Tag: 3BL

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

Click here or watch Grant’s Story above. 

Grant Gossling was a vibrant child with a “cheeser” smile that he shared with everyone who was in his orbit. But in a moment, the smile turned to tears — an immediate signal that something was wrong.

Grant was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered his cancer and immediately referred him to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center for treatment.

As the hospital became a new normal for the Gossling family, Grant’s “cheeser” smile remained, and he carried the same vibrant energy throughout his cancer journey.

“They do such a magnificent job of taking the attention off the fact that these kids are going through treatment and just giving them an opportunity to smile, to be kids,” said Grant’s father, Michael Gossling.

“They not only care for your child and their health needs and getting them the best treatment possible — they’re caring for their hearts and the whole heart of your family,” Grant’s mother, June, added.

Grant sadly passed away at just 4 years old, and to honor his precious life and those who provided care during his journey, his family wanted to give back to the community that poured so much into them. As they share his story, they hope his legacy will inspire others to help children facing cancer in the future.

How you can help make a difference

In honor of Children’s Hospital Week April 8-11, consider making a donation to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center or visiting the Children’s Miracle Network website to find others ways of giving back. Your gift can help fund research, treatments, equipment and other resources that help young patients and families — like the Gosslings — move through their own cancer journeys.

Ancestry®, the global leader in family history, published its third annual Impact Report, outlining the company’s corporate responsibility approach and highlighting progress in three core areas: ethical business practices; diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); and community impact. Aligned with Ancestry’s mission to empower journeys of personal discovery to enrich lives, the company is committed to enhancing its products and leveraging its resources to build a more connected, resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.

“We recognize that the actions we take today have a profound impact on future generations, and we are committed to ensuring we operate our business in a manner that is good for both people and the planet,” said Deborah Liu, Ancestry President and CEO. “While we are proud of our progress, we know more work is ahead. We remain steadfast in ensuring our corporate responsibility efforts not only meet but exceed the goals outlined in our report.” 

Building on the goals set in the previous two annual reports, the 2023 Impact Report reaffirms Ancestry’s commitment to transparent, equitable, and inclusive business practices, including:

Launched a new AncestryDNA kit made of recycled materials to cut waste-to-landfill.Reduced carbon emissions by 21% across Ancestry’s scope 1, 2, and largest scope 3 contributors.Embarked on our second HistoryMakers National College Tour and Scholarship at four HBCUs, TCUs, and HSIs across the United States.Added four new DNA ethnicity regions and 910 new DNA communities to serve more diverse customers globally.Made 3.3M records available for free as part of Ancestry’s $3M pledge through 2025 to preserve history that is at-risk of being forgotten or overlooked.Provided 10.5M+ students across five countries access to Ancestry records through AncestryClassroom at no cost, surpassing the 2025 target.

To read the full report, view Ancestry’s SASB metrics and UN SDG goals, and learn more about the key initiatives within each impact area, visit https://www.ancestry.com/corporate/annual-impact-report.

About Ancestry
Ancestry®, the global leader in family history, empowers journeys of personal discovery to enrich lives. With our unparalleled collection of more than 60 billion records, over 3 million subscribers and over 25 million people in our growing DNA network, customers can discover their family story and gain a new level of understanding about their lives. Over the past 40 years, we’ve built trusted relationships with millions of people who have chosen us as the platform for discovering, preserving and sharing the most important information about themselves and their families. 

Media contact:
mediarelations@ancestry.com

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Authored by Mallory Thomas and Brianna Hardy

At the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Great Audit Minds (GAM) conference, Baker Tilly risk advisory partner Mallory Thomas discusses the business impacts of climate-related risk and reporting requirements for environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability.

ESG and sustainability-related pressures 

ESG and sustainability-related regulations ramp up the pressures many organizations face today. Regulations such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), California Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, Federal Supplier Climate Risks and Resilience Proposed Rule, and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) have resulted in new reporting requirements and processes that organizations are only now beginning to address.

