Tag: 3BL

Originally posted by Albertsons Boise Open.

In front of 800 tournament sponsors, local media partners and special guests at the Hershey Company Pro-Am Dinner, Albertsons and Chevron executives announced over $3 million was raised for charity from this year’s Albertsons Boise Open presented by Chevron. The donation brings the 35-year charity total to $39 million, a record on the Korn Ferry Tour.

See original article at Albertsons Boise Open and read more about Albertsons Companies and our Recipe for Change on our website.

Verizon

This spring at Vista Academy in the East New York neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY, middle school students tackled a complicated problem: Thinking like scientists and engineers, they were asked to solve the issue of underwater pollution in the Pacific Ocean.

Working together first in pairs and then as a group, students programmed robots to forage for plastics and other garbage — a step towards solving a complex, here-and-now issue. Projects like these, which combine solutions-oriented thinking with emerging technology, are the types of challenges that Vista Academy students tackle in the Verizon Innovative Learning Lab program. The Lab program offers a tech-infused curriculum in custom-designed, state-of-the-art facilities at schools nationwide. The curriculum is designed to foster tech skills alongside real-world applications of the tech.

“The Verizon Innovative Learning Lab program exposes students to emerging technologies through project-based curriculum, created by our team at Arizona State University, to encourage students to explore real-world problem solving,” explains Gabriela Chacon, assistant director of the youth entrepreneurship team at Arizona State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute. “In the program, students create solutions for their communities by leveraging technologies like augmented reality, virtual reality, 3D modeling and printing, artificial intelligence and robotics, and social innovation and design thinking,” Chacon adds.

In the year since joining the program, Vista has already seen notable advancements in STEM education, inclusivity, and student performance. Students readily engage with the curriculum and tools they find in the Lab, educators say. “They’re happy to come to the lab, they’re happy to learn, they’re excited to see what they’re going to learn next,” says Brookie Chandler, a Verizon Innovative Learning Lab Mentor at Vista Academy.

Seeing how engaged the students have become in the program, teachers around the school often reach out to Chandler for guidance. “Other teachers want that same type of engagement. They come to me and say, ‘Hey, what can we do with the Lab?’” Chandler says.

Chandler collaborates with her colleagues to develop plans based on their teaching, which has inspired her further. “Leading this Lab and collaborating with teachers makes me want more. I want more for other schools in New York City. I want all schools to have the technology and have an innovative learning lab,” Chandler says.

After all, Chandler is also seeing her students envision their futures differently after working in the Lab. “They’re engaging in exploring careers in STEM,” she says. “They’re thriving, they’re learning, they’re engaging in technology — they’re preparing themselves for the future.”

Verizon Innovative Learning is a key part of Citizen Verizon, the company’s responsible business plan to help move the world forward for all. As part of the plan, Verizon has an ambitious goal of providing 10 million youth with digital skills training by 2030. Visit CitizenVerizon.com to learn more about the company’s responsible business efforts. Educators can access free lessons, professional development, and immersive learning experiences to help bring new ways of learning into the classroom by visiting Verizon Innovative Learning HQ.

“In the program, students create solutions for their communities by leveraging technologies like augmented reality, virtual reality, 3D modeling and printing, artificial intelligence and robotics, and social innovation and design thinking.”

Gabriela Chacon, assistant director of the youth entrepreneurship team at Arizona State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute

Today, Direct Relief, the nation’s leading provider of philanthropic funding for solar and battery storage projects at U.S. nonprofit community health centers and clinics, announced a new $10 million commitment to bring clean, resilient backup power to more facilities that serve low-income people in medically underserved areas across the United States.

The provision of health services requires a continuous supply of electricity to power lights and diagnostic equipment, allow access to electronic health records, and maintain temperature-sensitive medications. Direct Relief’s expanded commitment seeks to address the increasingly frequent problem of health service interruptions during power outages caused by extreme weather, such as wildfires, heat waves, hurricanes, and flood-causing storms.

Direct Relief’s expanded effort builds on its ongoing support and emergency response efforts in all 50 states and territories of the U.S. to the network of nonprofit clinics and health centers that serve as the national healthcare safety net, providing care to over 38 million patients who, compared to the general U.S. population, have lower incomes, less wealth, include more people of all racial and ethnic minority populations, and have less access to needed primary healthcare services.

Extreme weather events and emergency situations create enhanced health risks for people who rely on nonprofit health facilities. Such events create new health risks and the need for expanded health services, even as the availability of services is likely to be severely reduced or lost due to power outages.

Direct Relief’s Power for Health Initiative provides grant funding to health clinics that serve vulnerable and underserved patient populations to cover the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of solar power and battery storage microgrids. The nonprofit clinics and health centers own the systems and derive 100% of the benefits – the resiliency benefits coming from batteries that provide power in the event of an outage, and the immediate and recurring financial benefits of reduced utility costs coming from generating their own electricity through the solar panels.

“Power outages are inconvenient for anyone, but they can be devastating for patients whose access to care is at their local nonprofit clinic or health center, when a prolonged blackout causes the facility to close or the loss of refrigerated medications, insulin, or vaccines – a scenario Direct Relief has unfortunately seen too many times,” said Thomas Tighe, President and CEO of Direct Relief.

