Tag: 3BL

Published by Las Vegas Sands on April 9, 2026

LAS VEGAS /3BL/ – Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) has released its latest environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, highlighted by the accomplishment of its 2021-2025 ambitions in the areas of workforce development, community volunteerism and carbon emissions reduction. The company’s goals align with its People, Communities and Planet corporate responsibility pillars.

At the close of 2025, Sands had spent more than $270 million on workforce development initiatives since 2021, surpassing its People pillar ambition to invest $200 million by 2025. In 2025, the company invested nearly $53 million in programs to advance job skills and career training for Team Members, hospitality industry professionals and the local labor pool in its regions.

Sands also surpassed its Communities pillar target of contributing 250,000 Team Member volunteer hours by 2025, with more than 290,000 hours amassed between 2021-2025 and nearly 35,000 volunteer hours logged for 82 nonprofit organizations in 2025.

Under the Planet pillar, Sands reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 54% in 2025 from a 2018 base year, achieving its Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)-validated 17.5% reduction target as well as its 1.5°C-aligned 30% reduction target in line with the United Nations Paris Agreement. The company supported accomplishment of these targets by accelerating renewable energy use and increasing energy attribute certificate purchases from 8% to 31% during the reporting cycle.

In addition to these primary ambitions, Sands made advancements in other People, Communities and Planet priorities.

People – Beyond its 2021-2025 workforce development investment, which encompassed 235 partnerships with universities and 116 new Team Member development programs, Sands continued to place priority on working with local businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in support of its regions’ economic health. In 2025, the company procured $2 billion in goods and services from local businesses in its regions, including $437 million from diverse businesses and SMEs. During the full 2021-2025 reporting period, the company spent $1.7 billion with SMEs in Macao alone.

Communities – Along with its priority on community volunteer service, Sands provided $11 million in philanthropic contributions to nonprofit organizations in 2025 and $53 million in sponsorships to support its regions’ cultural events and programs during the 2021-2025 reporting cycle. Helping nonprofits build their capacity through funding and mentorship remained a top priority, headlined by the Sands Cares Accelerator, which incubates the strategic goals of nonprofits over three years and graduated its sixth member at the end of 2025.

Over the five-year reporting period, helping regions navigate the pandemic and other crisis situations was a primary focus, with Sands contributing substantial Team Member volunteer time, emergency-response supplies, in-kind donations and funding for COVID-19 support around the world. The company’s regions also continued their long-standing tradition of aiding people facing hardships by assembling and donating more than 300,000 hygiene and emergency kits through the Sands Cares Global Hygiene Kit Build with Clean the World and other local emergency preparedness initiatives.

Planet – In addition to maintaining achievement of its emissions-reduction target, Sands achieved other milestones in its priority areas of waste diversion, incorporation of sustainable materials and resources, and water stewardship led by the Sands ECO360 global sustainability program. By the end of 2025, the company had increased operational waste diversion by 10% over a 2019 base year, surpassing its 5% target. Sands’ properties also prevented, rescued or diverted 36% of food waste in 2025, well above the company’s 25% target. In support of its global commitment to reduce food waste, Sands donated 52 metric tons of unserved food to local hunger relief organizations during the five-year reporting period.

In line with its focus on increasing use of sustainable materials and resources, Sands successfully transitioned all company-branded water bottles to reusable solutions or sustainable materials as of August 2025. The company also set a target to procure 100% cage-free eggs by 2028 and made strong progress by achieving 40% sourcing at the end of 2025. Finally, Sands reduced potable water use intensity by 8% in 2025 from the 2019 base year, surpassing its 3% reduction target.

“The 2021-2025 reporting period was a time of resilience and sheer determination to reach our targets with the significant challenges the pandemic brought to the hospitality industry in the early part of the cycle,” Katarina Tesarova, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, said. “We remained committed to our goals throughout every stage, and the credit for achievement of our ESG targets goes to our Team Members around the world.”

Underscoring Sands’ ESG performance in 2025, the company was included on Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2026 list, Newsweek’s 2026 America’s Greenest Companies and 2026 America’s Most Responsible Companies lists, and CDP’s 2025 A-List for Climate Change.

To read the company’s 2025 ESG Report, visit: https://www.sands.com/resources/reports/.

# # #

About Sands (NYSE: LVS)

Sands is the leading global developer and operator of integrated resorts. The company’s iconic properties drive valuable leisure and business tourism and deliver significant economic benefits, sustained job creation, financial opportunities for local businesses and community investment to help make its host regions ideal places to live, work and visit.

Sands’ portfolio of properties includes Marina Bay Sands® in Singapore and The Venetian® Macao, The Londoner Macao®, The Parisian® Macao, The Plaza® Macao and Four Seasons® Hotel Macao, and Sands® Macao in Macao SAR, China, through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd.

Dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, Sands is anchored by the core tenets of serving people, communities and the planet. The company’s ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices for World and North America, as well as Fortune’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies. To learn more, visit www.sands.com.

Contacts:

Kristin Koca

Sands

702.923.9142 Kristin.Koca@sands.com

Published by Las Vegas Sands on April 9, 2026

LAS VEGAS /3BL/ – Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) has released its latest environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, highlighted by the accomplishment of its 2021-2025 ambitions in the areas of workforce development, community volunteerism and carbon emissions reduction. The company’s goals align with its People, Communities and Planet corporate responsibility pillars.

