Tag: 3BL

Habitat for Humanity International announced that Whirlpool Corporation has surpassed the $125 million in-kind donated product milestone to Habitat. Over the lifetime of the relationship, which began in 1999, Whirlpool Corp. has donated more than 241,000 major home appliances to nearly 197,000 Habitat households across the U.S.

“Our long-standing relationship with Habitat for Humanity fits perfectly with our global focus on helping ensure everyone can have a place to live that is comfortable and nurturing,” said Pam Klyn, executive vice president of corporate relations and sustainability for Whirlpool Corporation. “It’s an honor and a privilege to help support the Habitat for Humanity mission and especially to work together on enhanced programs with a focus on energy efficient appliances which aligns perfectly with Whirlpool Corporation’s sustainability efforts.”

According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Low-Income Energy Affordability Data (LEAD) Tool, the national average energy burden for low-income households is 8.6%, nearly three times higher than for non-low-income households which is estimated at 3%. Through their relationship, Habitat and Whirlpool Corp. are working together to create energy efficient and sustainable housing solutions in partnership with low-income families. Through the BuildBetter with Whirlpool initiative, more than 250 climate-resilient and energy efficient homes are being built across the U.S.

In 2021, Habitat conducted a study to estimate Habitat homeowners’ total energy savings and associated cost-savings generated by Whirlpool appliance donations. Across the full Habitat U.S. network, Whirlpool products donated between 2018 and 2020 generated 1.8 million kWh in energy savings per year and 16 million kWh in energy savings over the lifetime of the appliances. This created electric bill savings of $208,000 per year for a total of $1.8 million over the lifetime of the appliances.

“Time and time again over the past 24 years, Whirlpool has demonstrated a commitment that goes above and beyond partnership expectations,” said Tolli Love, chief development officer at Habitat for Humanity International. “Whirlpool’s sustained support has created meaningful change for nearly 200,000 families around the world. Adding to their impact, Whirlpool launched BuildBetter with Whirlpool in 2021, with a goal of building homes that are energy-efficient, resilient and sustainable, helping ensure they are affordable generation after generation. We are proud to work alongside Whirlpool and cannot wait to see what we continue to build together.”

Since 1999, Whirlpool Corporation has supported Habitat for Humanity’s work to build affordable homes and communities in partnership with more than 1 million families across 45 countries. In addition to financial and product donations, Whirlpool currently supports Habitat’s BuildBetter with Whirlpool program, the Cost of Home national advocacy campaign and the Latin American and Caribbean Housing Forum. Whirlpool employees around the globe participate in builds.

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LINCOLN, Neb., November 13, 2023 /3BL/ – Consumers say a corporation’s commitment to sustainability efforts helps inform their buying decisions. According to a new national survey, 71% of U.S. adults say they’re more loyal to companies that take an active role in protecting the environment. The nationwide survey was conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of the Arbor Day Foundation. More than 2,000 adults were asked several questions about corporate responsibility and their perception of sustainability practices.

Survey results indicated younger consumers are even more inclined to be guided by their environmental values. About 68% of Americans between the ages of 18-34 said they were willing to pay more for products from companies that have a strong stance on sustainability and climate change, compared to 52% of those ages 35+.

“These results shed light on the priorities of American consumers and there’s a strong consensus people want corporations to take a proactive approach to climate action,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Corporations have the power and resources to take environmental initiatives to the next level and, clearly, people are eager to see companies step up.”

Additionally, the survey revealed that nearly four in five Americans believe corporations have an obligation to address climate change and that right now is the time for everyone to work collaboratively to address critical climate issues (both 79%). The world’s leading environmental experts agree there has never been a more important time to escalate work to reduce the effects of climate change. The survey results also showed 82% of Americans believe corporations have a responsibility to reduce and offset their carbon emissions.

A majority of Americans want companies to contribute to their communities, with about four in five (81%) agreeing corporations have a duty to give back to the communities they do business in.

Survey Method:

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Arbor Day Foundation from September 28 – October 2, 2023 among 2,053 U.S. adults ages 18 and older. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.7 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact jputney@arborday.org.