“Direct Relief is expanding the commitment because of the clear, urgent need that remains unaddressed and because the completed projects have successfully shown the obvious, essential benefits of ensuring care is available for people who need it most when most needed. Moreover, as a philanthropic investment, the financial benefits of this approach have proven to be powerful – the savings that occur each year effectively amount to an annual operating grant to the clinic, with the amounts over time far exceeding what Direct Relief could provide.”

The latest infusion of support is focused on bringing reliable power to U.S. nonprofit clinics and community health centers. Community health centers provide care annually for 1 in 11 people in the U.S. and serve as the healthcare home for America’s most vulnerable populations, including 1 in 5 of America’s uninsured, 1 in 6 Medicaid beneficiaries, 1 in 3 individuals living in poverty, according to the National Association for Community Health Centers. Free and charitable clinics are also part of the nation’s health safety net, and those clinics recorded 5.7 million patient visits in 2023, according to the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics. More than 8 out of 10 patients were uninsured, according to NAFC, and reported living at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

More Power for Health projects continue to come online at nonprofit clinics and health centers nationwide, with 20 completed projects in Puerto Rico, Louisiana, North Carolina, and California and dozens in the design and construction pipeline – including in Texas and Florida. The latest facilities where Direct Relief-funded resilient power systems have been completed include Harmony Health Medical Clinic (Marysville, CA), in an area prone to explosive wildfires, and Goshen Medical Center (Tabor City, NC), at high risk of hurricanes.

Case Study

“Dow offers extensive material options and strong R&D capabilities, meaning we get the opportunity to try out several solutions to make our racket sports gear even better. This sort of testing flexibility allows our teams to streamline innovation — it helped us successfully cross-develop player-preferred pickleballs and tennis balls.”

– Chloe Lee, Advanced Materials Engineer at Wilson Sporting Goods

Pickleball is often described as a hybrid of tennis, badminton and ping pong, and is celebrated for its enjoyable gameplay, ease of learning and accessibility. Despite being invented in the 1960s, it’s now the fastest-growing sport in the United States — according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), participation has grown by more than 158.6% since 2021. This unprecedented growth was onset by the COVID-19 pandemic, as the racket sport offered a safe yet social exercise, requiring only a court, paddle and ball.

Wilson Sporting Goods was ahead of the craze and began to ideate its first pickleball design in 2018. Around that same time, they had enlisted Dow’s materials science expertise and R&D capabilities to help create a more sustainable tennis ball. Despite player satisfaction stalling innovation for over 50 years, Wilson saw an opportunity: traditional non-recyclable, pressurized cans helped tennis balls maintain bounce but contributed to environmental waste. Our teams worked hand-in-hand to ultimately develop the Triniti tennis ball, integrated with Dow plastomer technologies to help offer a lively bounce, consistent performance and durability without pressurized packaging.

Building on our successful tennis ball collaboration — and shared commitment to advancing performance and sustainability in sporting goods — our teams shifted gears to tackle optimizing the ball for the fastest-growing sport.

THE CHALLENGE

Producing Pickleballs that Push the Limits of Playability

By the time the Triniti ball launched, Wilson had also released its first pickleball design: the TRU 32. It was a rough-to-the-touch injection-molded pickleball, comprising of an innovative proprietary formula. With an equally distributed 32-hole pattern, it offered improved flight stability when compared to traditional 40-hole options. Now that Wilson had this initial design nailed down, they were ready to elevate it for professional-grade performance, and knew Dow could help.

Our teams embarked on a mission to optimize the TRU 32, exploring the benefits of various Dow materials to develop a design and composition that would offer superior consistency, durability and speed. Leveraging our learnings from the Triniti ball, we collaborated on a multitude of prototypes until we landed on a next-level pickleball.

THE SOLUTION

Serving Up Player-Preferred Pickleballs

Integrated with Dow elastomer technologies, the TRU 32 Pro delivers the same dependable consistency as TRU 32 but with enhanced speed and liveliness, making it ideal for advanced competitive gameplay. Its patented hole pattern creates consistent flight and bounce characteristics that complement the fast, responsive nature of its composition. Manufactured in the USA with imported components, the ball is USA Pickleball approved for outdoor competitive play and introduced new levels of pickleball performance. Building on this design, our teams also recently collaborated on a version specifically for indoor play — the TRU 32 Indoor ball.

Setting New Standards in Racket Sport Technology

The collaborations between Dow and Wilson exemplify the power of partnership in advancing innovation and sustainability. By leveraging our combined expertise and passion for advancing sport, we’ve tackled key issues in racket sport balls such as durability and performance, creating breakthrough products like the Triniti tennis balls and TRU 32 Pro pickleball that enhance game play for everyday players and professionals alike. Our innovative designs mark significant progress in performance and sustainability, and we anticipate many more to come. Together, we’re not just meeting the standards in the world of sporting goods — we’re setting them.