At the close of 2025, Sands had spent more than $270 million on workforce development initiatives since 2021, surpassing its People pillar ambition to invest $200 million by 2025. In 2025, the company invested nearly $53 million in programs to advance job skills and career training for Team Members, hospitality industry professionals and the local labor pool in its regions.

Sands also surpassed its Communities pillar target of contributing 250,000 Team Member volunteer hours by 2025, with more than 290,000 hours amassed between 2021-2025 and nearly 35,000 volunteer hours logged for 82 nonprofit organizations in 2025.

Under the Planet pillar, Sands reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 54% in 2025 from a 2018 base year, achieving its Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)-validated 17.5% reduction target as well as its 1.5°C-aligned 30% reduction target in line with the United Nations Paris Agreement. The company supported accomplishment of these targets by accelerating renewable energy use and increasing energy attribute certificate purchases from 8% to 31% during the reporting cycle.

In addition to these primary ambitions, Sands made advancements in other People, Communities and Planet priorities.

People – Beyond its 2021-2025 workforce development investment, which encompassed 235 partnerships with universities and 116 new Team Member development programs, Sands continued to place priority on working with local businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in support of its regions’ economic health. In 2025, the company procured $2 billion in goods and services from local businesses in its regions, including $437 million from diverse businesses and SMEs. During the full 2021-2025 reporting period, the company spent $1.7 billion with SMEs in Macao alone.

Communities – Along with its priority on community volunteer service, Sands provided $11 million in philanthropic contributions to nonprofit organizations in 2025 and $53 million in sponsorships to support its regions’ cultural events and programs during the 2021-2025 reporting cycle. Helping nonprofits build their capacity through funding and mentorship remained a top priority, headlined by the Sands Cares Accelerator, which incubates the strategic goals of nonprofits over three years and graduated its sixth member at the end of 2025.

Over the five-year reporting period, helping regions navigate the pandemic and other crisis situations was a primary focus, with Sands contributing substantial Team Member volunteer time, emergency-response supplies, in-kind donations and funding for COVID-19 support around the world. The company’s regions also continued their long-standing tradition of aiding people facing hardships by assembling and donating more than 300,000 hygiene and emergency kits through the Sands Cares Global Hygiene Kit Build with Clean the World and other local emergency preparedness initiatives.

Planet – In addition to maintaining achievement of its emissions-reduction target, Sands achieved other milestones in its priority areas of waste diversion, incorporation of sustainable materials and resources, and water stewardship led by the Sands ECO360 global sustainability program. By the end of 2025, the company had increased operational waste diversion by 10% over a 2019 base year, surpassing its 5% target. Sands’ properties also prevented, rescued or diverted 36% of food waste in 2025, well above the company’s 25% target. In support of its global commitment to reduce food waste, Sands donated 52 metric tons of unserved food to local hunger relief organizations during the five-year reporting period.

In line with its focus on increasing use of sustainable materials and resources, Sands successfully transitioned all company-branded water bottles to reusable solutions or sustainable materials as of August 2025. The company also set a target to procure 100% cage-free eggs by 2028 and made strong progress by achieving 40% sourcing at the end of 2025. Finally, Sands reduced potable water use intensity by 8% in 2025 from the 2019 base year, surpassing its 3% reduction target.

“The 2021-2025 reporting period was a time of resilience and sheer determination to reach our targets with the significant challenges the pandemic brought to the hospitality industry in the early part of the cycle,” Katarina Tesarova, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, said. “We remained committed to our goals throughout every stage, and the credit for achievement of our ESG targets goes to our Team Members around the world.”

Underscoring Sands’ ESG performance in 2025, the company was included on Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2026 list, Newsweek’s 2026 America’s Greenest Companies and 2026 America’s Most Responsible Companies lists, and CDP’s 2025 A-List for Climate Change.

To read the company’s 2025 ESG Report, visit: https://www.sands.com/resources/reports/.

# # #

About Sands (NYSE: LVS)

Sands is the leading global developer and operator of integrated resorts. The company’s iconic properties drive valuable leisure and business tourism and deliver significant economic benefits, sustained job creation, financial opportunities for local businesses and community investment to help make its host regions ideal places to live, work and visit.

Sands’ portfolio of properties includes Marina Bay Sands® in Singapore and The Venetian® Macao, The Londoner Macao®, The Parisian® Macao, The Plaza® Macao and Four Seasons® Hotel Macao, and Sands® Macao in Macao SAR, China, through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd.

Dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, Sands is anchored by the core tenets of serving people, communities and the planet. The company’s ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices for World and North America, as well as Fortune’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies. To learn more, visit www.sands.com.

Contacts:

Kristin Koca

Sands

702.923.9142 Kristin.Koca@sands.com

Published by Las Vegas Sands on April 9, 2026

LAS VEGAS /3BL/ – Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) has released its latest environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, highlighted by the accomplishment of its 2021-2025 ambitions in the areas of workforce development, community volunteerism and carbon emissions reduction. The company’s goals align with its People, Communities and Planet corporate responsibility pillars.

At the close of 2025, Sands had spent more than $270 million on workforce development initiatives since 2021, surpassing its People pillar ambition to invest $200 million by 2025. In 2025, the company invested nearly $53 million in programs to advance job skills and career training for Team Members, hospitality industry professionals and the local labor pool in its regions.

Sands also surpassed its Communities pillar target of contributing 250,000 Team Member volunteer hours by 2025, with more than 290,000 hours amassed between 2021-2025 and nearly 35,000 volunteer hours logged for 82 nonprofit organizations in 2025.

