Tag: 3BL

The Cleveland Cavaliers recently launched the Cavs Book Bus presented by KeyBank in partnership with the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank at a special event held at Artemus Ward Elementary School. Transforming the school day into a celebration of reading, the immersive book fair experience surprised students as the Cavs Book Bus arrived on campus.

“Education has always been a core focus of our community platform at the Cleveland Cavaliers, as we recognize the transformative impact literacy can have on a child’s future,” said Nic Barlage CEO of Rock Entertainment Group, Cleveland Cavaliers and Rocket Arena. “Our partnership with KeyBank and the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank is a powerful extension of our dedication to youth, learning and equity in Northeast Ohio. Together, we are working to ensure every child in our city has books in their home – sparking a love for reading, inspiring dreams and empowering success both inside and outside the classroom.”

The Cavs Book Bus is dedicated to narrowing literacy gaps in Cleveland by making sure under-resourced students have access to books in their own home. This mobile program visits local schools and various community activities each year inviting students to select free books to grow their personal home libraries. In partnership with the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank, distributed books will continue to foster literacy and a passion for reading at no cost to children who pass through the bus.

“Watching a child step onto the Cavs Book Bus and find a book that feels like it was meant just for them—that’s the magic that fuels our work. Every book a child chooses builds confidence, joy, and possibility, and helps grow a home library that reflects who they are. Partnerships like this one are what make true book access possible in Cleveland, ensuring every child has the stories they deserve.” Natalie Friedl, Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank Executive Director.

The launch event at Artemus Ward featured special appearances from the Cavs mascot Sir CC and the entertainment teams, as second and third grade students explored the Book Bus and chose their books. Speakers, including Nic Barlage, Natalie Friedl, Executive Director of the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank and Patty Jurca, Chief Marketing Officer at KeyBank, each emphasized the importance of collaboration in supporting youth literacy and educational opportunities in Northeast Ohio.

“KeyBank is deeply committed to strengthening the communities we serve, and education is a cornerstone of that commitment because it creates pathways to opportunity and long-term success,” said Patty Jurca, Chief Brand Officer at KeyBank. “By partnering on the Cavs Book Bus, we hope to close literacy gaps and ensure students have access to the resources they need to thrive. When children have the tools to learn and grow, the entire community benefits.”

The event also honored Valley Ford Truck Inc. for donating the truck that powers the Cavaliers Book Bus, enabling the mobile literacy initiative to reach schools and neighborhoods throughout Northeast Ohio. Thanks to their support the program can broaden its reach and impact, giving even more children opportunities to experience the joy of reading and the transformative power of stories.

ABOUT CLEVELAND CAVALIERS 

The Cleveland Cavaliers, founded in 1970, are a professional basketball team in the NBA’s Eastern Conference. The Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA Championship in 2016 while also taking the Eastern Conference crown in 2007, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Known for their community support, workplace diversity and local economic impact, the team plays at Rocket Arena in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Both the Cavaliers and Rocket Arena are part of Rock Entertainment Group, the umbrella entity of sports and entertainment properties under the Dan Gilbert ROCK Family of Companies. The Cavaliers and Rocket Arena provide fans with the best experience in the NBA with an extensive and stunning array of amenities, technology and signature, electrifying, game presentation. Dan Gilbert is Chairman of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Nic Barlage is the Cavaliers, Rocket Arena and Rock Entertainment Group CEO, and the Cavaliers team is led by President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman, General Manager Mike Gansey and Head Coach Kenny Atkinson.

ABOUT KEYBANK

In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit KeyBank Heritage Center. 

Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $187 billion at September 30, 2025. 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 Member FDIC.

WASHINGTON, December 12, 2025 /3BL/ – America250, the bipartisan organization charged by Congress to lead the commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, today announced a landmark partnership with Leidos that will help define how innovation is celebrated throughout the Semiquincentennial.  