Importance of disclosure 

Whether companies and organizations are subject to ESG and sustainability-related regulations or not, disclosure is important for both internal and external stakeholders. ESG and sustainability-related disclosures assist organizations in identifying and managing risk, fostering transparency and accountability throughout the organization, ensuring compliance with regulations and supplier code of conducts and enhancing the organization’s positioning in the market.

Differentiating regulatory requirements 

Two ESG and sustainability frameworks are emerging as the leaders for disclosure guidance, which include the greenhouse gas (GHG) protocol and Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). These frameworks assist organizations in gathering the appropriate data and information that various stakeholders request.

For companies subject to the SEC’s rules for climate-related disclosures, adherence to the TCFD will aid in complying with the non-financial statement disclosures (Regulation S-K) but will fall short in complying with the financial statement disclosures (Regulation S-X).

Another key component of the SEC’s rules for climate-related disclosures is GHG emissions reporting. Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions reporting is required for specific publicly listed companies under the SEC ruling. However, for those companies and organizations not subject to the SEC rules, GHG emissions will likely become a disclosure that various stakeholders are inquiring about, if they haven’t already.

Preparing for sustainability compliance 

Conducting a climate risk assessment is a great next step for any organization ready to move forward with its disclosures, whether subject to the SEC’s rules for climate-related disclosures or not. This assessment allows an organization to systematically identify, evaluate and quantify climate-related risks. The internal audit function has the skills, knowledge and experience to assist with the development and enhancement of governance and risk identification processes, quantification of potential impacts and strategies for risk management. As a leading practice, climate risk assessments should be integrated into the organization’s enterprise risk management processes to ensure the identification, evaluation and quantification of risks is coherent and streamlined.

Get started now 

Remember that reporting on ESG and sustainability is a journey and will yield continuous improvement year over year. For that reason, it is important for organizations to get started now to identify the data sources, develop the reporting processes and identify and solve the gaps and pain points. With each reporting cycle, companies and organizations learn more about their internal processes and their reporting requirements, further maturing their disclosures.

Connect with an ESG specialist at Baker Tilly.

CLEVELAND, April 10, 2024 /3BL/ – KeyBank (NYSE: KEY) has earned its 11th consecutive “Outstanding” rating from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) on its most recent Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) exam. KeyBank has maintained a rating of “Outstanding” from the OCC for 11 consecutive review periods since the Act’s passage in 1977.

“KeyBank’s purpose is to help our clients and communities thrive. Through lending, investing, philanthropy, and volunteerism, we work together to serve our neighbors and revitalize our neighborhoods,” said Chris Gorman, KeyCorp Chairman and CEO. “Our long record of ‘Outstanding’ CRA ratings is a testament to our enduring commitment to being both a responsible bank and responsible citizen. As we approach our 200th anniversary, we look forward to continuing to work with our clients and within our communities to improve access and opportunity for all.”

“This most recent ‘Outstanding’ rating reflects the work done by our teammates and partners in the communities we serve,” said Eric Fiala, KeyBank’s Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer. “We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to working together to continue to make impactful investments in the places we work and call home.”

KeyBank’s recent exam period covered January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2021. Significant investments to support low-to-moderate income (LMI) communities during the exam period include:

KeyBank’s quick response to support both clients and communities through the pandemic was highlighted in the rating decision. In 2020 and 2021, KeyBank processed 69,000 loans through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), providing more than $11.2 billion in critical funding to small and mid-size businesses.KeyBank invested over $900 million in tax credits and provided $7.5 billion in loans to support affordable housing and Community Development Financial Institutions, fostering economic growth throughout the communities we serve.KeyBank awarded more than $43 million in grants in transformative philanthropy to support stronger communities and improve the quality of life for our neighbors and neighborhoods.

For more information about KeyBank’s community investments, visit our corporate responsibility page: https://www.key.com/about/corporate-responsibility/cr-overview.html.

ABOUT KEYBANK

KeyBank’s roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, KeyCorp is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $188 billion at December 31, 2023.

Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank is Member FDIC.

Brands are exploring key questions: What sustainability factors do consumers prioritize? In what ways can brands leverage sector-wide collaboration for sustainability? And, what innovations can we expect in the future?