Learn more about Dow technologies in tennis

Learn more about Dow’s collaborations in sports

AT&T is dialing up more renewable energy—this time, from an Enbridge solar project in Texas.

The Dallas-based multinational telecom company is growing its procurement of renewable energy as part of its energy management strategy.

Enbridge announced our plans to build and operate the Orange Grove Solar project near Corpus Christi, TX. Upon completion in late 2025, Orange Grove will provide 130 megawatts (MW) of power to the local grid.

Telecom giant AT&T has signed a long-term virtual power purchase agreement with Enbridge for the output of the project. The agreement helps AT&T offset its energy expense and reduce its carbon footprint.

Orange Grove is Enbridge’s first solar project in the Lone Star State, where we already own and operate three wind energy facilities. With about 300,000 solar panels on 920 acres, the project will create between 150 and 250 jobs during the construction phase.

“Orange Grove is a key part of our commitment to develop, construct and operate onshore renewable projects across North America,” says Matthew Akman, Enbridge’s Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy and President of our Power business.

“By leveraging Enbridge’s extensive capabilities, we advanced the project to the construction phase and have now secured a virtual power purchase agreement with AT&T,” he adds. “We look forward to expanding our renewable energy footprint in Texas in the future.”

To date, Enbridge has committed more than US$7 billion in capital to renewable energy and power transmission projects, either in operation or under construction, in North America and Europe.

Enbridge currently owns and/or operates seven solar energy facilities across the U.S. in Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Originally published September 4th

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is unimaginable, but a reality for more than 1,000 children a day worldwide. To shine a light on the stories of resilience, breakthroughs in research, and survivorship, Northwestern Mutual, a leading financial services company, was joined by Mayor Cavalier Johnson, to declare Sept. 4 as “goldeNMoments Day” in Milwaukee. This momentous day coincides with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. 

“For the last 12 years, we have made it our mission to accelerate the search for better treatments and cures and provide resources to families affected by childhood cancer,” said Steve Radke, president, Northwestern Mutual Foundation. “While we remain steadfast in our efforts, we’re honored to also champion the milestones that are lighting the way to brighter futures and bigger research breakthroughs.” 

Northwestern Mutual, through its Foundation, continues to reaffirm its dedication to the childhood cancer cause through annual investments, partnerships and activations, raising more than $3.6 million in 2024. 

Investing in research 
The Northwestern Mutual Foundation has funded more than 700,000 hours of research through Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) and contributed more than $60 million to the cause overall. Grants are provided each year to support new and future researchers participating in programs like the Pediatric Oncology Student Training (POST) and Young Investigators.

Partnering with local teams 
As part of a larger partnership with the Milwaukee Brewers™, Northwestern Mutual will host Childhood Cancer Awareness weekend at American Family Field™ as the Brewers™ host Colorado Sept. 6-8, where the Milwaukee Brewers and Brewers Community Foundation will donate $1 for every ticket sold to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF). The weekend will be filled with unique in-game activations and fundraising opportunities such the ability for fans to round-up their purchases at concessions and retail, interactive concourse games, and a donation-based meet-and-greet with a Brewers alum. In addition, 50/50 Raffle proceeds from the weekend will be donated to ALSF. For every Brewers RBI this season, a donation will be made to ALSF to support childhood cancer research. As of today, the Brewers have almost 650 RBIs, generating 3,250 research hours.

Lessening the financial burden for families 
This year, 25 childhood cancer survivors and 25 childhood cancer siblings were awarded college scholarships, totaling $500,000 as part of the Childhood Cancer Scholarship Program. The program has awarded over 260 scholarships to date, totaling $1.7 million.

“We are honored to lift up the myriad of goldeNMoments that these investments make possible, said Radke. “Whether it is breakthrough research, scholarships, or attending a Brewers baseball game and just be a kid for the day, these moments are changing lives.”

To learn more about the company’s commitment to childhood cancer, visit the Northwestern Mutual Foundation’s website here.

About Northwestern Mutual Foundation 

The mission of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation is to improve the lives of children and families in need. The Foundation has given more than $490 million since its inception in 1992 and is designed to create lasting impact in the communities where the company’s employees and financial representatives live and work. We accomplish this by combining financial support, volunteerism, thought leadership and convening community partners to deliver the best outcomes. Our efforts are focused nationally on curing childhood cancer, and locally on education, neighborhoods and making our hometown of Milwaukee a great destination. Visit Northwestern Mutual Foundation to learn more.

About Northwestern Mutual

Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 165 years. Through a comprehensive planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industry-leading products to help its clients plan for what’s most important. With more than $627 billion of total assets1 being managed across the company’s institutional portfolio as well as retail investment client portfolios, nearly $36 billion in revenues, and $2.3 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than five million people with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. Northwestern Mutual ranked 111 on the 2023 FORTUNE 500.

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, WI (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (investment brokerage services), broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (investment advisory and services), federal savings bank; and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC) (long-term care insurance). Not all Northwestern Mutual representatives are advisors. Only those representatives with “Advisor” in their title or who otherwise disclose their status as an advisor of NMWMC are credentialed as NMWMC representatives to provide investment advisory services.

