Tag: PR Newswire

PHOENIX, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG), a leader in the environmental services industry, today announced that Ian Craig has been appointed to its board of directors. The company’s board now consists of 13 members, including 12 independent directors.

Craig, 53, currently serves as chief executive officer of Coca-Cola FEMSA, Latin America’s largest bottling company, operating in 10 countries with $16 billion in annual revenue and a market capitalization of $23 billion. Under Craig’s leadership, Coca-Cola FEMSA has accelerated its digital transformation and sustainability initiatives, including driving renewable energy use in its plants and implementing impactful plastic bottle collection programs.

Prior to becoming CEO in 2023, Craig held numerous leadership positions at Coca-Cola FEMSA including chief operating officer for Brazil and Argentina, and various financial leadership roles. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated expertise in strategic growth, having led more than $7 billion in mergers and acquisitions across Latin America.

“Ian brings exceptional international business experience and a strong track record of operational excellence to our board,” said Manny Kadre, chairman of the board at Republic Services. “His expertise in digital transformation and sustainability initiatives aligns perfectly with Republic’s commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.”

“Ian’s proven ability to drive growth in complex markets and his focus on sustainability initiatives will be invaluable as we continue to expand our business,” said Michael Larson, Republic Services board member and chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. “His perspective on building digital platforms and implementing AI-enabled capabilities will help advance our strategic priorities.”

Craig earned an MBA from the University of Chicago, a master’s degree in international commercial law and a bachelor’s degree in industrial and systems engineering from Mexico’s Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey.

About Republic Services
Republic Services, Inc. is a leader in the environmental services industry. Through its subsidiaries, the company provides customers with the most complete set of products and services, including recycling, solid waste, special waste, hazardous waste and field services. Republic’s industry-leading commitments to advance circularity and support decarbonization are helping deliver on its vision to partner with customers to create a more sustainable world. For more information, please visit RepublicServices.com.

Republic Services Media Relations
Media@RepublicServices.com
(480) 757-9770

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SOURCE Republic Services, Inc.

Showcase project demonstrates viability of CarbonQuest’s technology on gas processing compressors, and is a first potential carbon sequestration project for the company

SPOKANE, Wash., Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CarbonQuest, a leading distributed carbon capture technology provider, announced that it has reached four new milestones on its journey to scaling distributed carbon capture technology:  1. First deployment of CarbonQuest’s technology on natural gas compression engines; 2. first CarbonQuest project in Canada in collaboration with a Canadian partner Cielo Carbon Solutions; 3. first integration of metal-organic framework (MOF) adsorbents from Captivate Technology into CarbonQuest capture units.

CarbonQuest, together with the Canadian partner Cielo Carbon Solutions and New Zealand partner Captivate Technology, entered into a contract with Tourmaline Oil, one of Canada’s leading oil and gas companies, to install CarbonQuest distributed carbon capture (DCCS™) technology on a natural gas compressor at the Tourmaline Banshee facility outside Edson, Alberta. For the first time, Captivate Technology’s MOF will be integrated into a CarbonQuest system to optimize the carbon capture process and improve energy efficiency. Once captured, the CO2 will likely be transported a short distance by pipeline for permanent underground sequestration in Alberta.

“We are thrilled that Tourmaline chose us as a technology partner for this project,” said Shane Johnson, CEO of CarbonQuest. “Our distributed carbon capture technology for medium-sized applications is ideally suited for natural gas compressors found at gas processing facilities. The integration of Captivate’s MOF in this project and Cielo’s Canadian presence is a great opportunity to expand our North American footprint.”

Half of the $4,100,000 funding for the project is provided by the Alberta government, reaffirming its commitment to pioneering carbon capture and sequestration projects. “We thank Emissions Reductions Alberta, the NGIF, and the government of Alberta for recognizing the importance of this project and stepping up with funding,” said Johnathon Sipos, CEO of Cielo Carbon Solutions. “Sequestering carbon in Alberta is the right approach, one that promotes both economic prosperity with environmental stewardship, and we hope to see more CO2 injection wells developed in Canada.”

 “This project tests our proprietary metal-organic framework (MOF) in a commercial setting, “said Shane Telfer, Chief Executive Officer of Captivate Technology, “enabling us to demonstrate how advanced adsorbent materials can revolutionize carbon capture processes. This is the first step in our cooperation with CarbonQuest to develop MOF-based carbon capture projects.”

“Now is the time to develop our natural gas assets and pursue Canada’s natural gas opportunity. Not only is Canada’s geographic position beneficial for exports to international markets, but we also have an abundant supply of lower-carbon-intensity natural gas to share. Since 2021 Tourmaline has been advancing our CCS initiatives with an aim to reduce our corporate emission intensity, including piloting CarbonQuest’s technology for its practical natural gas focused solution,” said Scott Volk, Director, Emissions and Innovation, from Tourmaline.