We invite you to join us for Network Effect: Mondelez on May 2nd from 9 to 11:00 a.m. as we hear from brands including The Food Institute, Griffith Foods, Kantar, Barilla and others to discuss innovative and collaborative solutions to the biggest challenges facing people and the planet today.

Explore the agenda:

What Today’s Consumers Want from CPG Brands

Consumers say they’re interested in sustainable products and brands. Even in a tough economy, many are even willing to pay more for them. But how do consumers determine which products are sustainable, and what are they looking for from today’s brands? In this conversation moderated by Nick Graham, SVP Global Head of Insights & Analytics at Mondelez, we’ll take a closer look at what consumers are saying. We’ll unpack some key insights from Mondelez’s fifth annual State of Snacking Report, and we’ll hear from leaders at Kantar about the consultancy’s recent research around consumer behavior. Brian Choi, Director of The Food Institute, will bring additional context around how food brands can continue to reach consumers in an increasingly challenging economic environment.

How CPG Brands Can Be Positive Partners for Health

As consumers become more health conscious, today’s food brands are challenged to become positive partners in helping people live healthier and more mindful lifestyles. But how can brands rise to the occasion? In this conversation, we’ll hear from brand leaders and registered dieticians about what consumers want and need when it comes to health and how brands are responding.

Meeting Consumer Demand for Sustainability

How can brands meet the demand for sustainable products while empowering their customers to create positive change? Susanne Mathis, Senior Director of Sustainability at Mondelez, will speak to how the company is responding, as well as sector-wide collaboration in the CPG industry. Simonne DuBois, director of foresight and innovation at Kantar, will join the conversation to discuss how brands can leverage behavioral science to empower consumers to close the “say/do gap” on sustainable behavior change.

Innovating for the future of the CPG sector

Today’s consumers are seeking different options than what was popular in the past. Meanwhile, companies in the global food system are challenged to feed more people on less land under increasing threats of climate change. All of this adds up to one thing: a massive need for innovation around the future of food. In this conversation, we’ll hear from industry innovators about their fresh new ideas to navigate macroeconomic trends while serving consumers with the cutting-edge products they’re looking for.

Be part of the conversation and register today at no cost.

TAMPA, Fla., April 10, 2024 /3BL/ – Crown Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CCK) (Crown) (www.crowncork.com) has received the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Chain of Custody (CoC) Standard V2 (2022) Certification for its Mexican operations—the latest addition to a series of responsible sourcing credentials around the globe. By monitoring materials into their downstream stages, the certification aims to verify whether organizations maintain due diligence as their products move throughout their complete life cycles. For Crown, this achievement underscores a commitment to transparency and demonstrates a focus on product stewardship as part of the Company’s Twentyby30™ sustainability program.

The ASI CoC Standard V2 applies to the production of beverage cans, can ends and ROPP closures at Crown Mexico facilities, including Crown Ensenada, Crown Guadalajara, Crown Toluca, Crown Latas Monterrey, Crown Cierres Monterrey and its headquarters in Monterrey, Mexico. Comprising a collective annual production capacity of 6.85 billion beverage cans, 6.7 billion can ends and 400 million ROPP closures, the facilities originally received Performance Standard V2 (2017) in January 2022.

“Across all of our facilities in Mexico, we are mindful of the materials we utilize and how our products make their way through the market, as we understand our responsibility extends beyond our own manufacturing lines,” said Eduardo Argueta, President of Crown Mexico. “We are honored that ASI has verified our practices for alignment with the CoC Standard, as we always aim to meet the industry’s highest expectations for ethics and corporate stewardship.”

Serving as an extension to the ASI Performance Standard, the CoC Standard sets requirements for material that is produced and processed through the value chain into diverse downstream sectors. The implementation of the ASI CoC Standard links verified practices at successive steps of the supply chain – certified under the ASI Performance Standard – to the products produced by ASI Certified Entities. The CoC Standard also confirms that appropriate policies and due diligence process are in place to identify and address critical issues, such as corruption, human rights abuses, materials originating from conflict-affected and high-risk areas in the supply chain and support responsible sourcing.