As an America250 Founding Innovation Partner, Leidos’ involvement will ensure that American achievements in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, healthcare, space systems, and other pioneering fields shaping the nation’s future are well spotlighted.  

Leidos joins America250 in honoring the bold visionaries, veterans, and innovators who have propelled our nation forward over the past two and a half centuries while inspiring the next generation to carry that legacy forward. 

“Leidos is driven by purpose, built on ingenuity, and dedicated to service — representing the very essence of American innovation,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, our partnership with Leidos will showcase the power of innovation not just as a reflection of our past, but as a promise for our future. Together, we’ll honor and inspire the inventors, dreamers, and doers who will define the next 250 years of America.” 

Leidos and America250 will collaborate on storytelling and educational initiatives that highlight American innovations and ingenuity. With nearly 20% of Leidos’ workforce being veterans, the partnership will also honor America’s former military servicemembers through programs that elevate their voices and recognize their enduring contributions to the nation’s history and future. 

“America’s 250^th anniversary is a unique moment to reflect on the innovations that have earned the United States of America its singular place in history and set the stage for the exceptional achievements this country will see in the coming centuries,” said Leidos CEO Tom Bell. “We’re deeply appreciative of America250’s efforts and grateful for this opportunity as the first Founding Innovation Partner to help fuel the curiosity and creativity that will drive our nation’s next chapter.”  

To learn more about America250 and its national commemorative efforts, visit America250.org. For more details on Leidos, visit www.leidos.com. 

About America250 

America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America. 

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.leidos.com.

PHOENIX, December 12, 2025 /3BL/ – Subaru of America, Inc. has once again chosen Make-A-Wish® as a national charity partner for the Subaru Share the Love® Event, marking 15 consecutive years of collaboration. From November 20, 2025, through January 2, 2026, Subaru will donate $250* for every new vehicle purchased or leased to the customer’s choice of participating charities, including Make-A-Wish.

Since the partnership began in 2011, Subaru has contributed more than $38 million to Make-A-Wish, helping grant over 3,900 transformative wishes to children facing critical illnesses across the country. Subaru remains the organization’s largest automotive donor.

“Make-A-Wish serves children fighting critical illnesses, and Subaru’s Share the Love campaign helps turn their wishes into lasting strength and hope,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “Each wish improves emotional and physical well-being, and most wish children go on to recover, an impact made possible by partners like Subaru.”

The commitment of Subaru to Make-A-Wish is visible nationwide, including through its partnership with Make-A-Wish New Mexico and Garcia Subaru North. As part of the Subaru Share the Love Event, the retailer hosts two annual events that bring the community together in celebration and support of wish kids. Each October, the season kicks off with a festive Trunk or Treat in the retailer’s parking lot, followed by the Holly Jolly Party in December, held in the showroom. These events welcome wish kids, their families, and local supporters for an evening of activities, treats, and gifts. Highlights include appearances by the 501st Legion, a reading of The Night Before Christmas by Santa Claus, and a special wish reveal—such as in 2024, when 7-year-old Kaleb learned his wish was being granted. Children also select from a variety of donated toys, and the event fosters connection between current wish kids and alumni.

“The act of giving back is woven into Subaru’s DNA and the daily mission of our incredible charity partners,” said Alan Bethke, Senior Vice President of Marketing, at Subaru of America, Inc. “The Subaru Share the Love Event empowers our owners and retailers to drive lasting change while sharing the season’s greatest gifts: compassion and care.”

In addition to national charities, Subaru retailers can select up to two local hometown charities to receive a minimum of $50 per vehicle sold or leased. In 2024, 32 retailers chose 23 local Make-A-Wish chapters, contributing to over $3.1 million in donations through last year’s event.

To learn more about the Subaru Share the Love Event and if your local Subaru retailer has selected a Make-A-Wish chapter as a hometown charity, visit Subaru.com/share. To join Subaru and others in giving renewed hope and joy this season, visit wish.org/Subaru.

