Tag: 3BL

Electrifying transportation in Georgia is a powerful climate solution, and the benefits of upgrading to electric school buses go beyond carbon. The transition to electric buses supports the local economy and can positively impact our kids’ health, too.

We recently spoke with representatives from Drawdown Georgia Climate Solutions & Equity grant recipient Mothers & Others for Clean Air about their partnership with the Georgia State Medical Association and Georgia Clinicians for Climate Action to advance the transition to electric school buses in Georgia’s school districts.

Read the full blog here to learn more about the exciting work this grant is funding, and how these grant partners are taking action to support schools, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve local air quality across the state.

Electrifying transportation in Georgia is a powerful climate solution, and the benefits of upgrading to electric school buses go beyond carbon. The transition to electric buses supports the local economy and can positively impact our kids’ health, too.

We recently spoke with representatives from Drawdown Georgia Climate Solutions & Equity grant recipient Mothers & Others for Clean Air about their partnership with the Georgia State Medical Association and Georgia Clinicians for Climate Action to advance the transition to electric school buses in Georgia’s school districts.

Read the full blog here to learn more about the exciting work this grant is funding, and how these grant partners are taking action to support schools, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve local air quality across the state.

Originally published in Osceola County Lifestyle Magazine

by Melissa Donovan

On October 17, Wesco, a Fortune 500 company, strengthened its commitment to community welfare by partnering with Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County to support Habitat’s Home Preservation Program. This program aims to provide vital education, inspections, and repairs to residents, ensuring they can maintain safe and affordable homes, particularly during and after hurricane season.

The Need for Home Preservation 

In Central Florida, where the impact of hurricane season looms large, the need for robust home preservation initiatives cannot be overstated. The Home Preservation Program addresses critical issues residents may face when struggling to maintain their homes due to financial constraints or lack of resources. This program offers services that focus on the physical integrity of homes and empower families through education and support.

“We are incredibly grateful to Wesco for their continued generosity, commitment to and understanding of our mission,” Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County President and CEO Catherine Steck McManus said. “Their contribution will significantly strengthen our Home Preservation Program that makes lasting impacts on the lives of homeowners and help create stronger, more resilient communities.”

The donation from Wesco will support education, free wind mitigation, and 4-point inspections for those who qualify, which are essential inspections when looking at the structural integrity and safety of homes.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County has long been at the forefront of tackling housing insecurity. Founded in 1986, the nonprofit has built, rehabilitated, or repaired over 900 homes in the region. Through initiatives like Face the Housing Crisis™ and the Cornerstone Housing™ Initiative, Habitat is actively addressing the complex and pressing issue of affordable housing in Central Florida, a challenge that deeply affects community well-being and stability.

Wesco’s Commitment to Community 

Wesco’s support of Habitat’s Home Preservation Program reflects the company’s dedication to social responsibility and community engagement. With annual sales of about $22 billion and a workforce of approximately 20,000 employees, Wesco has established itself as a leader in providing electrical, communications, security, and utility solutions. Their global presence, with nearly 800 locations across more than 50 countries, allows Wesco to leverage its resources effectively to make a meaningful impact.

“Natural disasters such as hurricanes Milton and Helene have devastating effects on our community, and we must take preventative measures to ensure homes are as safe and secure as possible,” Chris Wolf, Wesco Chief Human Resources Officer and executive sponsor for Wesco Cares said. “We encourage other organizations to support Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County in their mission to create and maintain affordable housing in our community.”

The donation is not merely financial. A group of Wesco team members rolled up their sleeves to volunteer on-site, assisting with the framing and sheathing of walls for a Habitat home under construction in Orlando’s Holden Heights neighborhood. This hands-on involvement illustrates Wesco’s commitment to fostering community connections and directly contributing to the housing needs of local families.

Building a Brighter Future 

The collaboration between Wesco and Habitat for Humanity is a beacon of hope for many families in Central Florida. As Habitat continues to fight against the affordable housing crisis, partnerships like this one are crucial. They not only provide immediate assistance through physical repairs and improvements but also lay the groundwork for long-term stability and resilience in the community.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County’s achievements speak volumes. As one of the top 40 producers among over 1,100 Habitat for Humanity International affiliates, their effective model has gained recognition and trust, making them a critical player in the fight for affordable housing. Their role as a HUD-certified local Housing Counseling Agency further underscores their commitment to empowering families with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.