“It is no longer enough to simply share material origins,” said John Rost, Senior Vice President – Crown Technology, Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at Crown. “As a corporation with a global presence, we must do our part to establish thorough precautionary measures up and down our value chain—and to be transparent about the steps we are taking to protect the environment, communities and employees as we work to meet consumer demand. Our latest ASI certification shows we are being hypervigilant and are making the effort to minimize our impact at every stage.”

Prior to achieving the ASI CoC Standard V2, Crown Mexico was verified with the ASI Performance Standard. The Company also previously received verification in several other countries, including Brazil, Colombia and Thailand, and continues to pursue verification in other regions across its global footprint.

ASI is a global, multi-stakeholder, non-profit standards and certification organization which works to maximize the contribution of aluminum to a sustainable society. The independent, third-party audit of Crown’s Mexican facilities was carried out by DNV Business Assurance Services UK Ltd.

To learn more about Crown’s efforts around responsible material sourcing and its comprehensive Twentyby30™ sustainability program, visit crowncork.com/sustainability.

About Crown Holdings, Inc.

Crown Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a leading global supplier of rigid packaging products to consumer marketing companies, as well as transit and protective packaging products, equipment and services to a broad range of end markets. World headquarters are located in Tampa, Florida. For more information, visit www.crowncork.com.

For editorial inquiries: Emily Hogan, Senior Account Executive, FINN Partners; Tel: (630) 248-5232; Email: emily.hogan@finnpartners.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Except for historical information, all other information in this press release consists of forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities law. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the statements made in this release or the actual results of operations or financial condition of the Company to differ are discussed under the caption “Forward Looking Statements” in the Company’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2023 and in subsequent filings. The Company does not intend to review or revise any particular forward-looking statement in light of future events.

View original content here.

SOURCE Crown Holdings, Inc.

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Claire Miller, a first-year diesel technician apprentice at dealership On-Trac Ag in Orange (dealer for New Holland, a brand of CNH), is not just the only woman on her workshop floor, but the first apprentice in 2024 to have secured herself the ultimate Supercars experience.

In recognition of her emerging talent, the CNH brand rewarded Claire with an exclusive pit crew experience at this year’s Bathurst 500—where the RedBull Ampol team celebrated their first win of the season.

“It was an unreal experience being in the pitstop and seeing the car come in and out within six seconds. To see what it takes in a high-pressure space was a standout,” Claire said.

“Bathurst 500 certainly gave me an appreciation for my trade.”

Claire joined New Holland as an apprentice following a stint in the On-Trac workshop for high school work experience where she fell in love with the work.

“As a young woman in the industry, I appreciate that my team don’t treat me any differently and have helped me overcome any doubts about my success,” Claire said.

The agriculture industry is firmly in Claire’s sights, sharing that her goal is to move ‘up north’ and buy a big property for herself.

It’s a dream that Claire shares with Dalby-based Catherine Baker, who runs a 1750-hectare farm with her husband, growing wheat, barley, and sorghum.

Despite the ex-teacher having grown up on her family’s farm, she only found her passion for agriculture after the last of her children went to boarding school.

“I had to refocus my energies and show up on the farm. Although there are days I miss the routine of school, I didn’t realise how much I missed the farm,” Catherine said.

“I didn’t really grow up driving the tractors—more so steering them while being towed—so I have had to get confident and comfortable quickly to help my husband,”

“I’ve driven during planting and harvesting now, and I am getting up to snuff. Our newest tractor will definitely be the next piece in the puzzle for me.”

Last February, Catherine and her husband took delivery of New Holland’s new T7 Heavy Duty, equipped with Precision Land Management (PLM).

“What has made me most excited about the T7 HD is the PLM component, as well as ability for the machine to direct and turn itself. It means I can easily pick up from where my husband left off and take greater ownership over tasks,” Catherine said.

Bruce Healy, General Manager of New Holland Agriculture ANZ acknowledges the contribution of women to the agriculture sector and the importance of promoting and encouraging women to take on opportunities within our industry.