*Subaru will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased from November 20, 2025, through January 2, 2026, to four national charities designated by the purchaser or lessee. Pre-approved hometown charities may also be selected for donation depending on retailer participation. In addition, for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased during the campaign period, participating retailers will donate a minimum of $50 in total to their registered hometown charities. Purchasers/lessees must make their charity designations by January 9, 2026. The four national charities will receive a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000 each. See your local Subaru retailer for details or visit subaru.com/share. All donations made by SOA.###

About Make-A-Wish^®

Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Founded in Phoenix, Arizona, Make-A-Wish is the #1 most trusted nonprofit operating locally in all 50 states throughout the U.S. Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and more than 20,000 volunteers across the country, Make-A-Wish delivers hope and joy to children and their families when they need it most. Make-A-Wish aims to bring the power of wishing to every child with a critical illness because wish experiences can help improve emotional and physical health. Since 1980, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 615,000 wishes worldwide; more than 390,000 wishes in the U.S. and its territories alone. For more information about Make-A-Wish America, visit wish.org.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Camden, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts, and accessories through a network of more than 630 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company’s vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA and the SOA Foundation have donated more than $300 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged nearly 88,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do. For additional information visit media.subaru.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

SOURCE MAKE-A-WISH AMERICA

Direct Relief has been named the TIME 2025 Dreamer of the Year, honoring the organization’s disaster response and sustained recovery efforts in the wake of the Los Angeles wildfires. The Dreamer of the Year distinction, presented by TIME Magazine in collaboration with American Family Insurance, celebrates individuals and organizations who protect, restore, and champion their communities in the face of adversity.

Immediately following the fires that swept through Los Angeles beginning January 7, 2025, Direct Relief moved to support the health systems and response agencies most strained by the disaster. In total, Direct Relief has provided $17.7 million in medical and financial support across Los Angeles County since January 7, 2025, reflecting its commitment to both immediate response and long-term community recovery.

This support included critically needed medicines and emergency supplies for healthcare partners serving evacuees, medical resources for first responders operating at regional command centers, and community pick-up points for N95 masks and personal essentials during prolonged smoke conditions. Direct Relief also issued emergency operating funds to first responder agencies addressing urgent needs in the earliest days of the crisis, and continued funding in the months that followed to support rental assistance, trauma-informed mental health services, and operations at community healthcare organizations managing increased demand and infrastructure strain.

“Direct Relief is honored to receive this recognition for our role in supporting communities across Los Angeles before, during, and after the devastating fires last January,” said Amy Weaver, CEO of Direct Relief. “At every stage, our work has been strengthened by the first responders who moved people to safety with only moments to spare, the healthcare providers who cared for everything from acute injuries to chronic conditions, and the many community partners whose commitment has powered this effort. Above all, it reflects the resilience of the people of Los Angeles, who continue to recover and rebuild with steadiness and resolve. Direct Relief is honored to stand with them, ensuring that the needs of the community continue to guide our work for as long as needed.”

Following the initial response phase, Direct Relief expanded its support to long-term stabilization efforts, including behavioral health programming, school-based recovery resources, and continued support for clinics addressing chronic conditions intensified by smoke and displacement. Funding prioritized organizations serving children, older adults, frontline workers, and medically vulnerable residents throughout extended recovery timelines.

In addition to its work in Los Angeles, Direct Relief operates the world’s largest private humanitarian medical aid program, delivering donated medicines, medical supplies, and emergency resources to health facilities in all 50 U.S. states and more than 90 countries. Over the past year, the organization has provided more than $2 billion in medical aid globally, supporting responses to wildfires, hurricanes, flooding, respiratory emergencies, and conflict-related displacement.

Direct Relief has received 100 percent ratings from Charity Navigator for transparency and financial efficiency for 15 consecutive years.

American Family Insurance and TIME’s award-winning branded content division, TIME Studios, created a digital highlight spotlighting Direct Relief and its work here.