About the Arbor Day Foundation

Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees. Together with our partners, we have helped plant more than 500 million trees in neighborhoods, communities, cities and forests throughout the world. Our vision is to lead toward a world where trees are used to solve issues critical to survival. Through our members, partners and programs, the Arbor Day Foundation inspires people across the globe to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. More information is available at arborday.org.

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November 10, 2023 /3BL/ – Today Bath & Body Works announces its inclusion on Newsweek’s ranking of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Veterans. 

In partnership with market data research firm Plant-A Insights, Newsweek evaluated feedback from over 25,000 company reviews to identify the top companies in the U.S. based on their ability to implement adaptable policies and practices such as leave allowances, flexible scheduling, relocation assistance and career advancement opportunities. The workplaces ranked on the list foster a culture that embraces inclusion and respect, offer mentorship, coaching and networking opportunities.

This is a timely recognition for Bath & Body Works, as the company commemorates National Veterans and Military Families Month in the U.S. and Veteran’s Week in Canada leading up to Remembrance Day on Nov. 11. In honor of these important commemorations, Bath & Body Works encourages its associates to join them in showing appreciation and support by giving time and resources to organizations serving the military community. These organizations include the Wounded Warrior Project, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, VETS Canada, Soldiers’ Angels and the United Services Organization (USO).

Bath & Body Works supports associates through its Inclusion Resource Groups (IRGs). MAVRIC was established for associates who previously or currently serve in the military, their families and allies. The IRG strives to continue the service mindset through volunteerism and by supporting, engaging and creating opportunities for military veterans, their families and the entire community of supporters.

MAVRIC is one of eight Inclusion Resource Groups established by Bath & Body Works which allow associates to connect with one another and to collaborate on ways to cultivate an inclusive workplace. These groups provide professional development, support the needs of the business, help shape the culture of the company and volunteer in the communities it serves.

“Current and prior military members have so many ‘hidden skillsets’ that often go unseen or not recognized in corporate America,” says Ian Thomas, MAVRIC IRG Chair. “MAVRIC is important to me because it is physical proof of Bath & Body Works’ dedication to find and refine military talent.”

In addition to making Newsweek’s ranking of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Veterans, Bath & Body Works recently has been recognized in several other ways including:

America’s Greenest Companies by NewsweekWorld’s Most Trustworthy Companies by NewsweekAmerica’s Greatest Workplaces by NewsweekAmerica’s Best Workplaces for Women by NewsweekAmerica’s Greatest Workplaces for LGBTQ+ individuals by NewsweekMost Trustworthy Companies in America by NewsweekDiversity in Business Award by Columbus Business FirstForbes List of America’s Best Large EmployersForbes List of America’s Best Employers for WomenA Diversity First Top 50 Company by the Diversity Research Institute

For more information about Bath & Body Works’ commitment to people and culture, visit bbwinc.com/people.

ABOUT BATH & BODY WORKS

Home of America’s Favorite Fragrances®, Bath & Body Works is a global leader in personal care and home fragrance, including top-selling collections for fine fragrance mist, body lotion and body cream, 3-wick candles, home fragrance diffusers and liquid hand soap. Powered by agility and innovation, the company’s predominantly U.S.-based supply chain enables the company to deliver quality, on-trend luxuries at affordable prices. Bath & Body Works serves and delights customers however and wherever they want to shop, from welcoming, in-store experiences at more than 1,820 company-operated Bath & Body Works locations in the U.S. and Canada and more than 440 international franchised locations to an online storefront at BathandBodyWorks.com.

For more information, please contact:

Bath & Body Works, Inc.: 
Media Relations 
Emmy Beach 
Communications@bbw.com

As Whole Planet Foundation crosses the $107 million threshold for funds disbursed, we have set ambitious but achievable goals for the next 7 years. By 2030, Whole Planet Foundation aims to reach 300,000 new microentrepreneurs, smallholder farmers, and vulnerable populations.

Reflecting on our 18-year evolution, we see that our role in the Responsible Finance sector is to support local organizations that help financially excluded people to generate income so they can address their basic needs and become more resilient in the face of shocks. As people address their basic needs and become more resilient, they can strengthen their community ecosystems and contribute to positive economic, environmental, and social outcomes.