“Machinery doesn’t know gender. We’re always called to invest in and accelerate progress for women—and there is no better industry than agriculture in which to do this.

“New Holland is committed to setting a standard of gender diversity across the industry, in line with the National Farmer’s Federation’s (NFF) goal of doubling the number of women in agriculture’s leadership positions by 2030.”

CNH has been committed to supporting women like Claire and Catherine to find their feet in the agriculture industry, championing gender diversity in agriculture and fostering more pathways for greater representation.

HOUSTON, April 9, 2024 /3BL/ – Green Mountain Energy Earth Day at Discovery Green returns to one of Houston’s most sustainable parks on Saturday, April 20 from 12-5 p.m. Held in partnership with Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, Green Mountain Energy Earth Day celebrates environmental stewardship and sustainability through an afternoon of family-friendly, arts-centric programming.

Attendees will enjoy an array of activities – from Scrapdaddy Circus, a showcase of Mark “Scrapdaddy” Bradford’s themed Art Cars and interactive solar and wind power sculptures, to documentary screenings and an electric car petting zoo. Houston artists Donkeeboy and Donkeemom will perform a “paint off, simultaneously creating works live in front of an audience. The audience will vote for their favorite. Chalk artists will work on masterpieces throughout the day. Houston Public Works’ popular Water Works Festival will be at the event with fun opportunities for visitors to learn about the care and management of Houston’s water resources.

Additionally, over 60 exhibitors, including Green Mountain Energy, the Bayou Preservation Association, Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center and Wildlife Habitat Federation, will have interactive and educational activities for guests. University of Houston-Downtown students will display their art and graphic design to tell the story of Houston’s bayous and the poetry of water.

Green Mountain Energy is a longtime supporter and the official energy provider of Discovery Green, providing the park with 100 percent clean, renewable energy. Since 1997, Green Mountain Energy customers have avoided 100 billion pounds of carbon dioxide, which is the equivalent of planting more than 12 million new trees.

“As the leading renewable energy provider in Texas, we are proud to partner with Discovery Green Conservancy for this year’s Earth Day celebration,” said Mark Parsons, vice president, Green Mountain Energy. “Our top priority is taking care of the environment, so Green Mountain Energy Earth Day is an opportunity to educate Houstonians that even the smallest changes can have a positive, lasting impact on our planet.”

Green Mountain Energy Earth Day aims to be a zero-waste event. Guests are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles. Attendees can visit one of five kiosks throughout the park, where University of Houston-Downtown volunteers will sort through recyclable and compostable items.

For more information on Green Mountain Energy Earth Day at Discovery Green and to learn more about exhibitor opportunities, please visit discoverygreen.com/earthday.

ACTIVITIES

Houston Electric Vehicle Association’s Electric Car Petting Zoo

From Tesla Cybertrucks to Rivian adventure vehicles, look under the hood and rub your hands over the steering wheel of Houston’s coolest electric vehicles.

Recycled Music

Houston band Jukebox Trainwreck takes crowd requests to turn familiar and beloved tunes into their own creations with chaotic, amusing and awe-inspiring speed.

PERFORMANCES

Calmecac Indigenous Arts Dancers will perform an opening ceremony for the Earth Day celebrations. Indigenous peoples comprise less than 5 percent of the world population but protect 80 percent of the Earth’s biodiversity. This performance is a call to protect the environment and bring awareness to the good stewardship of a sustainable planet.

Lee’s Golden Dragons will perform a traditional Chinese “dragon dance.” While often associated with Lunar New Year, dragon dances are used to bless ceremonies. In Chinese folk, Buddhist and Taoist beliefs, dragons were celebrated as rain gods and beseeched to bring rain.

Donkeeboy and Donkeemom will perform a live “paint off.” The Houston artists will create their masterpieces in front of a live audience on the Anheuser-Busch stage. Visitors will then vote for their favorite work of art.