About Direct Relief

A humanitarian organization committed to improving the health and lives of people affected by poverty and disasters, Direct Relief delivers lifesaving medical resources throughout the U.S. and world to communities in need—without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay. For more information, visit https://www.directrelief.org/.

Direct Relief has been named the TIME 2025 Dreamer of the Year, honoring the organization’s disaster response and sustained recovery efforts in the wake of the Los Angeles wildfires. The Dreamer of the Year distinction, presented by TIME Magazine in collaboration with American Family Insurance, celebrates individuals and organizations who protect, restore, and champion their communities in the face of adversity.

Immediately following the fires that swept through Los Angeles beginning January 7, 2025, Direct Relief moved to support the health systems and response agencies most strained by the disaster. In total, Direct Relief has provided $17.7 million in medical and financial support across Los Angeles County since January 7, 2025, reflecting its commitment to both immediate response and long-term community recovery.

This support included critically needed medicines and emergency supplies for healthcare partners serving evacuees, medical resources for first responders operating at regional command centers, and community pick-up points for N95 masks and personal essentials during prolonged smoke conditions. Direct Relief also issued emergency operating funds to first responder agencies addressing urgent needs in the earliest days of the crisis, and continued funding in the months that followed to support rental assistance, trauma-informed mental health services, and operations at community healthcare organizations managing increased demand and infrastructure strain.

“Direct Relief is honored to receive this recognition for our role in supporting communities across Los Angeles before, during, and after the devastating fires last January,” said Amy Weaver, CEO of Direct Relief. “At every stage, our work has been strengthened by the first responders who moved people to safety with only moments to spare, the healthcare providers who cared for everything from acute injuries to chronic conditions, and the many community partners whose commitment has powered this effort. Above all, it reflects the resilience of the people of Los Angeles, who continue to recover and rebuild with steadiness and resolve. Direct Relief is honored to stand with them, ensuring that the needs of the community continue to guide our work for as long as needed.”

Following the initial response phase, Direct Relief expanded its support to long-term stabilization efforts, including behavioral health programming, school-based recovery resources, and continued support for clinics addressing chronic conditions intensified by smoke and displacement. Funding prioritized organizations serving children, older adults, frontline workers, and medically vulnerable residents throughout extended recovery timelines.

In addition to its work in Los Angeles, Direct Relief operates the world’s largest private humanitarian medical aid program, delivering donated medicines, medical supplies, and emergency resources to health facilities in all 50 U.S. states and more than 90 countries. Over the past year, the organization has provided more than $2 billion in medical aid globally, supporting responses to wildfires, hurricanes, flooding, respiratory emergencies, and conflict-related displacement.

Direct Relief has received 100 percent ratings from Charity Navigator for transparency and financial efficiency for 15 consecutive years.

American Family Insurance and TIME’s award-winning branded content division, TIME Studios, created a digital highlight spotlighting Direct Relief and its work here.

About Direct Relief

A humanitarian organization committed to improving the health and lives of people affected by poverty and disasters, Direct Relief delivers lifesaving medical resources throughout the U.S. and world to communities in need—without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay. For more information, visit https://www.directrelief.org/.

After winning the 2025 ESG Award in the “Technological Innovation in ESG” category, CNH brand, New Holland’s T6.180 Methane Power tractor – the world’s first agricultural tractor powered by biomethane gas – also recently won the traditional ECO Innovation and Sustainability Award, in São Paulo, Brazil.

From 2006, when it launched the alternative fuels leadership strategy, New Holland developed tractors powered primarily by biodiesel, as well as hydrogen, until the launch in 2013 of the first methane-powered T6 series tractor prototype, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to meeting its environmental goals and contributing to CO2 reduction.

Environmental advantages

Launched as a commercial product in 2022, the T6.180 Methane Power is available to Brazilian producers. Biomethane propulsion technology offers numerous environmental advantages, including up to 80% reduction in regulated pollutant emissions and 84% in CO2 compared to a standard diesel engine. By using biomethane, a cost reduction of between 25% and 40% can be achieved when compared to conventional fuels. And the tractor has the same performance and autonomy as a diesel tractor of the same size.