Under the Planet pillar, Sands reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 54% in 2025 from a 2018 base year, achieving its Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)-validated 17.5% reduction target as well as its 1.5°C-aligned 30% reduction target in line with the United Nations Paris Agreement. The company supported accomplishment of these targets by accelerating renewable energy use and increasing energy attribute certificate purchases from 8% to 31% during the reporting cycle.

In addition to these primary ambitions, Sands made advancements in other People, Communities and Planet priorities.

People – Beyond its 2021-2025 workforce development investment, which encompassed 235 partnerships with universities and 116 new Team Member development programs, Sands continued to place priority on working with local businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in support of its regions’ economic health. In 2025, the company procured $2 billion in goods and services from local businesses in its regions, including $437 million from diverse businesses and SMEs. During the full 2021-2025 reporting period, the company spent $1.7 billion with SMEs in Macao alone.

Communities – Along with its priority on community volunteer service, Sands provided $11 million in philanthropic contributions to nonprofit organizations in 2025 and $53 million in sponsorships to support its regions’ cultural events and programs during the 2021-2025 reporting cycle. Helping nonprofits build their capacity through funding and mentorship remained a top priority, headlined by the Sands Cares Accelerator, which incubates the strategic goals of nonprofits over three years and graduated its sixth member at the end of 2025.

Over the five-year reporting period, helping regions navigate the pandemic and other crisis situations was a primary focus, with Sands contributing substantial Team Member volunteer time, emergency-response supplies, in-kind donations and funding for COVID-19 support around the world. The company’s regions also continued their long-standing tradition of aiding people facing hardships by assembling and donating more than 300,000 hygiene and emergency kits through the Sands Cares Global Hygiene Kit Build with Clean the World and other local emergency preparedness initiatives.

Planet – In addition to maintaining achievement of its emissions-reduction target, Sands achieved other milestones in its priority areas of waste diversion, incorporation of sustainable materials and resources, and water stewardship led by the Sands ECO360 global sustainability program. By the end of 2025, the company had increased operational waste diversion by 10% over a 2019 base year, surpassing its 5% target. Sands’ properties also prevented, rescued or diverted 36% of food waste in 2025, well above the company’s 25% target. In support of its global commitment to reduce food waste, Sands donated 52 metric tons of unserved food to local hunger relief organizations during the five-year reporting period.

In line with its focus on increasing use of sustainable materials and resources, Sands successfully transitioned all company-branded water bottles to reusable solutions or sustainable materials as of August 2025. The company also set a target to procure 100% cage-free eggs by 2028 and made strong progress by achieving 40% sourcing at the end of 2025. Finally, Sands reduced potable water use intensity by 8% in 2025 from the 2019 base year, surpassing its 3% reduction target.

“The 2021-2025 reporting period was a time of resilience and sheer determination to reach our targets with the significant challenges the pandemic brought to the hospitality industry in the early part of the cycle,” Katarina Tesarova, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, said. “We remained committed to our goals throughout every stage, and the credit for achievement of our ESG targets goes to our Team Members around the world.”

Underscoring Sands’ ESG performance in 2025, the company was included on Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2026 list, Newsweek’s 2026 America’s Greenest Companies and 2026 America’s Most Responsible Companies lists, and CDP’s 2025 A-List for Climate Change.

To read the company’s 2025 ESG Report, visit: https://www.sands.com/resources/reports/.

# # #

About Sands (NYSE: LVS)

Sands is the leading global developer and operator of integrated resorts. The company’s iconic properties drive valuable leisure and business tourism and deliver significant economic benefits, sustained job creation, financial opportunities for local businesses and community investment to help make its host regions ideal places to live, work and visit.

Sands’ portfolio of properties includes Marina Bay Sands® in Singapore and The Venetian® Macao, The Londoner Macao®, The Parisian® Macao, The Plaza® Macao and Four Seasons® Hotel Macao, and Sands® Macao in Macao SAR, China, through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd.

Dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, Sands is anchored by the core tenets of serving people, communities and the planet. The company’s ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices for World and North America, as well as Fortune’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies. To learn more, visit www.sands.com.

Contacts:

Kristin Koca

Sands

702.923.9142 Kristin.Koca@sands.com

Published by Las Vegas Sands on April 9, 2026

LAS VEGAS /3BL/ – Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) has released its latest environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, highlighted by the accomplishment of its 2021-2025 ambitions in the areas of workforce development, community volunteerism and carbon emissions reduction. The company’s goals align with its People, Communities and Planet corporate responsibility pillars.

At the close of 2025, Sands had spent more than $270 million on workforce development initiatives since 2021, surpassing its People pillar ambition to invest $200 million by 2025. In 2025, the company invested nearly $53 million in programs to advance job skills and career training for Team Members, hospitality industry professionals and the local labor pool in its regions.

Sands also surpassed its Communities pillar target of contributing 250,000 Team Member volunteer hours by 2025, with more than 290,000 hours amassed between 2021-2025 and nearly 35,000 volunteer hours logged for 82 nonprofit organizations in 2025.

Under the Planet pillar, Sands reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 54% in 2025 from a 2018 base year, achieving its Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)-validated 17.5% reduction target as well as its 1.5°C-aligned 30% reduction target in line with the United Nations Paris Agreement. The company supported accomplishment of these targets by accelerating renewable energy use and increasing energy attribute certificate purchases from 8% to 31% during the reporting cycle.