About CarbonQuest

CarbonQuest delivers modular, accessible solutions that capture CO2 from a variety of emissions sources and onsite power generation systems before they are released into the atmosphere. The captured CO2 is either liquefied and transported to local businesses for utilization or sequestered permanently underground. By bringing Sustainable CO2™ and innovative technology to the market, CarbonQuest empowers emissions reductions in multiple hard-to-abate sectors.

For more information, visit www.carbonquest.com

About Cielo Carbon Solutions

Cielo Carbon Solutions is based in Victoria BC, and is the Canadian channel partner to CarbonQuest. Our team is committed to making green the use of natural gas through CCUS, thus bridging the gap between sustainability and economic success through our natural resource sector. Our background in large-scale development, government affairs, and finance, perfectly positions us to deliver turn-key projects from inception to commissioning.

About Captivate

Captivate Technology is a carbon capture and removal company that uses a recyclable, sponge-like adsorbent to selectively sieve carbon dioxide from emission sources. This patented MOF material is engineered for carbon capture at all scales in sectors including cement, steel, natural gas, biomass combustion and biogas. By using a straightforward engineering process that has low energy requirements and easily integrates with any downstream utilization technology, Captivate Technology delivers economic and environmental benefits across multiple sectors.

For more information, please visit https://www.captivatetechnology.com/

About Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a Canadian senior crude oil and natural gas exploration and production company focused on long-term growth through an active exploration, development, production and acquisition program in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin.

Learn more at www.tourmalineoil.com

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SOURCE CarbonQuest

Experienced nonprofit leader brings proven expertise to strengthen 100-year organization

BURBANK, Calif., Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — National Assistance League announced the appointment of Judy Zulfiqar, MBA, as its new Executive Director. Zulfiqar brings more than 20 years of strategic leadership experience, including proven success in nonprofit organizational turnarounds, financial sustainability, and stakeholder engagement.

“After a comprehensive national search, we are thrilled to welcome Judy to National Assistance League,” said Andrea Goodman, Board Chair. “Her track record of revitalizing organizations, combined with her deep understanding of volunteer engagement and community impact, makes her the ideal leader to guide us into our next century of service. We are confident in her ability to strengthen our network of 95 chapters and position the organization for long-term growth and sustainability.”

Zulfiqar served as Chief Strategist at Watermark Associates from 2015 to 2026, advising clients across diverse industries. In this role, she provided strategic leadership in business planning, marketing, and organizational development while managing cross-functional teams and creating compelling fundraising initiatives that collectively raised millions of dollars for nonprofit clients and events. She also served as Executive Director of Outdoor Adventures by Boojum, where she led the organization’s complete recovery from a two-year COVID-19 shutdown. As Immediate Past District Governor for Rotary District 5330, she led 60 clubs and 1,848 members across Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

“I am honored to join National Assistance League at this pivotal moment in its history,” said Zulfiqar. “The organization’s 100-year legacy of compassionate community service, powered by dedicated volunteers, is remarkable. Together, we will strengthen this organization to serve communities for the next 100 years.”

Goodman also expressed gratitude to Stephanie Chaney Atkins, National Chief Executive Officer and board member, who served as Interim Executive Director during the leadership transition. “Stephanie’s dedicated service ensured continuity and stability for our chapters during this important period,” Goodman added.

About National Assistance League

Founded in 1919 in Los Angeles, CA, Assistance League is a nonprofit organization committed to engaging and empowering volunteers to strengthen communities nationwide. The League’s network of 95 independent chapters transforms the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals annually through philanthropic programs addressing education, nutrition, and basic human needs. To find information, visit a chapter or thrift shop near you, go to https://www.assistanceleague.org/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-assistance-league-appoints-judy-zulfiqar-as-executive-director-302686880.html

SOURCE National Assistance League

Experienced nonprofit leader brings proven expertise to strengthen 100-year organization

BURBANK, Calif., Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — National Assistance League announced the appointment of Judy Zulfiqar, MBA, as its new Executive Director. Zulfiqar brings more than 20 years of strategic leadership experience, including proven success in nonprofit organizational turnarounds, financial sustainability, and stakeholder engagement.

“After a comprehensive national search, we are thrilled to welcome Judy to National Assistance League,” said Andrea Goodman, Board Chair. “Her track record of revitalizing organizations, combined with her deep understanding of volunteer engagement and community impact, makes her the ideal leader to guide us into our next century of service. We are confident in her ability to strengthen our network of 95 chapters and position the organization for long-term growth and sustainability.”

Zulfiqar served as Chief Strategist at Watermark Associates from 2015 to 2026, advising clients across diverse industries. In this role, she provided strategic leadership in business planning, marketing, and organizational development while managing cross-functional teams and creating compelling fundraising initiatives that collectively raised millions of dollars for nonprofit clients and events. She also served as Executive Director of Outdoor Adventures by Boojum, where she led the organization’s complete recovery from a two-year COVID-19 shutdown. As Immediate Past District Governor for Rotary District 5330, she led 60 clubs and 1,848 members across Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

“I am honored to join National Assistance League at this pivotal moment in its history,” said Zulfiqar. “The organization’s 100-year legacy of compassionate community service, powered by dedicated volunteers, is remarkable. Together, we will strengthen this organization to serve communities for the next 100 years.”