In 2023, the brand also presented the concept of the energy-independent farm, in partnership with the main companies in the biomethane sector to create an innovative ecosystem for the production of gas generated from the decomposition of animal waste. Composed of a biodigester, biogas purification system, generator, tractors and heavy trucks, this ecosystem is a pioneer in Brazil and revolutionizes the country’s biogas market.

This type of solution gives the producer the possibility of using the biogas generated within the property (from animal waste, for example) to supply the equipment, taking advantage of the so-called virtuous cycle of the farm, which becomes increasingly self-sufficient from an energy and environmentally correct point of view. In addition, there is a reduction in operating costs and greater peace of mind in the management of activities, as it becomes self-sufficient in fuel production and use, being free from all the uncertainties of the fossil fuel market.

After winning the 2025 ESG Award in the “Technological Innovation in ESG” category, CNH brand, New Holland’s T6.180 Methane Power tractor – the world’s first agricultural tractor powered by biomethane gas – also recently won the traditional ECO Innovation and Sustainability Award, in São Paulo, Brazil.

From 2006, when it launched the alternative fuels leadership strategy, New Holland developed tractors powered primarily by biodiesel, as well as hydrogen, until the launch in 2013 of the first methane-powered T6 series tractor prototype, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to meeting its environmental goals and contributing to CO2 reduction.

Environmental advantages

Launched as a commercial product in 2022, the T6.180 Methane Power is available to Brazilian producers. Biomethane propulsion technology offers numerous environmental advantages, including up to 80% reduction in regulated pollutant emissions and 84% in CO2 compared to a standard diesel engine. By using biomethane, a cost reduction of between 25% and 40% can be achieved when compared to conventional fuels. And the tractor has the same performance and autonomy as a diesel tractor of the same size.

In 2023, the brand also presented the concept of the energy-independent farm, in partnership with the main companies in the biomethane sector to create an innovative ecosystem for the production of gas generated from the decomposition of animal waste. Composed of a biodigester, biogas purification system, generator, tractors and heavy trucks, this ecosystem is a pioneer in Brazil and revolutionizes the country’s biogas market.

This type of solution gives the producer the possibility of using the biogas generated within the property (from animal waste, for example) to supply the equipment, taking advantage of the so-called virtuous cycle of the farm, which becomes increasingly self-sufficient from an energy and environmentally correct point of view. In addition, there is a reduction in operating costs and greater peace of mind in the management of activities, as it becomes self-sufficient in fuel production and use, being free from all the uncertainties of the fossil fuel market.

December 11, 2025 /3BL/ – LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation) Upstate South Carolina and AIM (Accept. Inspire. Minister) celebrated the grand opening of South Carolina’s first Financial Opportunity Center® (FOC) program—a powerful, evidence-based model proven to help individuals and families achieve lasting financial success. This program expansion was made possible in part by a new national $1.5 million Wells Fargo Foundation grant to LISC.

Located at AIM, 1202 S. Murray Avenue, the center will connect residents with bundled employment services, one-on-one financial coaching, and income support navigation so they can achieve greater financial resiliency and mobility. The launch event included remarks from local leaders, representatives from Wells Fargo leadership, a ribbon-cutting, and tours of the space where FOC services will be delivered.

LISC operates a growing network of more than 120 FOC partner organizations nationwide, each rooted in trusted, community-based partner organizations like AIM. These centers serve individuals and families living on low to moderate incomes by helping them build effective money habits, strengthen their financial bottom line, and pursue long-term career and financial goals.

“As LISC brings the Financial Opportunity Center® model to South Carolina for the first time, we are proud to demonstrate what national expertise paired with local partnership can achieve,” said Dawn Deck, LISC Upstate SC Executive Director. “LISC has spent decades refining this integrated coaching approach because we know it works—families increase income, build credit, gain financial stability, and achieve their goals. Partnering with AIM allows us to anchor this proven model in a trusted community organization so that Upstate South Carolina residents can access the tools and supports they need to thrive.”