ART

Scrapdaddy Circus presented in partnership with Houston First

Houston-based artist Mark “Scrapdaddy” Bradford will display six of his one-of-a-kind art cars and 25 interactive solar and wind power sculptures. Also on display will be two pieces from Comedy Central’s Battle Bots. Bradford’s work is a testament to the power of creativity to reform discarded items into works of art. An artist Q&A is scheduled for 2 p.m. on the main stage.

Bayou at y.our doorstep

Under the guidance of Professor Natacha Poggio, MFA, University of Houston-Downtown graphic design students visualize the significant environmental, emotional, and developmental roles played by Houston’s bayous in fostering community well-being.

Envisioning Water

University of Houston-Downtown students led by professors Natacha Poggio, MFA (graphic design) and Laura Cesarco Eglin, MFA, Ph.D. (creative writing), collaborate to emphasize a profound dialog between poetry and illustration. The graphic design students bring to life poems penned by creative writing students centered on the themes of water and environmental concerns.

DOCUMENTARY SHORTS

The Place Man (2024, 19 minutes)

Meet the man whose efforts helped launch not only the first Earth Day – but whose ideas also formed the founding principles for Discovery Green’s creation. Fred Kent devoted his life to creating public spaces for people to enjoy. Kent’s passion for public spaces that foster social connection will inspire you to create solutions for the challenges of today.

There’s Something in the Water (2020, 8 minutes)

Caddo Lake is the only natural lake in Texas, but its delicate ecosystem is threatened by a seemingly unstoppable invasive species of floating fern: Giant Salvinia. There’s Something in the Water features interviews with people who live and work on the lake, demonstrating the damage that has been caused, and how everyone can work together to try and fix it.

Interruption: The Magpies and Peacocks Story (2022, 11 minutes)

Magpies and Peacocks is the nation’s only nonprofit design house dedicated to the collection and sustainable reuse of post-consumer clothing, scrap textiles and accessories diverted from landfill. Its mission is to disrupt the cycle of waste in the fashion industry and mitigate its enormous environmental and social impact.

EXHIBITORS 

Bayou Preservation Association 

Informing the public about water quality, watershed health and the importance of removing non-recyclable materials from the waste stream.

Electrochemical Safety Research Institute 

Educating the community on how to safely dispose of and recycle lithium-ion batteries.

Green Education Foundation 

Teaching the community about recycling and repurposing items to keep things from the landfill.

Green Mountain Energy 

Showing home and business owners how renewable energy can help offset carbon emissions.

Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center 

Using cultural trinkets, wet specimens, taxidermic bats, informational handouts and more to teach individuals about bats found in and around Houston.

Leadership Houston Inc 

Promoting the use of reusable water bottles in an effort to limit the use of plastic water bottles that add to pollution and waste.

Whole Earth Offsets 

Informing the community about carbon offsets during a fireside chat and through an interactive puzzle for kids.

Wildlife Habitat Federation

A rainfall simulator will demonstrate how different surfaces affect the absorption of rainfall, showing the importance of grassland habitat.

Discovery Green is located at 1500 McKinney St. (Houston, TX 77010). Events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. All events are subject to change. Please refer to discoverygreen.com for updates.

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ABOUT DISCOVERY GREEN®

Discovery Green® is a highly acclaimed 12-acre park created by a public-private partnership between the City of Houston and the nonprofit Discovery Green Conservancy in downtown Houston, Texas. Since opening in April 2008, the park has welcomed more than 20 million visitors. Discovery Green® features sprawling lawns, a one-acre lake, an interactive fountain, a playground, public art installations, gardens and an allée of century-old live oaks. The Discovery Green Conservancy works with hundreds of programming partners to present artistic, musical, educational, family-friendly and health-focused events each year, most of which are presented free to the public. The park also features two on-site restaurants, the award-winning destination restaurant The Grove and the fast-casual The Lake House, providing visitors with an array of dining options. As a nonprofit organization, the Conservancy raises all the funds needed for the programming that Houstonians enjoy. For more information, please visit https://www.discoverygreen.com. Arts programming is made possible in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.