Through supporting essential programs like Home Preservation, Wesco contributes to residents’ immediate safety and stability and residents but also inspires a broader movement towards sustainable housing solutions in Central Florida.

This collaboration serves as a reminder that together, businesses and nonprofits can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families. As hurricane season may be coming to a close soon, the work of Habitat and the support of partners like Wesco become increasingly vital. With continued engagement, education, and hands-on efforts, the dream of safe, affordable housing for all can move closer to reality. For more information on Habitat for Humanity and its ongoing initiatives, visit HabitatOrlando.org.

Originally published in Osceola County Lifestyle Magazine

by Melissa Donovan

On October 17, Wesco, a Fortune 500 company, strengthened its commitment to community welfare by partnering with Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County to support Habitat’s Home Preservation Program. This program aims to provide vital education, inspections, and repairs to residents, ensuring they can maintain safe and affordable homes, particularly during and after hurricane season.

The Need for Home Preservation 

In Central Florida, where the impact of hurricane season looms large, the need for robust home preservation initiatives cannot be overstated. The Home Preservation Program addresses critical issues residents may face when struggling to maintain their homes due to financial constraints or lack of resources. This program offers services that focus on the physical integrity of homes and empower families through education and support.

“We are incredibly grateful to Wesco for their continued generosity, commitment to and understanding of our mission,” Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County President and CEO Catherine Steck McManus said. “Their contribution will significantly strengthen our Home Preservation Program that makes lasting impacts on the lives of homeowners and help create stronger, more resilient communities.”

The donation from Wesco will support education, free wind mitigation, and 4-point inspections for those who qualify, which are essential inspections when looking at the structural integrity and safety of homes.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County has long been at the forefront of tackling housing insecurity. Founded in 1986, the nonprofit has built, rehabilitated, or repaired over 900 homes in the region. Through initiatives like Face the Housing Crisis™ and the Cornerstone Housing™ Initiative, Habitat is actively addressing the complex and pressing issue of affordable housing in Central Florida, a challenge that deeply affects community well-being and stability.

Wesco’s Commitment to Community 

Wesco’s support of Habitat’s Home Preservation Program reflects the company’s dedication to social responsibility and community engagement. With annual sales of about $22 billion and a workforce of approximately 20,000 employees, Wesco has established itself as a leader in providing electrical, communications, security, and utility solutions. Their global presence, with nearly 800 locations across more than 50 countries, allows Wesco to leverage its resources effectively to make a meaningful impact.

“Natural disasters such as hurricanes Milton and Helene have devastating effects on our community, and we must take preventative measures to ensure homes are as safe and secure as possible,” Chris Wolf, Wesco Chief Human Resources Officer and executive sponsor for Wesco Cares said. “We encourage other organizations to support Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County in their mission to create and maintain affordable housing in our community.”

The donation is not merely financial. A group of Wesco team members rolled up their sleeves to volunteer on-site, assisting with the framing and sheathing of walls for a Habitat home under construction in Orlando’s Holden Heights neighborhood. This hands-on involvement illustrates Wesco’s commitment to fostering community connections and directly contributing to the housing needs of local families.

Building a Brighter Future 

The collaboration between Wesco and Habitat for Humanity is a beacon of hope for many families in Central Florida. As Habitat continues to fight against the affordable housing crisis, partnerships like this one are crucial. They not only provide immediate assistance through physical repairs and improvements but also lay the groundwork for long-term stability and resilience in the community.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County’s achievements speak volumes. As one of the top 40 producers among over 1,100 Habitat for Humanity International affiliates, their effective model has gained recognition and trust, making them a critical player in the fight for affordable housing. Their role as a HUD-certified local Housing Counseling Agency further underscores their commitment to empowering families with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.

Through supporting essential programs like Home Preservation, Wesco contributes to residents’ immediate safety and stability and residents but also inspires a broader movement towards sustainable housing solutions in Central Florida.

This collaboration serves as a reminder that together, businesses and nonprofits can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families. As hurricane season may be coming to a close soon, the work of Habitat and the support of partners like Wesco become increasingly vital. With continued engagement, education, and hands-on efforts, the dream of safe, affordable housing for all can move closer to reality. For more information on Habitat for Humanity and its ongoing initiatives, visit HabitatOrlando.org.