In addition to these primary ambitions, Sands made advancements in other People, Communities and Planet priorities.

People – Beyond its 2021-2025 workforce development investment, which encompassed 235 partnerships with universities and 116 new Team Member development programs, Sands continued to place priority on working with local businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in support of its regions’ economic health. In 2025, the company procured $2 billion in goods and services from local businesses in its regions, including $437 million from diverse businesses and SMEs. During the full 2021-2025 reporting period, the company spent $1.7 billion with SMEs in Macao alone.

Communities – Along with its priority on community volunteer service, Sands provided $11 million in philanthropic contributions to nonprofit organizations in 2025 and $53 million in sponsorships to support its regions’ cultural events and programs during the 2021-2025 reporting cycle. Helping nonprofits build their capacity through funding and mentorship remained a top priority, headlined by the Sands Cares Accelerator, which incubates the strategic goals of nonprofits over three years and graduated its sixth member at the end of 2025.

Over the five-year reporting period, helping regions navigate the pandemic and other crisis situations was a primary focus, with Sands contributing substantial Team Member volunteer time, emergency-response supplies, in-kind donations and funding for COVID-19 support around the world. The company’s regions also continued their long-standing tradition of aiding people facing hardships by assembling and donating more than 300,000 hygiene and emergency kits through the Sands Cares Global Hygiene Kit Build with Clean the World and other local emergency preparedness initiatives.

Planet – In addition to maintaining achievement of its emissions-reduction target, Sands achieved other milestones in its priority areas of waste diversion, incorporation of sustainable materials and resources, and water stewardship led by the Sands ECO360 global sustainability program. By the end of 2025, the company had increased operational waste diversion by 10% over a 2019 base year, surpassing its 5% target. Sands’ properties also prevented, rescued or diverted 36% of food waste in 2025, well above the company’s 25% target. In support of its global commitment to reduce food waste, Sands donated 52 metric tons of unserved food to local hunger relief organizations during the five-year reporting period.

In line with its focus on increasing use of sustainable materials and resources, Sands successfully transitioned all company-branded water bottles to reusable solutions or sustainable materials as of August 2025. The company also set a target to procure 100% cage-free eggs by 2028 and made strong progress by achieving 40% sourcing at the end of 2025. Finally, Sands reduced potable water use intensity by 8% in 2025 from the 2019 base year, surpassing its 3% reduction target.

“The 2021-2025 reporting period was a time of resilience and sheer determination to reach our targets with the significant challenges the pandemic brought to the hospitality industry in the early part of the cycle,” Katarina Tesarova, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, said. “We remained committed to our goals throughout every stage, and the credit for achievement of our ESG targets goes to our Team Members around the world.”

Underscoring Sands’ ESG performance in 2025, the company was included on Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2026 list, Newsweek’s 2026 America’s Greenest Companies and 2026 America’s Most Responsible Companies lists, and CDP’s 2025 A-List for Climate Change.

To read the company’s 2025 ESG Report, visit: https://www.sands.com/resources/reports/.

# # #

About Sands (NYSE: LVS)

Sands is the leading global developer and operator of integrated resorts. The company’s iconic properties drive valuable leisure and business tourism and deliver significant economic benefits, sustained job creation, financial opportunities for local businesses and community investment to help make its host regions ideal places to live, work and visit.

Sands’ portfolio of properties includes Marina Bay Sands® in Singapore and The Venetian® Macao, The Londoner Macao®, The Parisian® Macao, The Plaza® Macao and Four Seasons® Hotel Macao, and Sands® Macao in Macao SAR, China, through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd.

Dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, Sands is anchored by the core tenets of serving people, communities and the planet. The company’s ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices for World and North America, as well as Fortune’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies. To learn more, visit www.sands.com.

Contacts:

Kristin Koca

Sands

702.923.9142 Kristin.Koca@sands.com

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

At first glance, James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, looks like any other bustling pediatric center. But look a little closer — down near knee level — and you might spot an unexpected team member trotting confidently beside a Child Life Specialist: a golden retriever-Labrador-doodle mix named Samus Aran, or “Sam” for short.

Sam isn’t just any hospital visitor. She’s the hospital’s first full‑time facility dog, a milestone for Maynard Children’s Hospital and one that has captured the hearts of patients, families and staff alike.

Sam is one of many specially trained facility dogs in hospitals across the country that are becoming an important part of pediatric cancer care, offering comfort, motivation and emotional support to young patients facing some of the toughest treatments of their lives.

Since joining the team in 2023 — after years of planning, advocacy, and training — Sam has worked alongside Child Life Specialists to help children manage their hospital experiences through play, relaxation and companionship. Her presence has brought many smiles to patients undergoing treatment, including those in pediatric oncology units, and she’s quickly become a cherished member of the team.

A hero’s origin story

The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation was one of the first supporters of the Maynard Canine Crew through the Aflac Child Life Grant program, which has assisted with veterinary care, grooming and other canine necessities since Sam’s arrival in 2023.

“Facility dogs like Sam bring a level of comfort and connection that can change a child’s entire hospital experience,” said Buffy Swinehart, senior manager, Aflac Corporate Social Responsibility. “Supporting Child Life services is central to Aflac’s mission, because every child deserves to feel safe, supported and cared for during their medical journey, and Sam delivers that like he’s, well, a best friend.”

