherwise have the opportunity to engage in organized play. AEG’s LA Kings hockey development team was on-site offering hands-on introductions to the sport, bringing the energy of the company’s marquee hockey franchise directly into the community in an approachable and engaging way.

The event highlights the importance of intergenerational programming, creating shared experiences for youth, families, and seniors alike. Beyond sport, pLAy Day also featured mental health focused programming led by trained organizations, highlighting the critical role healthy play and positive coaching can have in supporting overall well-being.

On Thursday, May 21st, AEG’s LA Galaxy hosted a free youth futsal clinic at Galaxy Park for the Terasaki Budokan, giving participants an up-close look at the sport in an accessible, community-focused setting.

AEG’s participation reflects its broader commitment to using the power of sports and live experiences to strengthen the communities across Los Angeles. By supporting LTSC and its partners, the company’s employees helped advance programming that promotes physical activity, fosters connection, and prioritized mental wellness, demonstrating how collective action can build more inclusive and resilient communities.

LTSC has long been a cornerstone of the Little Tokyo community, providing critical social services, housing support and community programming to underserved populations across Los Angeles. To learn more, click here.

The Ray has released a new ArcGIS StoryMap case study, Digital Work Zone Safety: Connected Equipment in Louisiana, showcasing how the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) is moving away from paper-based workflows toward integrated digital project delivery to save lives.

Click here for the Louisiana Case Study

Traditional work zones rely on static cones and signage, but this initiative demonstrates that modern construction equipment can broadcast live operational data directly to a centralized digital system, significantly reducing risks for roadside crews and drivers alike.

By leveraging connected equipment, telematics, and digital mapping solutions, the project builds a pipeline of real-time data that achieves three core operational milestones:

Real-Time Driver Alerts: Funneling active work zone coordinates into consumer navigation apps and connected vehicle (V2X) platforms warns drivers well before they reach the site.

Granular Asset Tracking: Fleet managers gain a comprehensive, digitized view of equipment deployment, usage, and roadside conflict zones.

Data-Driven Safety Audits: Traffic engineers can analyze stored digital records to optimize work zone layouts and systematically reduce risk over time.

This project reinforces The Ray’s ethos through innovative, multisector collaboration. Transportation modernization requires technological integration to enable data-driven decision-making that enhances public safety. Creating a “digital twin” of the on-the-ground environment makes real-time construction zone alerts a reality.

Unifying Data to Drive Collective Highway Safety

Louisiana’s success story is a powerful proof of concept, but safety cannot stop at state lines. To transform construction corridors nationwide, the industry must move past fragmented deployments and establish a unified approach for how contractor equipment, state agencies, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) exchange information.

To scale this momentum, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is leading the Connected Construction Data Alliance Transportation Pooled Fund study (Solicitation 1663). This multi-year effort unites state DOTs, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and industry stakeholders to establish standardized contractor-to-DOT data pipelines.

By presenting a unified voice to OEMs and telematics providers, the Alliance will develop standardized guidelines for equipment data exchange and comprehensive operational workflows for safety, material tracking, and quality assurance. Pooling resources nationally allows us to accelerate the transition toward an interoperable transportation network that prevents accidents from occurring in construction zones. Click here to Join the Pooled Fund Study

Originally published on Guiding Stars Health & Nutrition News

Using GLP-1 agonist medications can improve health outcomes for a growing number of conditions including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease. However, it’s no secret that lots of people take them primarily for weight loss. And now that GLP-1s have been around for a while, many people are wondering how to transition off of them. Once weight loss is achieved, then what happens? Let’s take a look at what you can expect and how to prepare for the conclusion of your GLP-1 journey and beyond.

Will I Gain Back the Weight?

Not necessarily, but don’t be surprised. Weight regain after a weight-reduction phase is not uncommon—no matter how you lost it. This is why you tend to hear that weight maintenance is tougher than weight loss. Research does show that after stopping GLP-1 medication, many people gain back over half the weight they lost. Naturally, the reasons for this vary. But since the medications work on various systems in the body, a few physiological changes are likely to occur:

• Metabolic adaptation. When you lose weight, your svelte self requires less food (fewer calories) than it did before. If you revert to your pre-GLP-1 amount of food, chances are some pounds will follow.
• Hunger signals return. Not feeling hungry and having less “food noise” while on the medication was helpful. But within a few weeks, both return—and with them, your appetite.

Find Ongoing Support

Long-term success depends in large part on what you do once you’re no longer taking a GLP-1 medication. You’re likely to lose some of the metabolic health benefits that a GLP-1 provides when you stop taking it. And you might find yourself falling back into old, unhealthy habits. Many people end up switching GLP-1 medications or restarting them when the weight starts coming back. Having a “support team,” consisting of your prescribing physician and a Registered Dietitian who works with GLP-1 patients, is recommended. You don’t need to go it alone.