What sets the FOC model apart is its bundled service approach. Rather than offering these services separately, FOC staff integrate each service through a long-term coaching relationship. National studies show that clients who receive bundled services experience stronger job placement outcomes, better job retention, higher net income, and measurable improvements in financial health.

FOC services include:

• Employment and career counseling
• One-on-one financial coaching and education
• Low-cost financial products that safely build credit, savings, and assets
• Connections to income supports, such as SNAP, utility assistance, and affordable health insurance

“We at AIM are honored to be the first Financial Opportunity Center in the state of South Carolina. We are very excited about this partnership and the opportunity to take our current work to the next level by incorporating this financial wellness piece into all of our programs at AIM,” said Kristi King-Brock, CEO of AIM.

AIM’s FOC program is supported in part by Wells Fargo, which was recently awarded a $1.5 million national grant to support LISC bringing FOC services to communities across the country. This commitment strengthens efforts to build financial security and advance wealth creation for local families and residents who are working hard to build brighter futures.

“Through our philanthropic investments, we are committed to creating pathways to economic mobility and wealth-building for communities across the country,” said Pam Bryant, vice president, Wells Fargo Philanthropy and Community Impact. “We can help more people gain the tools and resources they need to achieve lasting financial success through close collaboration with trusted local organizations, like LISC Upstate South Carolina.”

By launching South Carolina’s first FOC program, AIM and LISC are forging a new pathway for families in the Upstate to improve household stability, overcome financial barriers, and build long-term wealth.

FOC coaches will work directly with residents to map out employment goals, create personalized financial action plans, access benefits, and build the kind of strong financial habits that support lasting success.

About LISC

LISC is one of the country’s largest nonprofit community development organizations, helping forge vibrant, resilient communities across America. LISC works with residents and partners to close gaps in health, wealth, and opportunity so that people and places can thrive. Since its founding in 1979, LISC has invested $35.1 billion to create more than 530,457 affordable homes and apartments, develop 83.5 million square feet of retail, community, and educational space, and help tens of thousands of people find employment and improve their finances. Learn more at www.lisc.org.

About AIM

AIM is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating poverty, restoring hope, and strengthening families throughout Anderson County. Through a broad range of programs, AIM provides immediate support and long-term solutions to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency. www.aimcharity.org

 

Media Contact

Kamilla Johnson
Program Officer for Asset Building, Income & Wealth Building
LISC Upstate South Carolina
kjohnson2@lisc.org

Entergy is dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities we serve. This November, we launched a “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” campaign, focusing on community assistance and food drives aimed at alleviating food insecurity for our most vulnerable neighbors across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. 

The Thanksgiving holiday has long been a meaningful time for addressing food insecurity and offering support to those in need. This year, many families are facing unprecedented challenges, with rising costs straining their resources. In response, Entergy employees partnered with local organizations to lend a helping hand to our neighbors. 

“At Entergy, we believe that our greatest strength lies in our commitment to the communities where we work, live and serve,” said Patty Riddlebarger, vice president of corporate social responsibility. “This campaign is not just about providing food; it’s about fostering hope and ensuring that our neighbors have a place at the table, especially during the holiday season.” 

Throughout November, our dedicated employees organized a variety of initiatives, including fundraising, canned food drives, turkey distribution events, and contributions to food banks, all designed to help customers in need during the holiday season.  