Sam’s name may ring a bell, as she’s named after a character in a popular video game. But while her namesake battles alien threats, this Sam uses her superpowers for something closer to home: comfort, connection and emotional support.

Born on April 9, 2022, Sam was raised and trained through Canine Assistants, a program known for its bond‑based approach — meaning Sam doesn’t follow strict commands but instead reads emotional cues and adapts to what each child needs. Her training included exposure to hospital environments and some field training in Atlanta, preparing her to navigate common hospital fixtures like walkers and wheelchairs.

A day in the life of a four‑legged healer

Now, as a full‑time member of the Maynard Canine Crew, Sam works 40 hours a week, making her a reliable presence during some of the hardest moments a child or family may experience. But don’t let the professional vest fool you — Sam is also a goofy girl with a love of apples, peanut butter cookies and all sorts of toys.

While Sam delivers cuddles in abundance, she’s specially trained to help children cope with anxiety, medical procedures and long hospital stays. Her therapeutic toolkit includes:

• Modeling how to lie still for imaging or other procedures
• Snuggling with children during stressful moments
• Reducing fear with her friendly, nonjudgmental presence
• Helping motivate children to walk, play or complete physical goals
• Demonstrating tasks like taking medicine from a syringe (yes, she practices this!)

“A lot of times it’s easier for kids to trust a dog than a person they don’t know,” said Ashton Ayers, Child Life Specialist and Sam’s handler. “Sam analyzes what someone needs and helps make the hospital feel more normal and less scary by helping prepare patients for treatments and procedures, and showing lots of love in the process.”

A hospital hallway becomes a little more like home

Research shows that interactions with therapy animals can reduce stress, ease anxiety and promote emotional well-being for children in hospital settings.¹ Spend even a few minutes watching Sam work, and it’s easy to see how her presence transforms the hospital environment — children who haven’t smiled all day break into laughter when she trots in with a toy in her mouth.

And it’s not just the children benefiting from her talents — Sam has become a grounding force for the hospital staff as well. The work of caring for critically ill children can be emotionally heavy, and the presence of a gentle, canine coworker can bring a sense of comfort.

Programs like Maynard Canine Crew demonstrate how animal-assisted interventions can transform a clinical environment into one that feels safer, more hopeful and, sometimes, a little more like home.

Learn more and support the mission

Want to learn more about how Aflac supports children and families facing childhood cancer and blood disorders, including initiatives like this one? Visit: AflacChildhoodCancer.org.

¹ Kelker HP, Siddiqui HK, Beck AM, Kline JA (March 14, 2025). Therapy Dogs for Anxiety in Children in the Emergency Department: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2831511

Aflac includes Aflac and/or Aflac New York and/or Continental American Insurance Company and /or Continental American Life Insurance Company.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation for insurance.

WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999
Z2600241 
Exp. 4/27

 

 

 

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

At first glance, James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, looks like any other bustling pediatric center. But look a little closer — down near knee level — and you might spot an unexpected team member trotting confidently beside a Child Life Specialist: a golden retriever-Labrador-doodle mix named Samus Aran, or “Sam” for short.

Sam isn’t just any hospital visitor. She’s the hospital’s first full‑time facility dog, a milestone for Maynard Children’s Hospital and one that has captured the hearts of patients, families and staff alike.

Sam is one of many specially trained facility dogs in hospitals across the country that are becoming an important part of pediatric cancer care, offering comfort, motivation and emotional support to young patients facing some of the toughest treatments of their lives.

Since joining the team in 2023 — after years of planning, advocacy, and training — Sam has worked alongside Child Life Specialists to help children manage their hospital experiences through play, relaxation and companionship. Her presence has brought many smiles to patients undergoing treatment, including those in pediatric oncology units, and she’s quickly become a cherished member of the team.

A hero’s origin story

The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation was one of the first supporters of the Maynard Canine Crew through the Aflac Child Life Grant program, which has assisted with veterinary care, grooming and other canine necessities since Sam’s arrival in 2023.

“Facility dogs like Sam bring a level of comfort and connection that can change a child’s entire hospital experience,” said Buffy Swinehart, senior manager, Aflac Corporate Social Responsibility. “Supporting Child Life services is central to Aflac’s mission, because every child deserves to feel safe, supported and cared for during their medical journey, and Sam delivers that like he’s, well, a best friend.”

Sam’s name may ring a bell, as she’s named after a character in a popular video game. But while her namesake battles alien threats, this Sam uses her superpowers for something closer to home: comfort, connection and emotional support.

Born on April 9, 2022, Sam was raised and trained through Canine Assistants, a program known for its bond‑based approach — meaning Sam doesn’t follow strict commands but instead reads emotional cues and adapts to what each child needs. Her training included exposure to hospital environments and some field training in Atlanta, preparing her to navigate common hospital fixtures like walkers and wheelchairs.

A day in the life of a four‑legged healer

Now, as a full‑time member of the Maynard Canine Crew, Sam works 40 hours a week, making her a reliable presence during some of the hardest moments a child or family may experience. But don’t let the professional vest fool you — Sam is also a goofy girl with a love of apples, peanut butter cookies and all sorts of toys.

While Sam delivers cuddles in abundance, she’s specially trained to help children cope with anxiety, medical procedures and long hospital stays. Her therapeutic toolkit includes:

• Modeling how to lie still for imaging or other procedures
• Snuggling with children during stressful moments
• Reducing fear with her friendly, nonjudgmental presence
• Helping motivate children to walk, play or complete physical goals
• Demonstrating tasks like taking medicine from a syringe (yes, she practices this!)