Nutrition Priorities After GLP-1s

Finishing up with a GLP-1 isn’t the time to slack on your nutrition! Yes, you will need portion management, but overall good nutrition is equally important. Here’s what to focus on:

Nutrient-dense foods. Nutrient density is the amount of nutrients in a food relative to the amount of calories the food contains. Eating more nutrient-dense foods (lots of nutrients, lower in calories) is crucial when you’re eating less food overall. Also, research shows that people who lose a substantial amount of weight often have an increased risk of nutrient deficiencies. Guiding Stars’ foundational principle is to help people easily select the most nutrient-dense foods. So when you’re shopping for groceries, prioritize Star-earning foods.

Foods that keep you full. Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, and a smart choice for anyone dealing with a resurrected appetite. Aim to get some protein at every meal. Protein needs vary, but the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest we aim for a bit more than previous recommendations: 1.2 – 1.6g/kg body weight. For a 150-pound person, that amounts to between 82 – 109g of protein daily. Divided across three meals, that’s roughly 27 – 36g per meal. Fiber-rich foods are another filling choice, and there are plenty to choose from: whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. As an added bonus, they’re also nutrient-dense.

Water. GLP-1s often blunt the sense of thirst, so you may have become accustomed to not drinking as much while on the medication. Now that you’re done, your sense of thirst may kick in again. And when you consume more fiber, your body needs more water to avoid bowel problems. So now is the time to make friends with water again! It’s the beverage your body prefers, but other drinks work too, especially if they’re non-caloric. Check out the Guiding Stars-earning beverage options while shopping—there are plenty to choose from. You can generally let your thirst guide you as far as how much water and other fluids to drink. But creating some healthy hydration habits for yourself is also helpful.

About Guiding Stars

Guiding Stars is an objective, evidence-based, nutrition guidance program that evaluates foods and beverages to make nutritious choices simple. Products that meet transparent nutrition criteria earn a 1, 2, or 3 star rating for good, better, and best nutrition. Guiding Stars can be found in more than 2,000 grocery stores, in Circana’ Attribute Marketplace, and through the Guiding Stars Food Finder app.

Image by Freepik

CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 10, 2026 /3BL/ – Truist Foundation today announced the launch of its fourth Inspire Awards, a capacity-building grant program for nonprofit organizations across the markets Truist Bank serves. This year’s challenge aligns to Truist Foundation’s focus on creating career pathways to economic mobility and aims to upskill adult workers navigating rapid technological change in the era of artificial intelligence (AI).

The Inspire Awards Challenge is hosted in collaboration with Solve—an initiative of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), whose mission is to find and scale innovative solutions to global problems. From now until Aug. 7, 2026, qualifying nonprofits can submit applications through MIT Solve that answer this question:

How are nonprofits providing innovative direct services, training programs, and career navigation supports for adult workers in the age of AI? 

“Artificial intelligence is transforming the way people learn, work and prepare for the future. We want to elevate organizations that are helping workers adapt with confidence and gain access to opportunities that support long term stability,” said Lynette Bell, head of Truist Philanthropy and president of Truist Foundation. “The Inspire Awards program continues to spotlight nonprofits that are innovating to create meaningful change for individuals, families and communities as the world around them rapidly evolves.”

Truist Foundation and MIT Solve will provide a six-month support and development program for a cohort of six nonprofit finalists to help transform ideas into actions and help finalists strengthen and scale their solutions. The program includes a comprehensive needs assessment, learning and development modules to help refine business plans, access to a network of resource partners and coaches, and more.

At the conclusion of the support program, all finalists will receive a grant to help implement their project. The first-place nonprofit will receive a $250,000 grant, second place will receive a $150,000 grant, and a $25,000 grant will be given to each runner-up team. New this year, a Community Choice Award will earn one finalist an additional $75,000 grant—regardless of their status as a first-place, second-place or runner-up grant recipient.

“Nonprofits are helping workers adapt to a changing economy as AI reshapes every sector,” said Hala Hanna, executive director of MIT Solve. “Through our collaboration with Truist Foundation, we are elevating solutions that expand opportunity and ensure that workers across industries can thrive in the age of AI. The Inspire Awards creates a powerful space for innovators to test and scale ideas that meet the real needs of communities.”

The Truist Foundation Inspire Awards has become known as a space where nonprofits share and refine approaches that respond to community priorities around key economic mobility issues. Past finalists have contributed new ideas for career navigation, broadened access to training and credentialing, and helped workers pursue skills aligned with an evolving economy. The 2026-2027 program aims to build on this momentum by identifying organizations that are addressing the challenges and opportunities created by AI and emerging technologies.