ABOUT GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGY COMPANY

Green Mountain Energy is the nation’s longest serving renewable energy retailer, on a mission to inspire hope and motivate action through the use of clean energy. Green Mountain offers consumers and businesses the choice of cleaner electricity plans from renewable sources, as well as a variety of carbon offset products and sustainable solutions for businesses. Collectively, Green Mountain Energy customers have helped avoid more than 107 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emissions to date. Green Mountain is lighting the path to a brighter future by supporting the sustainable projects of nonprofits through our charitable program, Green Mountain Energy Sun Club. To learn more, visit greenmountainenergy.com.

ABOUT CITIZENS’ ENVIRONMENTAL COALITION

Since 1971, CEC has been connecting people with each other and with hundreds of organizations doing environmental work and advocacy in the Houston / Gulf Coast region. CEC shares, supports, and enhances their efforts and environmental advocacy. CEC fosters and strengthens this community through publications that give a balanced perspective on environmental issues and through events that enhance understanding, including the Wild About Houston Green Film Festival and Earth Day Houston. cechouston.org

ABOUT HOUSTON PUBLIC WORKS

Houston Public Works (www.HoustonPublicWorks.org) is the largest and most diverse public works organization in the country, responsible for creating a strong foundation for Houston to thrive. Houston Public Works is responsible for streets and drainage, production and distribution of water, collection, and treatment of wastewater, and permitting and regulation of public and private construction covering a 671-square mile service area. Houston Public Works is accredited by the American Public Works Association. Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @HouPublicWorks

SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook: @DiscoveryGreenHouston
X (formerly Twitter): @DiscoveryGreen
Instagram: @DiscoveryGreen

Discovery Green. Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off.

Gildan, a leading apparel manufacturer, is pleased to share that it has donated advanced surgical equipment, valued at over U.S. $230,000, to the newly renovated pediatric operating room at the Mario Catarino Rivas regional hospital (HMCR) today, supporting children in northern and western Honduras who have been awaiting surgery. This donation contributes to making healthcare more accessible to children and communities in Honduras.

Gildan committed to this in-kind investment in collaboration with the Honduran Pediatric Association, Valle de Sula Chapter (APHCVS), who identified the urgent need for surgeries among hundreds of Honduran children. The donated equipment will benefit children requiring surgery, and within its first six months of use, is expected to help reduce Catarino Rivas hospital’s backlog of operations by 50%.

With the new equipment in place, the pediatric operating room is now equipped to treat infants weighing less than one pound, as well as children of any age in need of surgery, including those requiring highly complex, precise, or delicate procedures across various pediatric specialties such as urology, pulmonology, otolaryngology, and endoscopy.

The equipment donated includes:

An anesthesia machine featuring highly specialized computerized systems designed to deliver oxygen, anesthesia, and other gases safely, tailored to the child’s age, weight, and height. The machine includes a carbon dioxide detector to monitor intubation, a gas delivery mechanism that effectively ventilates the patient similar to what is done in an intensive care unit; a neuromuscular relationship monitor to facilitate precise medication; and a sedation level monitor to indicate the depth of anesthesia, thus safeguarding the patient’s brain. These features assist surgeons in making informed decisions during surgery, contributing to successful outcomes.A pediatric stretcher designed with flexibility and articulation to accommodate children of any age comfortably, correctly, and safely during surgical interventions.A Holmium laser utilizing minimally invasive light energy, enabling surgeons to perform more precise and delicate surgeries without causing thermal damage to nearby tissues. This technology ensures more accurate surgeries with fewer postoperative complications.

“Gildan is committed to supporting the health and well-being of Honduran children,” says Claudia Sandoval, Vice-President, Global Social Compliance and Environmental Affairs at Gildan. “Thanks to this donation, more families, especially from the regions of Cortés, Comayagua, Copán, Lempira, Colón, Atlántida, Santa Bárbara, Ocotepeque, and Intibucá, have access to the appropriate pediatric surgical infrastructure that they urgently need.”

“This donation constitutes an important contribution to child medical care in Honduras,” says Dr. Maynor Mata, President of APHCVS. “If performed in private hospitals, these surgeries could cost patients from U.S. $2,000 to U.S. $12,000. Now at Catarino Rivas, these operations are offered free of charge. Moreover, we look forward to using the new equipment to train the next generation of doctors in anesthesia and pediatric surgery, strengthening our healthcare system and securing the well-being of our future generations.”