“A lot of times it’s easier for kids to trust a dog than a person they don’t know,” said Ashton Ayers, Child Life Specialist and Sam’s handler. “Sam analyzes what someone needs and helps make the hospital feel more normal and less scary by helping prepare patients for treatments and procedures, and showing lots of love in the process.”

A hospital hallway becomes a little more like home

Research shows that interactions with therapy animals can reduce stress, ease anxiety and promote emotional well-being for children in hospital settings.¹ Spend even a few minutes watching Sam work, and it’s easy to see how her presence transforms the hospital environment — children who haven’t smiled all day break into laughter when she trots in with a toy in her mouth.

And it’s not just the children benefiting from her talents — Sam has become a grounding force for the hospital staff as well. The work of caring for critically ill children can be emotionally heavy, and the presence of a gentle, canine coworker can bring a sense of comfort.

Programs like Maynard Canine Crew demonstrate how animal-assisted interventions can transform a clinical environment into one that feels safer, more hopeful and, sometimes, a little more like home.

Learn more and support the mission

Want to learn more about how Aflac supports children and families facing childhood cancer and blood disorders, including initiatives like this one? Visit: AflacChildhoodCancer.org.

¹ Kelker HP, Siddiqui HK, Beck AM, Kline JA (March 14, 2025). Therapy Dogs for Anxiety in Children in the Emergency Department: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2831511

Aflac includes Aflac and/or Aflac New York and/or Continental American Insurance Company and /or Continental American Life Insurance Company.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation for insurance.

WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999
Z2600241 
Exp. 4/27

 

 

 

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

At first glance, James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, looks like any other bustling pediatric center. But look a little closer — down near knee level — and you might spot an unexpected team member trotting confidently beside a Child Life Specialist: a golden retriever-Labrador-doodle mix named Samus Aran, or “Sam” for short.

Sam isn’t just any hospital visitor. She’s the hospital’s first full‑time facility dog, a milestone for Maynard Children’s Hospital and one that has captured the hearts of patients, families and staff alike.

Sam is one of many specially trained facility dogs in hospitals across the country that are becoming an important part of pediatric cancer care, offering comfort, motivation and emotional support to young patients facing some of the toughest treatments of their lives.

Since joining the team in 2023 — after years of planning, advocacy, and training — Sam has worked alongside Child Life Specialists to help children manage their hospital experiences through play, relaxation and companionship. Her presence has brought many smiles to patients undergoing treatment, including those in pediatric oncology units, and she’s quickly become a cherished member of the team.

A hero’s origin story

The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation was one of the first supporters of the Maynard Canine Crew through the Aflac Child Life Grant program, which has assisted with veterinary care, grooming and other canine necessities since Sam’s arrival in 2023.

“Facility dogs like Sam bring a level of comfort and connection that can change a child’s entire hospital experience,” said Buffy Swinehart, senior manager, Aflac Corporate Social Responsibility. “Supporting Child Life services is central to Aflac’s mission, because every child deserves to feel safe, supported and cared for during their medical journey, and Sam delivers that like he’s, well, a best friend.”

Sam’s name may ring a bell, as she’s named after a character in a popular video game. But while her namesake battles alien threats, this Sam uses her superpowers for something closer to home: comfort, connection and emotional support.

Born on April 9, 2022, Sam was raised and trained through Canine Assistants, a program known for its bond‑based approach — meaning Sam doesn’t follow strict commands but instead reads emotional cues and adapts to what each child needs. Her training included exposure to hospital environments and some field training in Atlanta, preparing her to navigate common hospital fixtures like walkers and wheelchairs.

A day in the life of a four‑legged healer

Now, as a full‑time member of the Maynard Canine Crew, Sam works 40 hours a week, making her a reliable presence during some of the hardest moments a child or family may experience. But don’t let the professional vest fool you — Sam is also a goofy girl with a love of apples, peanut butter cookies and all sorts of toys.

While Sam delivers cuddles in abundance, she’s specially trained to help children cope with anxiety, medical procedures and long hospital stays. Her therapeutic toolkit includes:

• Modeling how to lie still for imaging or other procedures
• Snuggling with children during stressful moments
• Reducing fear with her friendly, nonjudgmental presence
• Helping motivate children to walk, play or complete physical goals
• Demonstrating tasks like taking medicine from a syringe (yes, she practices this!)

“A lot of times it’s easier for kids to trust a dog than a person they don’t know,” said Ashton Ayers, Child Life Specialist and Sam’s handler. “Sam analyzes what someone needs and helps make the hospital feel more normal and less scary by helping prepare patients for treatments and procedures, and showing lots of love in the process.”

A hospital hallway becomes a little more like home

Research shows that interactions with therapy animals can reduce stress, ease anxiety and promote emotional well-being for children in hospital settings.¹ Spend even a few minutes watching Sam work, and it’s easy to see how her presence transforms the hospital environment — children who haven’t smiled all day break into laughter when she trots in with a toy in her mouth.

And it’s not just the children benefiting from her talents — Sam has become a grounding force for the hospital staff as well. The work of caring for critically ill children can be emotionally heavy, and the presence of a gentle, canine coworker can bring a sense of comfort.

Programs like Maynard Canine Crew demonstrate how animal-assisted interventions can transform a clinical environment into one that feels safer, more hopeful and, sometimes, a little more like home.