Key highlights of our efforts included:

• Entergy Corporation, Entergy Louisiana and Entergy New Orleans: Collaborated with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, Second Harvest Food Bank, Northshore Food Bank, Our Daily Bread, Community Center of St. Bernard, Giving Hope, and the Junior League of New Orleans to collect nonperishable food items and diapers for our communities. Entergy New Orleans also partnered with Einstein Charter School Turkey Drive for the 6th year, feeding over 100 families.  
• Entergy Arkansas: Donated $40,000 to Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, The Salvation Army and local pantries, and hosted successful food drives to gather essential supplies. Employees also volunteered at local food bank distributions, including those specifically for federal employees impacted by the recent government shutdown, and rang bells for the Red Kettle Campaign.
• Entergy Mississippi: Joined forces with Extra Table for the “Give ‘Em a Bird” fundraiser, distributing over 9,000 chickens and raising vital funds to support local families.
• Entergy Texas: Contributed $30,000 to aid local food banks in their efforts to combat food insecurity within vulnerable communities. 

Through these collective efforts, we remain committed to supporting our neighbors and strengthening our communities year-round, especially during these challenging times. Learn more at Entergy.com/communities.  

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December 11, 2025 /3BL/ – The O2 and Music Venue Trust (MVT), the charity which represents hundreds of grassroots music venues across the UK, have announced a groundbreaking new commitment that formally recognizes the essential role of the grassroots circuit in creating the future headliners for the UK’s world-leading live music scene.

The pioneering initiative will see The O2 make a direct donation to Music Venue Trust each time a new artist headlines the arena for the first time as part of a wider three-year commitment. This ensures that the grassroots ecosystem, which nurtures artists in the early stages of their careers, receives tangible, ongoing support from the very venues that later host their success.

This year alone, The O2 has hosted over 50 first-time performers and is making an initial six-figure donation to Music Venue Trust in celebration of this record milestone. This single donation underscores the volume of talent flowing from small stages to the arena and highlights the critical need for a sustainable pipeline.

Artists who have graduated from the grassroots network to make their debut at The O2 in the last year include Gracie Abrams, Pulp, Architects and Wolf Alice, all of whom honed their craft on stages at venues within the Music Venues Alliance.

Ben Lovett, Mumford & Sons, said: “This week we will play two shows at The O2. Whilst this might not be the first time we’re headlining the arena, it doesn’t make it any less special to be able to come to our hometown and headline a couple of nights in one of the best arenas in the world. Our first time taking to this iconic stage was in 2012, back when many of the venues where we had cut our teeth, including the Luminaire in Kilburn where we played our first headline show, had started closing down. This trend has only continued, in London and across the country, and we have done everything we can to protect the essential grassroots scene; lobbying various sitting governments, trying to educate anyone who’d listen to the fact that artists don’t just arrive in these arenas from nowhere. We’ve played countless shows in these smaller rooms ever since, encouraged our fans to support and actioned the £1 per ticket levy on this current tour, generously supported by our audience.”

Emma Bownes, Senior Vice President, Venue Programming at AEG Europe, added: “The O2 is proud to support the UK’s live music ecosystem, starting with the small stages in local communities. Every artist who headlines The O2 for the first time reflects the strength of that grassroots network. By partnering with Music Venue Trust, we’re investing in the pipeline that nurtures the next generation of breakthrough artists and ensures they have a place to start.”

Mark Davyd, CEO of Music Venue Trust, said: “This is a hugely significant and welcome move from The O2. The success of our arenas is directly connected to the health of the grassroots venues where so many of those headliners began their journey. This partnership sets a powerful new benchmark for the industry, proving that major venues can actively participate in securing the future of the talent pipeline. Our challenge to every other arena in the UK is simple: The O2 has taken a lead, now it’s your chance to follow.”

Ben Lovett continued: “I’ve personally invested into the Music Venue Properties initiative as well as continuing to support Music Venue Trust and a host of similar organisations over recent years. I have even built and operated venues around London and further afield in an effort to brace against the rising tide of the issue. All to say, we couldn’t care more about the essential work of small venues up and down the country and we think it’s brilliant that a venue like The O2 is making a meaningful donation, tied to their “first-time headliner” model to contribute, as we all should, towards a more sustainable ecosystem within live music in the future.”

The commitment represents a major step forward in uniting the live music industry, from the smallest stages to the largest, to create a more resilient and sustainable future for UK music.