To help us reach this goal, Whole Planet Foundation is launching a Call for Applications for implementing organizations working across Latin America and the Caribbean. Organizations that may apply include socially-focused Microfinance Institutions, social enterprises, nonprofit organizations, and cooperatives. Preference will be given to organizations serving rural and financially vulnerable farmers, with access to less than 3 hectares, living near the poverty line.

Whole Planet provides new partners with (a) grants, or (b) local currency loans with 0% interest. New projects can range between $50,000 – $500,000. Typical first projects provide partners with $300,000, over the course of 3 years. We are also open to considering alternative financing vehicles.

Project Requirements

Whole Planet Foundation must partner directly with implementing organizations that can submit quarterly reports regarding project and institutional progress. This includes reporting quantitative and qualitative information on the number of beneficiaries that received project funds, the amount of funds utilized, and more.Whole Planet Foundation will consider mature organizations as well as post-pilot initiatives. Project ticket-size will be based on the maturity of the program and organization as well as the organization’s ability to absorb funds. Whole Planet Foundation’s contribution cannot be more than 30% of the organization’s total assets/loan portfolio outstanding.Whole Planet Foundation seeks partners that are looking to continuously achieve net growth.Whole Planet Foundation projects must target very vulnerable segments, including people living near the poverty line and excluded from financial systems.Whole Planet Foundation projects must be appropriately designed for vulnerable segments, as marked by their accessibility and affordability. For example, if the project is to fund Agricultural Loans to smallholder farmers, the loans should not require collateral or salaried co-guarantors; should not use the legal system to demand assets from delinquent clients; and the organization should provide services within farmers’ communities.

Applicants may apply to 1 or several of the following funds. Note that the first 4 describe the methodologies that Whole Planet Foundation currently funds and prioritizes. The last option, “Special Requests/ Other”, is for organizations that don’t fall within Whole Planet Foundation’s current models but would nonetheless like to make a special request for Whole Planet Foundation to consider.

1. Economic Opportunity Fund

a. Segments and services: Entry-level microentrepreneurs receive business and empowerment training, social services, and business microloans to start or expand a micro-enterprise. Methodologies supported in this fund include, but are not limited to: Grameen Bank-style Group Lending; institutions lending to informal savings groups; and individual loans.

b. Whole Planet Foundation’s contribution: Funding business microloans; providing seed capital and matching savings for Savings Groups; etc. Loan size per client varies per country but typically does not exceed $800. The amount is often much lower since Whole Planet Foundation prioritizes clients in their first cycle.

c. Type of organization: Typically, a Microfinance Institution (although, legal status may vary). Whole Planet Foundation prioritizes organizations that are in the process of achieving Operational Self-Sufficiency. Whole Planet Foundation rarely works with organizations with Operational Self-Sufficiency over 120%. Whole Planet Foundation partners that provide dividends to shareholders will only be eligible for debt financing.

2. Resilient Farmer Fund

a. Segment and services: Smallholder farmers, with access to less than 3 hectares, receive financial services, accessible farming tools, technical assistance, and a guaranteed market to sell their harvest. Methodologies supported in this fund include but are not limited to: Input Loans through which organizations offer seeds, fertilizer, and/or farming tools to their farmers at the beginning of the season with the commitment to then purchase and sell farmers’ harvest; organizations offering advanced payments to farmers before farmers have delivered their harvest.

b. Whole Planet Foundation’s contribution: Funding the seeds, fertilizer, and/or farming tools financed by farmers; funding the advanced payments to farmers. Seed capital/ loan size varies per country, but typically does not exceed $1,000. Sizes tend to be much lower, since Whole Planet Foundation prioritizes entry-level farmers.

c. Type of organization: Typically, but not exclusively, companies, cooperatives, and social enterprises. Whole Planet Foundation prioritizes organizations that are in the process of achieving Operational Self-Sufficiency. Whole Planet Foundation partners that distribute dividends to stakeholders will only be eligible for debt financing.

3. Food Security Fund

a. Segment and services: Subsistence farmers living in extreme poverty financing affordable farming tools, while receiving technical assistance and coaching. Methodologies in this fund include but are not limited to: organizations seeking out subsistence farmers, with the goal of converting them into income-generating smallholder farmers.

b. Whole Planet Foundation’s contribution: Funding the tools that farmers finance. Seed capital/loan size per client varies per country but typically does not exceed $750. The amount is typically much lower, as Whole Planet Foundation prioritizes entry-level farmers.

c. Type of organization: Typically, but not exclusively, nonprofit organizations.