Learn more and support the mission

Want to learn more about how Aflac supports children and families facing childhood cancer and blood disorders, including initiatives like this one? Visit: AflacChildhoodCancer.org.

¹ Kelker HP, Siddiqui HK, Beck AM, Kline JA (March 14, 2025). Therapy Dogs for Anxiety in Children in the Emergency Department: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2831511

Aflac includes Aflac and/or Aflac New York and/or Continental American Insurance Company and /or Continental American Life Insurance Company.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation for insurance.

WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999
Z2600241 
Exp. 4/27

 

 

 

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

At first glance, James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, looks like any other bustling pediatric center. But look a little closer — down near knee level — and you might spot an unexpected team member trotting confidently beside a Child Life Specialist: a golden retriever-Labrador-doodle mix named Samus Aran, or “Sam” for short.

Sam isn’t just any hospital visitor. She’s the hospital’s first full‑time facility dog, a milestone for Maynard Children’s Hospital and one that has captured the hearts of patients, families and staff alike.

Sam is one of many specially trained facility dogs in hospitals across the country that are becoming an important part of pediatric cancer care, offering comfort, motivation and emotional support to young patients facing some of the toughest treatments of their lives.

Since joining the team in 2023 — after years of planning, advocacy, and training — Sam has worked alongside Child Life Specialists to help children manage their hospital experiences through play, relaxation and companionship. Her presence has brought many smiles to patients undergoing treatment, including those in pediatric oncology units, and she’s quickly become a cherished member of the team.

A hero’s origin story

The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation was one of the first supporters of the Maynard Canine Crew through the Aflac Child Life Grant program, which has assisted with veterinary care, grooming and other canine necessities since Sam’s arrival in 2023.

“Facility dogs like Sam bring a level of comfort and connection that can change a child’s entire hospital experience,” said Buffy Swinehart, senior manager, Aflac Corporate Social Responsibility. “Supporting Child Life services is central to Aflac’s mission, because every child deserves to feel safe, supported and cared for during their medical journey, and Sam delivers that like he’s, well, a best friend.”

Sam’s name may ring a bell, as she’s named after a character in a popular video game. But while her namesake battles alien threats, this Sam uses her superpowers for something closer to home: comfort, connection and emotional support.

Born on April 9, 2022, Sam was raised and trained through Canine Assistants, a program known for its bond‑based approach — meaning Sam doesn’t follow strict commands but instead reads emotional cues and adapts to what each child needs. Her training included exposure to hospital environments and some field training in Atlanta, preparing her to navigate common hospital fixtures like walkers and wheelchairs.

A day in the life of a four‑legged healer

Now, as a full‑time member of the Maynard Canine Crew, Sam works 40 hours a week, making her a reliable presence during some of the hardest moments a child or family may experience. But don’t let the professional vest fool you — Sam is also a goofy girl with a love of apples, peanut butter cookies and all sorts of toys.

While Sam delivers cuddles in abundance, she’s specially trained to help children cope with anxiety, medical procedures and long hospital stays. Her therapeutic toolkit includes:

• Modeling how to lie still for imaging or other procedures
• Snuggling with children during stressful moments
• Reducing fear with her friendly, nonjudgmental presence
• Helping motivate children to walk, play or complete physical goals
• Demonstrating tasks like taking medicine from a syringe (yes, she practices this!)

“A lot of times it’s easier for kids to trust a dog than a person they don’t know,” said Ashton Ayers, Child Life Specialist and Sam’s handler. “Sam analyzes what someone needs and helps make the hospital feel more normal and less scary by helping prepare patients for treatments and procedures, and showing lots of love in the process.”

A hospital hallway becomes a little more like home

Research shows that interactions with therapy animals can reduce stress, ease anxiety and promote emotional well-being for children in hospital settings.¹ Spend even a few minutes watching Sam work, and it’s easy to see how her presence transforms the hospital environment — children who haven’t smiled all day break into laughter when she trots in with a toy in her mouth.

And it’s not just the children benefiting from her talents — Sam has become a grounding force for the hospital staff as well. The work of caring for critically ill children can be emotionally heavy, and the presence of a gentle, canine coworker can bring a sense of comfort.

Programs like Maynard Canine Crew demonstrate how animal-assisted interventions can transform a clinical environment into one that feels safer, more hopeful and, sometimes, a little more like home.

Learn more and support the mission

Want to learn more about how Aflac supports children and families facing childhood cancer and blood disorders, including initiatives like this one? Visit: AflacChildhoodCancer.org.

¹ Kelker HP, Siddiqui HK, Beck AM, Kline JA (March 14, 2025). Therapy Dogs for Anxiety in Children in the Emergency Department: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2831511

Aflac includes Aflac and/or Aflac New York and/or Continental American Insurance Company and /or Continental American Life Insurance Company.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation for insurance.

WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999
Z2600241 
Exp. 4/27

 

 

 

PALM SPRINGS, Calif., April 16, 2026 /3BL/ – Engage for Good today named Keep America Beautiful as its 2026 Nonprofit of the Year in recognition of the organization’s decades-long commitment to building cleaner, greener, and more vibrant communities, along with its pioneering model for how community action can unite people through shared purpose, pride, and a sense of belonging.