1 Includes investments and separate account assets of Northwestern Mutual as well as retail investment client assets held or managed by Northwestern Mutual.

Summary

2024 2nd Quarter

With support from FedEx through their Charitable Giving Program, The Salvation Army’s co-branded FedEx canteens deployed to 41 events in the 2nd Quarter of 2024. Additionally, FedEx canteens in multiple locations are used to support nine recurring feeding programs in their communities. These events range from weekly community outreach for those experiencing homelessness to daily feeding programs and supporting summer camps.

The Salvation Army appreciates the support of FedEx and their donation of mobile feeding units to support our communities.

FedEx Canteens In Process

The Salvation Army Western Territory: Southwest Division

The Salvation Army Southwest Division’s FedEx canteen will be housed in Phoenix, Arizona. The unit was completed at the beginning of July 2024. The Western Territory Southwest Division has scheduled the ribbon- cutting event for Thursday, August 8th in Phoenix, Arizona.

The Salvation Army Eastern Territory: Eastern Pennsylvania Division

The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania Division FedEx canteen is in progress and on track to be completed just after Labor Day. The timeline has been pushed back by only a couple of weeks, but the vendor is making progress. In addition, they sent a photo of the unit having wiring and walls installed. From this point out, the canteen is roughly 12 weeks away from completion.

The Salvation Army Southern Territory: Georgia Division

The Salvation Army Georgia Division’s FedEx canteen will be housed in St. Mary’s, Georgia. The unit was completed at the end of May 2024. The Southern Territory Georgia Division has scheduled the ribbon-cutting event for Wednesday, August 14th.

Disaster Response

Tornado Response in Kansas

On Tuesday, April 30th, 2024, an EF-3 tornado hit Westmoreland, Kansas. The tornado destroyed 22 homes and damaged 13 others. The Salvation Army in Salina, Kansas responded on May 1st, 2024, and the Salvation Army in Kansas City, Missouri responded on May 2nd and 3rd. In these locations, The Salvation Army disaster workers served food and drinks from the FedEx canteen to survivors, first responders, volunteers, and county workers. In total, 734 meals, 380 snacks, and 833 drinks were served.

Response to Flooding in Brazil

We would like to thank FedEx for their $25,000 donation to the Salvation Army World Service Office to support relief efforts.

The most southerly region of Brazil has declared a state of public calamity due to the torrential rains and flooding in the area which have affected more than 873,000 people.

Over 80 fatalities have been reported in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, with the number expected to rise. Almost 150,000 people have been displaced from their homes.

The Guaíba river burst its banks in Porto Alegre, the state capital, flooding parts of the city and surrounding towns. The district in which the Salvation Army’s corps and thrift store are located is completely flooded. The corps’ outpost, in Eldorado do Sul, is practically underwater. As soon as
the roads are clear, the Salvation Army’s canteen and donation truck will be heading to Porto Alegre from territorial headquarters in São Paulo, with water, non-perishable foods, and cleaning and personal hygiene items, which have been donated by the general public.

Teams from DHQ and Salvationists in the area have visited local surroundings to assess the devastation and need. Clothes, water, hygiene kits, cleaning supplies and food are being distributed to families experiencing difficulties.

With further rain predicted, Salvation Army emergency volunteers will continue with their rapid response in flood-damaged areas, carrying out further needs assessments on the ground as they work, seeking to provide emotional and spiritual support to those affected.

Read the full story here.

Response to Extreme Heat in Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas Citizens remain dedicated to service in sweltering heat

By Abby Dodge, June 24, 2024

“KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Monday marked the hottest day on record in Kansas City this year. Despite the heat, multiple organizations throughout the metro remained committed to helping the community.

“We feel it’s very important in the community,” said Lauren Carr, co-pastor at Good Shepherd Community of Christ. “There are not too many organizations right in this part of eastern Jackson County.”

Good Shepherd Community of Christ, which is located near 43rd and Blue Ridge Boulevard, opened its doors Monday for people wanting to escape the heat. On dangerously hot days, the community room is turned into a cooling center for anyone who needs it.

While this only happens a few times a year, people who use the center always say they are grateful for the relief.

Also on Monday, the Salvation Army’s Honk ‘n’ Holler team, which primarily does outreach with the houseless community, loaded up a truck with water for those in need.

The emergency disaster services team and volunteers drove around the city handing out water.”

Read the full article here.

Kansas City, Missouri Fan Distribution Event

In response to extreme heat in Kansas City, Missouri, The Salvation Army partnered with Evergy to distribute fans to those in need. These fan distributions were done in partnership with different local agencies and the local police department. In total, 1,529 meals and 1,670 snacks were served in addition to the fans.

Click here to view the KCTV news coverage.

Click here to view the KSHB news coverage.

Residential and Structure Fires

In the 2nd Quarter of 2024, The Salvation Army responded to ten fires with the FedEx canteens. The Salvation Army responded to four 2-alarm fires, two 3-11 fires, one 4- 11 fire, and three additional fires. The term “2-11 fire” is a two-alarm fire that requires the assistance of additional trucks and firefighters, and usually assistance of one additional fire station. A “3-11” or three-alarm fire requires the assistance of more than one fire station with additional firefighters and trucks.