4. Energy and Water Fund

a. Segment and services: People living off-grid finance essential goods like solar home kits, water filters and fuel-efficient cookstoves.

b. Whole Planet Foundation’s contribution: Funding the procurement of these essential goods.

c. Type of organization: Legal status varies and may include both nonprofit and for-profit entities. Whole Planet Foundation prioritizes organizations that are in the process of achieving Operational Self-Sufficiency. Whole Planet Foundation rarely works with organizations with Operational Self-Sufficiency over 120%. Whole Planet Foundation’s partners that provide dividends to shareholders will only be eligible for debt financing.

5. Special Requests/Other

The Whole Planet Foundation team is constantly reviewing the most impactful way our funds can be spent. If your organization has an innovative and data-backed approach that is not described above but nonetheless helps people living in poverty to generate income, please apply.

Examples of other methodologies that Whole Planet Foundation would consider:

Grant transfers to farmers. For example: an Agroforestry organization that provides fruit tree seedings to farmers at no cost, which will generate income for the farmer after several years.Asset donations to Fishing Associations, to provide members with post-harvest tools.Organizations that sell farming tools on credit to small-to-medium-size stores, which then sell on this inventory to vulnerable populations, using an affordable pricing structure. Ex: a company that finances biofortified seeds to mom-and-pop shops, which then sells those seeds to their customers, under an affordable pricing structure.

About the Application Process

Interested parties may apply here. We anticipate this form will take 2 to 3 hours to complete. We recommend that you prepare your responses in a separate document to ensure you do not lose longer answers.The form may be completed in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.Please check your spam mailbox regularly, as our messages regarding your application status might end up there.

Timeline for Priority Countries

Brazil: December 15, 2023Panama: December 31, 2023Guatemala: December 31, 2023Jamaica: February 1, 2024French Guyana: February 1, 2024Bolivia: February 1, 2024Peru: February 1, 2024Ecuador: February 1, 2024Applications from all other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean: April 1, 2024.

Thank you for your interest in collaborating with Whole Planet Foundation. We look forward to exploring a potential partnership.

About Whole Planet Foundation

Whole Planet Foundation is a private foundation of Whole Foods Market. We have funded projects in more than 80 countries, working with more than 130 organizations to help financially vulnerable people to generate income. To date, we have disbursed over $106.2M. In Latin America, Whole Planet Foundation has disbursed $24.7 million. See our global impact dashboard here and learn more at wholeplanetfoundation.org.

ROCHESTER, N.Y., November 10, 2023 /3BL/ – NelsonHall, a global analyst and research firm, has once again identified Paychex, Inc., a leading provider of integrated human capital management software solutions for human resources, employee benefits, insurance services, and payroll, as a “Leader” in its 2023 NelsonHall Vendor Evaluation and Assessment Tool (NEAT) report for payroll service providers.

This is the seventh consecutive time Paychex has been positioned in the upper right quadrant of the NEAT graph with a leader designation featuring Paychex Flex®, the company’s cloud-based SaaS solution. The NEAT allows buyers to assess the capabilities of payroll vendors across a range of criteria and business situations to identify the best-performing vendors.

Liz Rennie, NelsonHall’s HR technology & services research director, said, “Paychex is a Leader in the Digital Payroll Capability and Payroll Plus (Extended HR) market segments. It offers responsive customer service alongside robust payroll technology that is easy to use. Paychex clients benefit from payroll insights, accuracy and timeliness, as well as positive employee experiences. Its live agent experience, payroll interactive walkthroughs, and flexibility of notifications are examples of its payroll innovations.”

NelsonHall’s 2023 NEAT report evaluated 15 payroll services vendors based on two criteria: (1) the ability to deliver immediate client benefits and (2) the ability to meet clients’ future requirements. Paychex was positioned highly in the “Leader” category, fulfilling both criteria when evaluated for Digital Payroll Capability and Payroll Plus (Extended HR) Capability.