“Our donation to Mario Catarino Rivas Hospital underscores our commitment to improving access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, particularly children. We are privileged to partner with esteemed organizations like the Honduran Pediatric Association to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need,” shared Benito Masi, President, Manufacturing at Gildan

This donation is part of Gildan’s Next Generation ESG strategy, where the Company has committed to donate 1% of its pre-tax earnings towards purposeful community-driven projects by 2026. This donation marks an important step in Gildan’s journey to bringing this goal to fruition and creating meaningful, long-term value in the regions where the Company operates.

For more information about Gildan’s respect for communities, click here.

Gildan, a leading apparel manufacturer, is pleased to share that it has donated advanced surgical equipment, valued at over U.S. $230,000, to the newly renovated pediatric operating room at the Mario Catarino Rivas regional hospital (HMCR) today, supporting children in northern and western Honduras who have been awaiting surgery. This donation contributes to making healthcare more accessible to children and communities in Honduras.

Gildan committed to this in-kind investment in collaboration with the Honduran Pediatric Association, Valle de Sula Chapter (APHCVS), who identified the urgent need for surgeries among hundreds of Honduran children. The donated equipment will benefit children requiring surgery, and within its first six months of use, is expected to help reduce Catarino Rivas hospital’s backlog of operations by 50%.

With the new equipment in place, the pediatric operating room is now equipped to treat infants weighing less than one pound, as well as children of any age in need of surgery, including those requiring highly complex, precise, or delicate procedures across various pediatric specialties such as urology, pulmonology, otolaryngology, and endoscopy.

The equipment donated includes:

An anesthesia machine featuring highly specialized computerized systems designed to deliver oxygen, anesthesia, and other gases safely, tailored to the child’s age, weight, and height. The machine includes a carbon dioxide detector to monitor intubation, a gas delivery mechanism that effectively ventilates the patient similar to what is done in an intensive care unit; a neuromuscular relationship monitor to facilitate precise medication; and a sedation level monitor to indicate the depth of anesthesia, thus safeguarding the patient’s brain. These features assist surgeons in making informed decisions during surgery, contributing to successful outcomes.A pediatric stretcher designed with flexibility and articulation to accommodate children of any age comfortably, correctly, and safely during surgical interventions.A Holmium laser utilizing minimally invasive light energy, enabling surgeons to perform more precise and delicate surgeries without causing thermal damage to nearby tissues. This technology ensures more accurate surgeries with fewer postoperative complications.

“Gildan is committed to supporting the health and well-being of Honduran children,” says Claudia Sandoval, Vice-President, Global Social Compliance and Environmental Affairs at Gildan. “Thanks to this donation, more families, especially from the regions of Cortés, Comayagua, Copán, Lempira, Colón, Atlántida, Santa Bárbara, Ocotepeque, and Intibucá, have access to the appropriate pediatric surgical infrastructure that they urgently need.”

“This donation constitutes an important contribution to child medical care in Honduras,” says Dr. Maynor Mata, President of APHCVS. “If performed in private hospitals, these surgeries could cost patients from U.S. $2,000 to U.S. $12,000. Now at Catarino Rivas, these operations are offered free of charge. Moreover, we look forward to using the new equipment to train the next generation of doctors in anesthesia and pediatric surgery, strengthening our healthcare system and securing the well-being of our future generations.”

“Our donation to Mario Catarino Rivas Hospital underscores our commitment to improving access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, particularly children. We are privileged to partner with esteemed organizations like the Honduran Pediatric Association to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need,” shared Benito Masi, President, Manufacturing at Gildan

This donation is part of Gildan’s Next Generation ESG strategy, where the Company has committed to donate 1% of its pre-tax earnings towards purposeful community-driven projects by 2026. This donation marks an important step in Gildan’s journey to bringing this goal to fruition and creating meaningful, long-term value in the regions where the Company operates.

For more information about Gildan’s respect for communities, click here.