In Chicago, Illinois, The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster workers served snacks and drinks from the FedEx canteen to firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), and police at four 2-11 fires. In total 185 snacks and 79 drinks were served.

In Chicago, Illinois and Mont Prospect, Illinois The Salvation Army Responded to two 3-11 fires. The first 3-11 fire response was to a large apartment fire that left 100 residents displaced on June 17th, 2024. From the FedEx canteen, disaster workers served 100 snacks and 175 drinks to firefighters, police, and displaced residents. The second 3-11 fire was a large warehouse fire on June 19th, 2024, and disaster workers served 65 snacks and 78 drinks to firefighters, EMTs, and police.

The Salvation Army responded to a 4-11 fire in Chicago, Illinois on June 18th, 2024, at a pallet warehouse. This fire was elevated to one of the highest levels of alarm for a Chicago, Illinois fire. Luckily, it burned very fast and during that time, The Salvation Army served 155 snacks and 300 drinks to firefighters, EMTs, and police.

In response to three additional fires in Waukegan, Illinois and Elk Grove Village, Illinois, The Salvation Army served in total 196 snacks and 211 drinks to firefighters, EMTs, and police. Finally, in response to a fire in Rockford, Illinois, The Salvation Army served snacks and water from the FedEx canteen to responders. Additionally, meals were provided to displaced residents for two days. In total 310 meals, 281 snacks, and 504 drinks were served.

Community Outreach

San Francisco Unhoused Feeding and Outreach

The Salvation Army San Francisco Culinary Training Academy’s students prepare gourmet meals as part of their training every week. Every Friday, they take the FedEx canteen to the unhoused community of San Francisco, bringing a fantastic meal in addition to information on The Salvation Army’s addiction treatment and recovery programs. In total, 3,250 meals and drinks were distributed along with referral cards to treatment offered through the Harbor Light Center.

3,250 Meals served

Greater New York Food Pantry

The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services team in Bronx, New York partners with City Harvest. City Harvest is an organization that rescues food that would otherwise be thrown out and delivers it to individuals experiencing hunger in New York. Every Tuesday and Friday volunteers distribute fresh food and vegetables from the FedEx canteen to community members in need and to new immigrants. This quarter, 100 meals, snacks, and drinks were served. 

In 2023, The Salvation Army New York Temple Corps was highlighted as a 2023 Advocacy Award Honoree at their inaugural City Harvest Advocacy Summit.

100 Meals Served

Baltimore, Maryland Weekly Feeding Program

In Baltimore, Maryland, the FedEx canteens rotated between a few Corps conducting a weekly feeding program and supported the daily Baltimore Feedmore program. The Baltimore Feedmore Program primarily serves unhoused individuals as well as other marginalized populations in need. It runs six days per week, Monday through Saturday. Through the Feedmore program, 7,926 meals, 8,526 snacks, and 8,526 drinks were served along with the distribution of other needed items such as sock and hygiene kits.

Danville, Virginia PATHS Community Event

In Danville, Virginia, volunteers participated in the Piedmont Access to Health Services (PATHS) event. At this event, 200 meals were served to community members attending the event.

Georgia Community Feeding Program

During the 2nd Quarter of 2024 in Georgia, volunteers and Salvation Army officers took the FedEx canteen out to multiple locations in Lilburn, Norcross, and Lawrenceville to serve meals to the unhoused. Meals were served at long- term stay hotels and apartment buildings. These meal distributions were done in partnership with different local agencies and the local police department. In total, 565 meals and drinks were served.

One June 6th, 2024, local Advisory Council members and Salvation Army staff served the Gwinnett Police Department a special meal as a thank you for their continued partnership. At this event, 150 meals and drinks were served from the FedEx canteen.

Memphis, Tennessee Hope on Wheels Program

The Salvation Army Memphis Area Command uses the FedEx canteen for Hope On Wheels weekly food distribution throughout Metro Memphis area. Usually, a volunteer team of 5-10 help prepare over 200 meals weekly alongside, snack, drinks and needed hygiene items. This ministry is key to they success of bringing Hope to Memphis and meeting the needs of those within the displaced or less fortunate environment. In total, over 2,900 meals, 1,200 snacks, and 3,200 drinks were served.

2,900 Meals served

New Orleans, Louisiana Outreach Program

Every Wednesday, The Salvation Army in New Orleans, Louisiana takes a group of five volunteers from the ranks of Salvation Army Officers and Soldiers to various locations around the city. From the canteen, food is served and information is provided on The Salvation Army’s shelter and Adult Rehabilitation Programs to community members. In the 2nd Quarter, 870 meals and 1,109 snacks were served.

870 Meals Served

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Mobile Feeding Program

In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the FedEx canteen is used to assist with mobile feeding for the unhoused population at encampments and city parks. This program has greatly expanded in the last six months with a 75% increase in the number of individuals being served. This is due partly to the summer season and shelter closure during these months. However, the main reason for the program’s expansion is the continued rapport building between volunteers and the unhoused population. A second Salvation Army canteen alongside the FedEx canteen to visit various encampments and a local park, where the feeding program has traditionally been held.