“It’s an honor to be recognized again by NelsonHall for delivering innovative technology that is enabling business leaders to focus on the bigger picture through productivity gains and optimized workflows,” said Tom Hammond, Paychex vice president of corporate strategy and product management. “Payroll is just one of the many areas of HR technology we are focused on when it comes to Paychex Flex. We’re continuously anticipating the challenges that businesses face to design, develop, and implement the right solutions to help them succeed.”

According to the American Payroll Association’s 2023 “Getting Paid in America” survey, just over 41% of respondents said it would be very difficult to meet current financial obligations if their next paycheck were delayed by a week, with 29% of respondents saying it would be somewhat difficult. Over the past year, Paychex has enhanced several payroll-centric features within the company’s comprehensive HCM platform Paychex Flex to drive payroll transparency, accuracy, and efficiency for payroll administrators and self-service capabilities for employees.

Visit paychex.com to learn more about the Paychex suite of solutions, including payroll.

About Paychex 
Paychex, Inc. (Nasdaq: PAYX) is an industry-leading HCM company delivering a full suite of technology and advisory services in human resources, employee benefit solutions, insurance, and payroll. The company serves approximately 740,000 customers in the U.S. and Europe and pays one out of every 12 American private sector employees. The more than 16,000 people at Paychex are committed to helping businesses succeed and building thriving communities where they work and live. To learn more, visit paychex.com.

About NelsonHall 
NelsonHall is the leading global analyst firm dedicated to helping organizations understand the ‘art of the possible’ in digital operations transformation. NelsonHall provides buy-side organizations with detailed, critical information on markets and vendors (including NEAT assessments) that helps them make fast and highly informed sourcing decisions. And for vendors, NelsonHall provides deep knowledge of market dynamics and user requirements to help them hone their go-to-market strategies. NelsonHall’s research is based on rigorous, all-original research, and is widely respected for the quality, depth, and insight of its analysis.

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Today and every day, we give thanks to all those providing care to loved ones. We recognize that caregiving can have an immense toll on one’s overall well-being. If you or a loved one are a caregiver, it’s important to know that you are not alone. 

These tips from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion offer ideas for how caregivers can get physical and Mental Health support. https://lnkd.in/geEJm5tb

Albertsons Companies is committed to a healthy future and supporting our communities. Last month, Kevin Curry, President of the Southern California Division, presented $1 million to City of Hope, one of the largest cancer treatment and research organizations in the United States. Funds were raised in our Southern California Division stores as part of a July campaign benefiting organizations dedicated to cancer research, providing treatment or providing support services for individuals with cancer.

City of Hope will use the donation to support their Patient Assistance Fund, which serves as a financial safety-net for cancer patients and their families who might be experiencing significant financial stress during their cancer treatment. The fund supports needs including transportation, lodging, medically necessary post-discharge care and food insecurity.

Thank you to our Southern California Division customers and associates for coming together to make a difference for our neighbors in need.

See original post on LinkedIn and read more about Albertsons Companies and our Recipe for Change on our website.

MEMPHIS, Tenn., November 10, 2023 /3BL/ – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) today announced its Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 Sustainability Award winners. The awards recognize exemplary sustainability programs and initiatives in paper and wood products manufacturing.

International Paper was honored to receive a Leadership in Sustainability Award for Resilient U.S. Forests for its innovative approach to promote forest bird awareness and conservation within the forest product supply chain in partnership with the American Bird Conservancy (ABC).

“We are honored by AF&PA’s recognition of our efforts in partnership with the American Bird Conservancy,” said Sophie Beckham, VP and Chief Sustainability Officer, IP. “This partnership has given us the opportunity to work with landowners, suppliers, conservationists, and bird specialists to support wildlife diversity in the landscapes from which we source fiber.”

In 2020, IP and ABC formalized a multi-year partnership with the goal of integrating bird conservation into IP’s fiber procurement operations. This partnership advances IP’s commitment to sustaining forests and reversing the decline of forest birds.

IP and ABC recognized that both organizations share the need for sustainably managed forests to meet their missions and support their respective business models. Given the scale and scope of IP’s operations, this partnership brought together IP’s strengths and expertise in fiber procurement and ABC’s expertise in bird conservation to contribute to reversing population declines in forest birds.