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sargeant Dominic Fernandez stood proudly as he and his family received a new 2024 Chrysler Pacifica minivan. After serving multiple tours of combat overseas and dedicating years of service to his country, it was his time to be served. The vehicle marks the 50th payment-free vehicle donated by U.S. Bank and Freedom Alliance and the 80th vehicle donated by U.S. Bank overall since the inception of the Driven to Serve program in 2018. It also marks the 12th vehicle donated just in 2024.

U.S. Bank has a long history of supporting veterans and active military employees, customers and community members. In addition to vehicles, U.S. Bank also partners with Freedom Alliance and Operation Homefront to donate mortgage-free homes to veterans, providing stabilization for them and their families. Since 2013, U.S. Bank has donated 28 homes to veterans across the United States, with two additional home donations planned by the end of 2024. U.S. Bank has also helped fund 29 critical home repair projects for veterans since 2017.

“Our veterans and servicemembers give everything for our collective freedom. We thank them for their service and sacrifice,” said Greg Cunningham, Chief Diversity Officer for U.S. Bank.

Supporting Employees

U.S. Bank is nationally recognized as one of America’s top corporate supporters of veterans and military families. The bank recently ranked #10 in the Military Times Best for Vets 2024 Employers list, marking the third consecutive year U.S. Bank has ranked in the top 10. In addition to partnering with military service and other community organizations, such as Freedom Alliance, U.S. Bank supports veterans and military family members through a suite of military-specific banking products and services.

In 2024, U.S. Bank Proud to Service chapters, the bank’s business resource group for military veterans and active military members, have hosted 42 employee events across the country. More than 1,660 employees have participated in these events. Additionally, more than 20 volunteer events have taken place.

U.S. Bank is thankful for the more than 2,000 military and veteran employees and are proud to be nationally recognized as one of America’s top corporate supporters for veterans and military families which includes our Proud to Serve business resource group.

Supporting Veterans and their families

On the heels of Veterans Day, U.S. Bank was part of the San Diego Fleet Week 2024. As part of the event, the U.S. Bank Good Truck was on hand to promote Spouse-ly, a marketplace which helps military spouses who own small businesses sell their products. Military families often struggle financially, and one in four military spouses is unemployed due to constant relocation. Spouse-ly is committed to supporting military families seeking income-generating opportunities no matter where military life takes them.

Supporting Communities

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance, the community investment and tax credit division of U.S. Bank, recently supported the completion of an affordable housing project benefitting veterans in California. A Jamboree Housing affordable housing development, Buena Esperanza is a former Econo Lodge motel that was revitalized to include 69 studio units of permanent supportive housing for formerly homeless individuals, with 20 reserved for veterans. The development also includes a social gathering place, kitchen and food pantry.

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance and Jamboree have a longstanding partnership, with the first deal closing in 2001. Impact Finance has collaborated with Jamboree to provide about $281 million in debt and $106 million in equity to support its affordable housing projects across California.

For more information visit USBank.com.

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sargeant Dominic Fernandez stood proudly as he and his family received a new 2024 Chrysler Pacifica minivan. After serving multiple tours of combat overseas and dedicating years of service to his country, it was his time to be served. The vehicle marks the 50th payment-free vehicle donated by U.S. Bank and Freedom Alliance and the 80th vehicle donated by U.S. Bank overall since the inception of the Driven to Serve program in 2018. It also marks the 12th vehicle donated just in 2024.

U.S. Bank has a long history of supporting veterans and active military employees, customers and community members. In addition to vehicles, U.S. Bank also partners with Freedom Alliance and Operation Homefront to donate mortgage-free homes to veterans, providing stabilization for them and their families. Since 2013, U.S. Bank has donated 28 homes to veterans across the United States, with two additional home donations planned by the end of 2024. U.S. Bank has also helped fund 29 critical home repair projects for veterans since 2017.

“Our veterans and servicemembers give everything for our collective freedom. We thank them for their service and sacrifice,” said Greg Cunningham, Chief Diversity Officer for U.S. Bank.

Supporting Employees

U.S. Bank is nationally recognized as one of America’s top corporate supporters of veterans and military families. The bank recently ranked #10 in the Military Times Best for Vets 2024 Employers list, marking the third consecutive year U.S. Bank has ranked in the top 10. In addition to partnering with military service and other community organizations, such as Freedom Alliance, U.S. Bank supports veterans and military family members through a suite of military-specific banking products and services.