The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Service collaborates with other Salvation Army programs such as the Family Caring Center, Adult Rehabilitation Center, Anti-Human Trafficking Department, and the local Salvation Army Corp to provide social services. Outside partners include Home Depot, FedEx, Highmark, and numerous others.

News Article

Virginia Meal Delivery & Feeding Program

The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services team in Danville, Virginia used their FedEx canteen in Danville and Martinsville, Virginia. Every Monday, the Emergency Disaster Services team delivered breakfast to 60 food insecure children attending camp each week. On Thursdays, the FedEx canteen was taken to a lunch feeding program at the Martinsville Service Center where meals are served to in-need community members.

In total, 1860 meals and been delivered. Of these meals, The Salvation Army delivers 60 meals each week for the first five weeks of camp, and this will continue throughout the rest of the summer.

Chicago, Illinois Community Health Fair Event

The Salvation Army took the FedEx canteen to the Midwest Corp’s Community Health Fair Event. From the FedEx canteen, volunteers and staff served 715 snacks and 75 drinks.

Trenton, New Jersey Mobile Feeding Program

A team of volunteers from the Trenton Corps in the Trenton area use the FedEx canteen every other Friday to serve prepared meals to the community, focusing on vulnerable populations. They also provide pantry bags, blankets, hygiene items, and other items (socks, coats, toys, etc.) as available. The Salvation Army Corps Officers and other team members work with other service providers and law enforcement to identify areas where services are needed.

Clients are provided with information and guidance to seek out additional resources according to their long-term needs. Volunteers come from various groups, including civic organizations (Rotary, Kiwanis, Elks, etc.), corps members, local high schools, college student organizations, city/county agencies, and more. This quarter, 1,613 meals, snacks, and drinks as well as 56 masks, 626 socks, and 32 toys were provided.

Social Media Post

Special Events

Miami, Florida Salvation Army Take Your Child to Work Day

In Miami, Florida, children of The Salvation Army employees participated in an all-day event teaching them about the different departments. For Emergency Disaster. Services, the group learned and participated in meal prep and service (snacks) and Emotional and Spiritual Care.

36 Snacks Served

Georgia Division Participates in Corners Outreach Resource Event

The Salvation Army Georgia Division Emergency Disaster Services team partnered with Corners Outreach on April 25th. At the Resource Event, The Salvation Army served meals to attendees from the FedEx canteen.

514 Meals Served

FDIC 2024 Lucas Oil Event

The Salvation Army Indiana Division Emergency Disaster Services assisted with the FDIC 2024 Lucas Oil Event on April 13th and 14th. This event offers training, workshops, and innovative products to Fire and Rescue professionals from around the world.

The Salvation Army worked with the Indiana Fire Department and the Indianapolis Fire Buffs at the event. From the FedEx canteen, food and drinks were served during check-in day and move-in day. A total of 235 snacks and 90 drinks were served.

Clays for a Cause in Indiana

The Salvation Army Indiana Division Emergency Disaster Services team assisted at The Salvation Army’s Clays for a Cause event. The Emergency Disaster Services team served morning break snacks and drinks and drinks throughout the event from the FedEx canteen to attendees.

Kansas City, Missouri Free Smoke Alarm Event

On April 12th, 2024, The Salvation Army Southern Kansas and Western Missouri Division participated in a community event where volunteers, the local fire department trainees, and community partners installed free smoke alarms in the Argentine and Armourdale neighborhoods. From the FedEx canteen, the Emergency Disaster Services team distributed 140 meals and drinks and 240 snacks to the volunteers, fire department trainees, and community partners.

Big Rigs for Kids Event in Shawnee, Kansas

On April 13th, 2024, in Shawnee, Kansas The Salvation Army brought the FedEx canteen to Trucks and Big Rigs for Kids. This event is put on by the Johnson County Parks and Recreation Department and benefits the Special Olympics. This event gave children an opportunity to explore trucks and
big rigs. Children were able to climb into the driver’s seat of the vehicles, honk the horn, turn on sirens, etcetera. They also got a chance to ask the operators about the vehicle. The children and parents enjoyed seeing the inside of the FedEx canteen and were impressed with the ability to
feed so many people.

Click here to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

Originally published on Life at HARMAN

The Role and Responsibilities

Kelly has been with HARMAN for two years and leads the North American Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) lab. The lab specializes in hardware validation testing of electronic products such as amplifiers and head units. Kelly’s leadership philosophy centers around empathy, a quality she believes is often underestimated. “Sometimes empathy is overlooked as a leadership strength—but I’m here to challenge that,” Kelly asserts. Leading a team of 10, she ensures the lab runs smoothly and efficiently and that the electrical components inside vehicles function as intended. This requires technical expertise, coordination, collaboration, and a deep understanding of her team members’ needs and motivations.

The Power of Emotions

Kelly believes being aware and mindful of emotions is crucial for fostering innovation and problem-solving in tech. “Acknowledging emotions allows people to be as creative and open as possible and to think of solutions that may not be obvious.” She strives to create an environment where her team feels safe and comfortable, allowing them to thrive rather than just get the job done. This approach encourages creativity and helps overcome roadblocks by fostering a sense of connection and collaboration.