Through the partnership and working with the Avian Research and Conservation Institute (ARCI), IP and ABC found that Swallow-tailed Kites are excellent ambassadors for sustainable working forests in the U.S. South. Kites are relatively easy to identify; they nest and forage on southeast working forests; and they migrate thousands of miles back to their wintering grounds in South America in late summer. Tracking kites allows IP to monitor their movements all year long to further understand their specific habitat needs and use the data to target conservation and outreach in the most strategic areas.

“Our sustainability awards are outstanding examples of our goals in action,” said AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock. “We received our highest number of sustainability awards applications to date. We are so pleased to present these awards and deeply value the innovative work being done across our industry to advance safety, sustainability, and diversity, equity and inclusion.” 

Better Practices, Better Planet is one of the longest standing sustainability initiatives for a U.S. manufacturing industry. The program was established more than a decade ago.

The sustainability award winners demonstrate the industry’s long-held commitment to improving practices that advance sustainable products for a sustainable future. The 2023 Sustainability Award winners were selected by a judging panel with representatives from Clemson University, the Department of Energy, GreenBlue, the National Association of Manufacturers, Pure Strategies and the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Visit afandpa.org/priorities/sustainability/sustainability-awards for videos from all of the award winning projects.

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About American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA)
The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative —Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states. Visit AF&PA online at afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper.

About International Paper 
International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global producer of planet-friendly packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, and one of North America’s largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what’s next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2022 were $21.2 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com.

If there’s anyone who can understand how to best support the needs of our military’s healthcare workers in the field, it’s Jeff Coppa. He joined the U.S. Army as a combat medic, later becoming a licensed practical nurse. During his 10 years in the service, Jeff deployed to Bosnia and Korea, where he earned the Expert Field Medical Badge, and served under various commands, including the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Ft. Campbell where he earned the Air Assault Badge.

Jeff worked in a cardiology ward at Ft. Sam Houston as a nurse and managed an emergency room at Camp Casey, Korea. He also served on one of only two Army forward surgery medical teams. While he had planned to stay in the Army for 20 years, Jeff had to medically separate following three knee surgeries due to his Air Assault adventures.

Thankfully, he discovered a way to join two of his interests – healthcare and a lifelong love of technology – in his next career. Throughout his service, the internet went from useful and accessible to necessary for efficient operations.

“I’d been a sci-fi fan and a geek for technology since I was young. I’d always been interested in the latest computers and jumped at the chance to learn more,” he says.

While serving on the 101st Airborne, Jeff volunteered to take technical courses to bring his often-deployed team up to speed. “This was at a time when computers were going mainstream, and the internet was quite new. While we were in Bosnia, I spent a lot of time experimenting with new technology.”

When he found out he needed to medically separate from the military, Jeff was offered skills training and decided to take IT classes. He earned certifications in Microsoft and Novell.

“I knew the world was going in that direction and that I should get in early,” he says. Not only did he find a job quickly, he found one in which he could continue serving the forces from the civilian side while exploring his interest in emerging technologies. Since then, Jeff has spent his entire 25-year civilian career with one company: Leidos.

Combining service and technical skills in his civilian career

Today, Jeff supports the U.S. military’s legacy healthcare system as senior technical lead. His responsibilities include scripting and deploying code to simplify complex tasks, authoring and maintaining technical work instructions, training and mentoring, data analytics, managing enterprise processes, and overseeing his group’s project website to leverage increased efficiencies.

Over the course of his long career with Leidos, he has held many roles – including network specialist, site manager, operations support, and bid and proposal work – across various locations. Starting in San Antonio, Texas, Jeff later moved to Huntsville, Ala., where he rebuilt the Fox Army Health Center network. He then moved to Guantanamo Bay Naval Hospital, where he deployed new wireless technologies and wired and connected a field hospital before relocating again to Montgomery, Ala.

“I know the standard advice to people looking for upward mobility is to change companies every few years, but I never found the need to do that here,” Jeff says, noting that he has remained at Leidos for 25 years because he’s always been treated well and had room to grow.

He attributes his successful and extensive career at Leidos to his ambition, relationships with mentors, and drive to learn.

“I kept in touch with people who could point me in the right direction,” Jeff says. “And I always keep learning, even hitting the books to learn the basics of DCL programming.”