The Halo Awards annually recognize organizations that define the gold standard for what effective corporate–nonprofit partnerships look like. This year’s Nonprofit of the Year Award reflects Keep America Beautiful’s long legacy of educating the public and bringing together the business sector, governments, and local communities as shared stewards of clean, vibrant public spaces.

Since its founding in 1953, Keep America Beautiful has worked to raise awareness, inspire action, and advance practical solutions to reduce litter and improve recycling rates, while bringing people together to improve their neighborhoods and support vibrant communities. Through its partnerships with companies including Anheuser-Busch, The Coca-Cola Company, Niagara Cares, Altria, and Reynolds American, Keep America Beautiful continues to create accessible, meaningful pathways for people to care for the places they call home and work together to improve them.

“For more than 70 years, Keep America Beautiful has done something rare – built a model that turns corporate and community partnerships into tangible, visible change,” said Muneer Panjwani, CEO of Engage for Good. “Their work proves that when people feel genuinely connected to a place, they act to protect it. That’s exactly the kind of impact this award was created to celebrate.”

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from Engage for Good,” said Jennifer Lawson, President and CEO of Keep America Beautiful. “We have always believed the biggest challenges are solved when people come together in partnership. When communities, systems, and partners move together, progress follows.”

In announcing the award, Engage for Good cited Keep America Beautiful’s sustained positive impact on communities across the country through its network of 763 local affiliates. In 2025, more than 2.3 million Keep America Beautiful’s million volunteers planted more than 190,000 miles of plants and trees, improved 621,000 acres of public land, and picked up 18 million pounds of litter at more than 60,000 cleanup events, delivering $64 million in value to local communities. In 2024, Keep America Beautiful launched the Greatest American Cleanup, a national campaign to pick up millions of pieces of litter and plant red, white, and blue flowers across the nation in honor of America’s 250th Birthday on July 4, 2026.

The award will be presented to Keep America Beautiful at the Halo Awards Gala during the Engage for Good Conference, taking place April 21–24 in Palm Springs, California. The event will bring together more than 700 corporate and nonprofit leaders to explore the strategies, partnerships, and innovations shaping the future of social impact.

About the Halo Awards

Now in its 24th year, the Halo Awards are the social impact sector’s longest-running recognition of excellence in corporate–nonprofit partnerships. Past awardees include Google, Procter & Gamble, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Macy’s, and more.

“The organizations that win this award aren’t just doing good work, they’re raising the bar for what this field expects of itself,” Panjwani added. “A Halo Award tells your partners, your leadership, and the communities you serve that your impact isn’t incidental, it’s strategic, rigorous, and built to last.”

Registration is open at https://events.engageforgood.com/conference.

# # # #

About Engage for Good

For more than two decades, Engage for Good (EFG) has been the trusted home for corporate and nonprofit leaders building partnerships that deliver real results. EFG has equipped leaders shaping cause marketing, CSR, ESG, and nonprofit partnership strategy with the connections, best practices, and community they need to build high-impact partnerships that drive both business and social value. With a community of over 19,000 impact leaders, EFG’s programs include the annual Engage for Good Conference, The Halo Awards, membership for impact professionals, and consulting services for nonprofits and companies. Learn more at engageforgood.com.

About Keep America Beautiful®:

Keep America Beautiful, founded in 1953, is a national nonprofit that inspires and educates people to take action every day to improve and beautify their community environment. Through its powerful network of community-based affiliates, millions of volunteers, and strategic partners, Keep America Beautiful brings people together to transform public spaces into beautiful places. Join us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Donate and take action at kab.org.

AUSTIN, Texas, April 16, 2026 /3BL/ – Wells Fargo, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) and Foundation Communities celebrated the grand opening of the 156-unit Norman Commons affordable apartment complex that will support families and individuals in Austin, Texas. The development received a $1.75 million grant from FHLB Dallas through Wells Fargo to assist with development costs.

The $58 million complex was developed by Foundation Communities and the Austin Housing Finance Corp. adjacent to Norman‑Sims Elementary and includes 10 percent of its units that prioritize families experiencing homelessness. A learning center provides free afterschool and summer programs for children, a healthy food pantry and classes for adults.

To cultivate a sense of place, developers partnered with local artists to create a public art piece that honors the neighborhood’s history and the culture of Black cowboys, who still ride in the neighborhood today.

“We’re grateful for the AHP grant that helped make Norman Commons possible, and we’re proud to open a community that provides Austin families with stability and opportunity,” said Walter Moreau, executive director of Foundation Communities.

AHP grants are awarded annually through FHLB Dallas member institutions to support development and rehabilitation of affordable housing for low-income households.

“Wells Fargo is proud to continue its longstanding support of Foundation Communities and help extend its community impact through FHLB Dallas AHP grants,” said Christopher Rios, Wells Fargo regional vice president. “Norman Commons reflects our shared commitment to expanding housing access and affordability in Austin.”

The application period for the 2026 funding cycle is now open through April 30. Applications must be made through an FHLB Dallas member. Last year, FHLB Dallas awarded $73.5 million in AHP grants across six states.

“It’s great to see Norman Commons come to life, and we’re really glad we could help support it with an AHP grant,” said Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas. “Norman Commons gives kids and parents a real chance to grow, connect and build a stronger future together.”

About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank System created by Congress in 1932. FHLB Dallas, with total assets of $108.5 billion as of December 31, 2025, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced loans and other credit products to approximately 800 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas. For more information, visit fhlb.com.

CONTACT:
Corporate Communications> Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
fhlb.com, (214) 441-8445