Doubt is Part of Being Successful​

One of Kelly’s standout moments at HARMAN was her first meeting as the lead EMC engineer. Tasked with presenting validation results to a customer and negotiating deviations for anomalies observed during testing, Kelly faced skepticism about her ability to lead. She successfully led the meeting through careful preparation and coaching, building her confidence and establishing a strong working relationship with the customer. This experience was pivotal in her development as an engineer and a leader, reinforcing her ability to handle complex technical challenges and negotiations.

Advice for Aspiring Engineers

If you ask Kelly, she will tell you to “Stay hungry for knowledge. If there’s something you’re curious about, explore it by asking colleagues or managers or conducting your research.” Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of networking with a diverse range of professionals, not just within one’s immediate circle. “You never know when a relationship can lead to your next career opportunity.”

Life Outside of Work

Balancing a demanding career and family life, Kelly often finds herself playing the roles of Uber driver and cheerleader for her kids’ extracurricular activities. Whether shuttling them to gymnastics or basketball practice, helping with homework, or cheering them on at competitions, Kelly brings the same dedication and empathy to her family that she does to her work. “It’s all about finding solutions and keeping everything running like a machine,” she confesses.  

Kelly’s journey at HARMAN shows that empathy and leadership are not antithetic concepts but complementary realities. Her ability to balance technical acumen with emotional intelligence sets her apart as a leader in the automotive industry. Whether guiding her team through a technical challenge or supporting her kids through their activities, Kelly’s empathetic approach ensures that everyone around her feels valued and empowered.​

In a field that often prioritizes hard skills, Kelly’s story powerfully reminds us that empathy and human connection are just as critical for innovation and success.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram​, and Facebook to learn more about our view on leadership and innovation driven by people who feel valued. 

Nearly three billion people have never used the internet, most of whom are women and girls. This, in turn, leaves them shut out from the social and economic benefits of connectivity. In this session, hosted by the Concordia and CARE, speakers from GSMA, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, and CARE, share insights into how the private sector and partnerships can play a critical role in advancing progress to improving digital access for marginalized communities.

More information on the Women in the Digital Economy Fund (WiDEF) – a joint effort between USAID and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to accelerate progress on closing the gender digital divide – can be found at widef.global. Applications are currently open for the next round of technical assistance in scaling private sector solutions to tackle the gender digital divide.

Watch the full session here.

As the frequency and severity of extreme weather events rise, regulatory bodies and investors are placing greater emphasis on climate-related disclosures, making it essential for companies to integrate climate considerations into their strategic planning. Businesses must proactively assess their vulnerability and resilience to such disruptions.

To help your business prepare for this reality, we’ve put together a primer on what climate scenario analysis entails, why it’s indispensable for businesses today, and the key steps involved in conducting a robust analysis.

Understanding Climate Scenario Analysis

What is climate scenario analysis?

Climate scenario analysis is a strategic tool used by businesses to evaluate the potential impacts of climate change on their operations, assets, and overall business strategy. It involves creating and analyzing a range of plausible future scenarios based on different assumptions about climate policies, technological advancements, and socio-economic trends. These scenarios help organizations assess the potential physical and transition risks associated with climate change and identify opportunities that may arise.

The analysis typically includes both qualitative and quantitative assessments. Qualitative assessments involve narrative descriptions of different future states, while quantitative assessments use models and data to estimate the financial implications of each scenario. Examining these differing scenarios helps businesses better understand the range of possible futures and develop strategies that are robust across different potential outcomes.

How climate scenario analysis helps identify risks and opportunities

Climate scenario analysis allows companies to evaluate a range of potential future scenarios and their impacts on business operations. Key risks and opportunities include:

Increased frequency and severity of storms, floods, and heatwaves that can disrupt supply chains, damage infrastructure, and impact workforce availability.The regulatory changes and shifting market demands, as well as the opportunities to innovate and improve operational efficiencies that come with a global economy shifting towards low-carbon technologies.

Importance of meeting investor and stakeholder expectations

Investors and stakeholders are increasingly concerned about the sustainability and resilience of the companies they support. Climate scenario analysis is a vital step in enhancing stakeholder confidence and trust. By transparently disclosing climate risks and demonstrating proactive management strategies, businesses can strengthen their reputations, attract sustainable investments, and foster long-term relationships with key stakeholders.

Overview of Frameworks and Regulations

Several frameworks and regulations guide businesses in conducting and reporting climate scenario analysis. By adhering to these guidelines, companies can ensure their scenario analyses are comprehensive, consistent, and aligned with best practices.

These frameworks and regulations provide a structured approach for identifying, assessing, and disclosing climate-related risks and opportunities, which helps businesses build credibility with stakeholders and meet regulatory expectations.

Frameworks

The TCFD framework

The Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) provides a comprehensive framework for companies to assess and disclose their climate-related risks and opportunities. Scenario analysis is a core recommendation, helping businesses understand potential impacts under different climate futures.

CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project)

CDP questionnaires are widely used by institutional investors and companies to evaluate a company’s climate preparedness. Utilizing climate change scenario analysis to inform the management of climate-related risks and opportunities and disclose results and relevant actions through the CDP questionnaire can help demonstrate sound climate change management strategies to a company’s stakeholders.

IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards)

The IFRS Foundation has introduced IFRS S1 and S2 standards. The IFRS S1 standard sets general requirements for disclosing sustainability-related financial information, which can include climate-related risks and opportunities. The IFRS S2 standard is specifically focused on climate-related disclosures, with scenario analysis being a key component.

Regulations

The SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission)

The SEC has proposed rules mandating that public companies disclose their climate-related risks. If a company uses scenario analysis to assess climate-related risks, results of such analysis and a description of methodology need to be reported.

EU CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive)

This directive mandates disclosure of resilience of an organization’s strategy and business model in relation to climate change, including the use of scenario analysis, making it a core part of sustainability reporting.

US FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation)

Federal agencies have proposed to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to require certain federal contractors to disclose climate-related financial risks through the CDP questionnaire. The proposed rule does not mandate the use of scenario analysis, but it can facilitate assessments of climate-related risks.

California Senate Bills 261 (CA SB-261)

The California Senate Bill 261 requires disclosure of climate-related financial risks for companies that generate total annual revenues of more than $5 million and do businesses in California. The proposed rule does not mandate the use of scenario analysis, but it can facilitate assessments of climate risks. 

Risk Scenarios

Climate scenario analysis involves understanding both physical and transition risks. Physical risk scenarios focus on the direct impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, sea level rise, and temperature fluctuations, which can affect infrastructure, operations, and supply chains. Transition risk scenarios, on the other hand, address the economic, regulatory, and technological changes associated with the shift to a low-carbon economy.

Physical risk scenarios

The following physical risk scenarios are based on Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs), which describe how atmospheric pollution and the amount of heat trapped by greenhouse gases (radiative forcing) will change over time. The full list of RCPs is available here, but we’ve highlighted key ones below.

IPCC RCP 1.9

The IPCC RCP 1.9 scenario is the IPCC’s lowest emission scenario, aimed at keeping global warming below 1.5°C by the end of the century, aligning with the aspirational goal of the Paris Agreement.

IPCC RCP 4.5

The IPCC RCP 4.5 scenario represents a “planned transition” to a low-carbon economy, where significant energy transition activities are delayed by 15-20 years from now. In this intermediate stabilization pathway, the increase in radiative forcing is stabilized at about 4.5 watts per square meter after 2100.

IPCC RCP 8.5

RCP 8.5 is the IPCC’s high-end scenario, where the amount of heat trapped by greenhouse gases exceeds 8.5 watts per square meter by 2100 and keeps increasing afterwards. This scenario leads to a global temperature rise of 4-5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by 2100.

Transition risk scenarios

Transition risk scenarios are frameworks used to assess the potential impacts of the transition to a low-carbon economy on businesses and investments. These scenarios consider a range of factors that could affect companies as the world shifts towards more sustainable practices, including regulatory changes, market dynamics, and technological advancements.

IEA Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario

The IEA Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario outlines policies and technologies necessary for achieving a net-zero economy by 2050, aiming to limit global warming to under 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2100. It includes aggressive decarbonization through rapid deployment of renewables, electrification of transport, and energy efficiency improvements. Policy measures involve stringent carbon pricing, green technology subsidies, and fossil fuel phase-outs. Technological innovations like CCS, hydrogen energy, and advanced batteries are crucial, alongside global cooperation on climate policies and financial aid for developing countries.

IEA Announced Pledges Scenario

The IEA Announced Pledges Scenario assumes that all announced but not yet implemented global climate policies will be enacted, presenting a more optimistic outlook than current policies. It anticipates governments fulfilling commitments like those in the Paris Agreement and national climate action plans. This scenario includes increased investment in clean technologies such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable infrastructure. It also forecasts the expansion of carbon trading schemes to incentivize emissions reductions.

IEA Stated Policies Scenario

The IEA Stated Policies Scenario, also known as the Current Policies Scenario, assumes a conservative approach where only existing climate policies continue without significant new commitments or advancements. This scenario features:

No major new climate policies are introduced, maintaining the status quo.Technological development proceeds slowly with reliance on existing technologies.Emissions decrease at a pace insufficient to meet ambitious climate goals.Emphasis on economic stability over aggressive climate action, minimizing market disruptions.

Selecting Appropriate Climate Scenarios for Your Business

Selecting appropriate climate scenarios involves a thorough assessment of your business’s specific risks, opportunities, and strategic goals. This assessment is crucial for understanding how climate change impacts could affect your operations, supply chains, and market positioning. Engaging in third-party assessments can provide valuable insights and expertise in identifying and evaluating these risks and opportunities objectively.

Third-party assessments bring independent analysis and specialized knowledge to the process, offering a comprehensive view of potential climate impacts that may not be apparent from internal perspectives alone.

Explore how Antea Group can help you with climate scenario analysis.