Jeff’s advice for military members: learn how to translate your skillset

“The work ethic I learned as a soldier and the leadership skills I honed as a noncommissioned officer have served me well,” Jeff says. “The experience and the discipline people develop in the military are great assets in the civilian world, but learning to apply them can take some time.”

Having hired and worked with many military veterans over his career, Jeff strives to help them maintain their valuable “mission first” mentality while teaching them lessons he had to learn the hard way.

“After the military, I realized that I needed to tone down my leadership style and adopt a gentler way of communicating,” Jeff explains.

He advises transitioning service members to connect with mentors while also taking responsibility for growing their skills and continually learning. He also says they shouldn’t sell themselves short.

“Planning and organizing, adapting to changing situations, working long hours, and teamwork are a staple in the Army—and those same skills apply equally well in the civilian world,” he says, adding that veterans often focus too much on their military job titles, which civilians don’t fully understand, and forget to include valuable ancillary duties and skills.

“Imagine an ex-noncommissioned officer in the infantry. While there isn’t much demand for digging foxholes in civilian life, that person led teams to accomplish missions under what may have looked like impossible situations. They also managed supply chain issues, planned and organized travel, provided daily personnel management, and so much more. They can point that out in their resumés and interviews,” he says.

“You don’t need a degree in management to be a manager.”

When preparing to look for civilian work, veterans should consider the skills they honed while in the service and be ready to explain how those apply to the civilian workforce. Finally, look for a company that understands and values what you bring as a military veteran.

“I’ve been lucky enough to work in so many different roles that I’ve never had time to become bored,” Jeff emphasizes, noting that Leidos invests in its people and their ability to connect with one another across organizational teams and locations.

“I love the values at Leidos,” Jeff says, noting that the concept of diversity and inclusion was non-existent in his small-town upbringing in West Virginia. His time in the Army changed that. “My experience was that there was just one color – green.”

This worldview has stuck with him, and the culture at Leidos further strengthens it.

“While I loved being part of the small, elite team in the 101st, I’ve been blessed in so many ways at Leidos. I’ve made friends that have lasted nearly my entire career and been mentored by some exceptional leaders. I would not be where I am today without their leadership and guidance. I’m most proud of being able to call these people my friends.”

JOIN OUR MISSION

Leidos is committed to hiring and supporting military veterans and spouses.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OPERATION MVP

Edison International takes pride in supporting our communities through investing our time, energy and financial support. In volunteer events throughout our service area, Edison International and SCE team members often bring along family members. We are proud that continued investments in public safety and emergency preparedness, civic engagement, education and the environment, along with supplier diversity initiatives, have created a ripple effect of economic growth and opportunity throughout the region. Seeing these positive impacts further inspires us to take actions to help communities thrive.

We take the commitment to serve our communities seriously. Whether it’s our team members giving their time restoring a nature trail, awarding scholarships to increase diversity in STEM fields and skilled trades, or funding initiatives to increase access to open space in underserved neighborhoods, we are committed to making a positive impact.

Advancing STEM and Vocational Skills 

We’re passionate about increasing opportunities in populations that have historically been underrepresented in STEM careers by funding programs that bring STEM education and vocational training to educationally underserved communities. This gives students skills and experiences they won’t find in a typical classroom setting. We’re hoping to inspire a new generation of diverse talent to pursue STEM careers and to make a difference in clean energy and indeed, in the world, while providing opportunities to our local youth and young adults.

Since 2006, Edison Scholars has awarded over $13.5 million in scholarships to 730 students. In 2022, we donated more than $3.4 million to support STEM scholarships for underrepresented college students. This included $1.2 million to provide 30 high school seniors each with a $40,000 scholarship to support college study in a STEM subject through the Edison Scholars signature scholarship program. In 2023, the scholarship amount is being increased to $50,000. We’re also partnering with colleges and universities to provide funding and scholarships to students historically underrepresented in STEM careers, including women, Latinx and firstgeneration college students. Our goal is to level the playing field and create opportunities through the power of STEM education.

I seek to give back. I want to ensure that the community that invested heavily in me is repaid. A college education will not only advance my career, but it will open the door for opportunities for me to inspire others.”