To learn more or apply, click here.

About Truist Foundation

Truist Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation’s (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. The Foundation, an endowed private foundation established in 2020 whose operating budget is independent of Truist Financial Corporation, makes strategic investments in a wide variety of nonprofit organizations centered around two focus areas: building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses to ensure all communities have an equal opportunity to thrive. Embodying these focus areas are the Foundation’s leading initiatives—the Inspire Awards and Where It Starts. Learn more at TruistFoundation.org.

Media contact: Kristen Graham, Truist, media@truist.com

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We often think of agricultural waste, such as crop residues, forestry byproducts, or even manure, as an end-of-the-line byproduct. But what if it were actually a valuable resource? Enter Biochar. Heating organic matter in a low-oxygen environment through a process called pyrolysis creates a material, biochar, that acts as a fortress for soil health and a vault for carbon. It’s a simple, circular solution that helps our farms thrive.

Demand for biochar is surging as it gains recognition as both a powerful carbon removal tool and a solution for soil health. The market reflects this momentum, with a valuation reaching $1.7 billion in 2023 and a projected annual growth rate of over 13% through 2030 (Zion Market Research, 2025). This growth is primarily fueled by two sectors: the carbon market, where biochar accounts for roughly 90% of all durable carbon removal credits (BeZero, 2023), and the agricultural sector, where farmers are increasingly adopting it to boost soil fertility, improve water retention, and increase crop productivity.

The Cisco Foundation Regenerative Future Fund has supported two early-stage biochar companies: Applied Carbon in the United States and Poas Bioenergy in Costa Rica. These companies are aiming to optimize their climate impact and reduce carbon footprints of biochar operations by diversifying feedstocks and lowering production and transportation costs through decentralized production. Traditional biochar producers have typically avoided processing this type of residue because it is costly to move, store, and control.

Tackling Diverse Feedstocks for more Circular Agro-Economies

Rather than relying solely on conventional woody biomass, Applied Carbon and Poas are converting hard-to-recycle, high-volume agricultural residues into biochar using customized pyrolysis technologies. Applied Carbon tackles corn stover, wheat straw, sugarcane waste, and other agricultural residues that dominate agri-waste in the United States, while Poas focuses on the wet agri-residues of more tropical agricultural climates, such as those of coffee and pineapple.

Jason Aramburu, founder of Applied Carbon, elaborates, “Each year billions of tonnes of agricultural residue are wasted or underutilized in North America. With the right technology, these resources can be efficiently converted into value-added products like biochar and carbon removal credits.”

This not only addresses problematic waste streams but also helps to generate social and ecological co-benefits, such as habitat restoration and circular resource use.

Poas Founder Jose Alfaro shares, “We have spoken with other biochar producers who tell us they would never touch the wet agri-residues Poas does. However, these residues are the ones causing the most environmental harm and pain to the wallets of the producers. Worldwide there are more than 160 million tons of wet coffee and pineapple residues per year, the residues Poas currently utilizes, and they cause pests, odors, and methane emissions. So, it’s not just a differentiator for us, it’s a multiplier for the impact we can have.”

Decentralizing Production for Amplified Impact

Unlike large, centralized facilities, flexible, decentralized, and smaller systems like those deployed in both Applied Carbon and Poas can operate on farms, forestry operations, or remote locations, enabling the conversion of local agricultural residues and invasive plant species into valuable biochar on-site. This not only reduces logistical challenges and costs but also makes biochar production accessible to smallholder and resource-limited farmers worldwide.

According to Applied Carbon, their “…decentralized operation is critical to reducing the cost of carbon dioxide removal and biochar production in North America. With the wide geographic scope of agriculture in the United States, distributed, modular solutions are optimal for scale.”

Agriculture remains the dominant end market for biochar. These technologies empower communities to enhance soil fertility, boost crop yields, and sequester carbon using available resources, all while promoting circular economies and minimizing waste. By decentralizing production, mobile and modular systems are helping to unlock new opportunities for scalable impact in agricultural landscapes.

For example, Poas’s first commercial pilot is at a coffee mill in Costa Rica, where over 900 smallholder farmers deliver their product. “Every dollar Poas saves the mill in waste management by converting their residues to biochar goes directly to the bottom line of their farmers,” Jose says. “Furthermore, it gives us a channel to advertise the benefits biochar can have on their soils and a ready-made distribution center.”

As we look to the future, the next frontier for biochar lies not just in carbon credits, but in a world of uncharted opportunities — transforming waste, protecting water, and building more resilient communities.

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