In 2024, U.S. Bank Proud to Service chapters, the bank’s business resource group for military veterans and active military members, have hosted 42 employee events across the country. More than 1,660 employees have participated in these events. Additionally, more than 20 volunteer events have taken place.

U.S. Bank is thankful for the more than 2,000 military and veteran employees and are proud to be nationally recognized as one of America’s top corporate supporters for veterans and military families which includes our Proud to Serve business resource group.

Supporting Veterans and their families

On the heels of Veterans Day, U.S. Bank was part of the San Diego Fleet Week 2024. As part of the event, the U.S. Bank Good Truck was on hand to promote Spouse-ly, a marketplace which helps military spouses who own small businesses sell their products. Military families often struggle financially, and one in four military spouses is unemployed due to constant relocation. Spouse-ly is committed to supporting military families seeking income-generating opportunities no matter where military life takes them.

Supporting Communities

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance, the community investment and tax credit division of U.S. Bank, recently supported the completion of an affordable housing project benefitting veterans in California. A Jamboree Housing affordable housing development, Buena Esperanza is a former Econo Lodge motel that was revitalized to include 69 studio units of permanent supportive housing for formerly homeless individuals, with 20 reserved for veterans. The development also includes a social gathering place, kitchen and food pantry.

U.S. Bancorp Impact Finance and Jamboree have a longstanding partnership, with the first deal closing in 2001. Impact Finance has collaborated with Jamboree to provide about $281 million in debt and $106 million in equity to support its affordable housing projects across California.

For more information visit USBank.com.

Originally published by Healthcare Business Today

Governmental organizations are seeing the immense economic and societal benefits of AI. Comprehensive guidelines and regulatory frameworks are in active development to ensure AI technologies are developed and deployed in a safe, secure, and trustworthy manner. The White House issued an executive order in October 2022 that covers a comprehensive strategy for responsible innovations. The order addresses the risks by including components such as promoting innovation, ethical and responsible use of AI, privacy and security, public trust, and workforce development.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also been actively developing guidelines for using AI and ML in medical devices, emphasizing machine learning-enabled device software functions (ML-DSFs). The guidelines recommend what information should be included in a Predetermined Change Control Plan (PCCP) for a marketing submission for an ML-DSF.

Continue reading here

Originally published by Healthcare Business Today

Governmental organizations are seeing the immense economic and societal benefits of AI. Comprehensive guidelines and regulatory frameworks are in active development to ensure AI technologies are developed and deployed in a safe, secure, and trustworthy manner. The White House issued an executive order in October 2022 that covers a comprehensive strategy for responsible innovations. The order addresses the risks by including components such as promoting innovation, ethical and responsible use of AI, privacy and security, public trust, and workforce development.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also been actively developing guidelines for using AI and ML in medical devices, emphasizing machine learning-enabled device software functions (ML-DSFs). The guidelines recommend what information should be included in a Predetermined Change Control Plan (PCCP) for a marketing submission for an ML-DSF.

Continue reading here

By Victoria Hanna

Originally published by AccountingToday

When leaders think of how to improve their customer’s experience, they often associate this practice with retail or technology services that are digital-first, transactional businesses. While the need for a positive customer experience is widely acknowledged, its importance across industries is highlighted by the fact that 86% of consumers say they would no longer purchase from a brand after only two poor experiences. Additionally, 73% of consumers cite experience as a main purchasing consideration.

Similar to technology and retail industries, accounting and advisory firms began increasing their customer experience efforts in recent years to focus on client retention and growth. 

Continue reading here

Learn more about Baker Tilly 

By Victoria Hanna

Originally published by AccountingToday

When leaders think of how to improve their customer’s experience, they often associate this practice with retail or technology services that are digital-first, transactional businesses. While the need for a positive customer experience is widely acknowledged, its importance across industries is highlighted by the fact that 86% of consumers say they would no longer purchase from a brand after only two poor experiences. Additionally, 73% of consumers cite experience as a main purchasing consideration.

Similar to technology and retail industries, accounting and advisory firms began increasing their customer experience efforts in recent years to focus on client retention and growth. 

Continue reading here

Learn more about Baker Tilly