MARIO PORTILLO 

2023 Edison Scholar

Supporting Climate Equity in Our Communities

Edison International is dedicated to supporting communities that are disproportionately affected by climate change and other environmental hazards. We believe that a transition to clean energy, which we have championed since originally co-convening the Clean Energy Access Working Group in 2017, has the power to create a future full of socioeconomic benefits for all, and we are working hard to ensure that such a transition is just and inclusive.

Our approach to this just transition is focused on expanding access to jobs, training, programs and services to environmental and social justice communities — both at SCE and through Edison Energy’s* client engagements. We also focus on capacity-building efforts through collaboration with local community leaders to create climate actions that serve our community members.

Our primary equity objectives related to climate adaptation are to raise regional awareness and readiness for climaterelated hazards — especially in historically vulnerable communities. We support climate planning and action in these communities through:

Sharing expertise generated through SCE’s publication of a climate adaptation vulnerability risk assessment, which was informed by input from over 70 climate-vulnerable communities in our service area;Funding services such as Climate Resolve’s Grant-Writing Assistance Program, which helps community leaders unlock adaptation-related grant funding; andSupporting work-learning programs for youth throughout the Los Angeles region at Outward Bound Adventures, dedicated to introducing historically absent demographics to outdoor education, as well as employment in the conservation sector.

In 2022, SCE convened a series of community forums as a means to engage community-based organizations that work regionally across our service territory in an effort to share important information and resources related to clean energy. The initial program was held in a virtual format in late spring. By the fall, programming transitioned to be hosted in a hybrid setting. More than 100 community-based organizations attended the forum online and in person at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. SCE looks forward to hosting additional community forums in 2023.

Outreach to Disadvantaged Communities During Public Service Power Shutoffs (PSPS)

SCE’s Access and Functional Needs (AFN) team provides critical services to customers who rely on electricity for their health, safety and independence — and are disproportionally disadvantaged when it comes to power interruptions, such as PSPS. This includes individuals with disabilities and medical conditions, those requiring assistive technologies and customers with financial needs.

In October 2022, weather conditions raised the likelihood of catastrophic wildfires — and the need for PSPS. Over a six-day period, AFN supervisors partnered with the Incident Management Team, field staff, community organizations and service providers to support customers who could be affected by outages. The AFN team held daily briefings and worked to ensure that customers with special needs were prepared in the event of a power outage. Though a PSPS was ultimately not required, the AFN team was at the ready to serve individuals who rely on electricity to survive. Learn more about AFN resources and support.

Positive change is happening in the clean energy space. Working together, we can amplify that transformation. And our futures will be brighter, greener and lasting because of it.”

MONICA ESTRADA NUÑEZ 

Senior Manager of Community Engagement, SCE

Volunteering and Board Service 

We strive to make a positive impact in the communities in which we operate, and our employees are committed to this goal. To encourage this, we offer a volunteer engagement grant program. Under this program, Edison International and SCE employees and retirees who volunteer for 40 hours receive $100 to donate to a nonprofit organization of their choice, with a maximum of $600 per year.

In addition, we were proud to host a range of volunteer events throughout the year. Some of these included:

Habitat for Humanity home buildsAmerican Red Cross home fire alarm installations and blood donation drivesResidential solar panel installations with GRID AlternativesBolsa Chica Conservancy for natural habitat restoration projectsNeighborhood, beach, wetland, river, state park and national forest cleanupsTreePeople and Long Beach Conservation Corps tree plantingsStamp Out Hunger food drive with United Way and National Family Volunteer Day at the OC Food Bank

Edison International also supports nonprofit partners through executive board service. In 2022, 40 of our executives served on charitable nonprofit boards.

Employee Board Placement Program (EBPP) 

In 2022, the EBPP focused on providing individual contributors and select leaders an opportunity to serve on targeted community-based organization boards. The goals of the board placements were primarily to create a supportive network in our communities by matching employee talents and interests with diverse community-based organizations and build good will with employees looking for board service opportunities. The Community Engagement team proactively engaged small to medium 501c(3) organizations that represented various geographical regions and focus areas where there was strategic alignment on clean energy policies or DEI focus.

View the full Edison International 2022 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Report.