Goodman also expressed gratitude to Stephanie Chaney Atkins, National Chief Executive Officer and board member, who served as Interim Executive Director during the leadership transition. “Stephanie’s dedicated service ensured continuity and stability for our chapters during this important period,” Goodman added.

About National Assistance League

Founded in 1919 in Los Angeles, CA, Assistance League is a nonprofit organization committed to engaging and empowering volunteers to strengthen communities nationwide. The League’s network of 95 independent chapters transforms the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals annually through philanthropic programs addressing education, nutrition, and basic human needs. To find information, visit a chapter or thrift shop near you, go to https://www.assistanceleague.org/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-assistance-league-appoints-judy-zulfiqar-as-executive-director-302686880.html

SOURCE National Assistance League

Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers partners with La Vega ISD to expand child passenger safety in Waco

WACO, Texas, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers and La Vega Independent School District partnered to expand child passenger safety efforts in Waco, reinforcing a shared commitment to prevention and protecting children beyond the classroom.

La Vega ISD has prioritized booster seat safety following the loss of a student in a motor vehicle crash involving improper restraint. In response, the district strengthened its approach to child passenger safety by discouraging parents from picking up children without a booster seat properly installed.

“A few years ago, we lost a student in a tragic car accident because they were not secured properly,” said Heather Franks, principal at La Vega Primary. “That loss changed us. It’s been our mission to do everything we can to keep our students safe. So, partnering with Daniel Stark has made this opportunity a true blessing for our families.”

Recognizing that safety policies are most effective when families are supported, Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers provided booster seats for students who needed them, helping remove barriers and ensuring families could meet safety expectations.

“When you see firsthand how a serious crash can affect someone physically, emotionally, and professionally, it reinforces why prevention has to be part of our mission,” said Spencer Smith, attorney at Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers. “If we can help prevent those injuries from ever happening, that’s an impact worth making.”

Smith emphasized the importance of addressing safety before a crash occurs.

“Children are one of the most vulnerable groups,” he added. “They can’t provide these safety tools for themselves, which is why partnerships like this matter. By working with schools that put students first, we can help protect kids before something goes wrong.”

The partnership also serves as an early safety message for students and families.

“We’re excited to work with Daniel Stark because safety is central to what they do,” Franks added. “It’s the perfect opportunity to reinforce for our youngest students just how important it is to stay safe when riding in the car with their families.”

The initiative highlights the role schools, families, and community partners play in child passenger safety. Through efforts like this, Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers continues to invest in prevention-focused initiatives across Texas.

For more information about the firm and its community safety initiatives, please visit Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers.

About Daniel Stark: With a team of over 150 employees, Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers is a Texas-based plaintiffs’ personal injury firm committed to providing remarkable legal representation and recovering full value for those impacted by others’ negligence. Founded by friends Danny Daniel and Jonathan Stark, the firm boasts a core purpose of protecting clients with heart and aggression. Daniel Stark operates offices in North and South Austin, Bryan/College Station, Killeen, Waco, and Tyler.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/local-collaboration-focuses-on-protecting-children-before-tragedy-strikes-302686827.html

SOURCE Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers

Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers partners with La Vega ISD to expand child passenger safety in Waco

WACO, Texas, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers and La Vega Independent School District partnered to expand child passenger safety efforts in Waco, reinforcing a shared commitment to prevention and protecting children beyond the classroom.

La Vega ISD has prioritized booster seat safety following the loss of a student in a motor vehicle crash involving improper restraint. In response, the district strengthened its approach to child passenger safety by discouraging parents from picking up children without a booster seat properly installed.

“A few years ago, we lost a student in a tragic car accident because they were not secured properly,” said Heather Franks, principal at La Vega Primary. “That loss changed us. It’s been our mission to do everything we can to keep our students safe. So, partnering with Daniel Stark has made this opportunity a true blessing for our families.”

Recognizing that safety policies are most effective when families are supported, Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers provided booster seats for students who needed them, helping remove barriers and ensuring families could meet safety expectations.

“When you see firsthand how a serious crash can affect someone physically, emotionally, and professionally, it reinforces why prevention has to be part of our mission,” said Spencer Smith, attorney at Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers. “If we can help prevent those injuries from ever happening, that’s an impact worth making.”

Smith emphasized the importance of addressing safety before a crash occurs.

“Children are one of the most vulnerable groups,” he added. “They can’t provide these safety tools for themselves, which is why partnerships like this matter. By working with schools that put students first, we can help protect kids before something goes wrong.”

The partnership also serves as an early safety message for students and families.

“We’re excited to work with Daniel Stark because safety is central to what they do,” Franks added. “It’s the perfect opportunity to reinforce for our youngest students just how important it is to stay safe when riding in the car with their families.”

The initiative highlights the role schools, families, and community partners play in child passenger safety. Through efforts like this, Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers continues to invest in prevention-focused initiatives across Texas.

For more information about the firm and its community safety initiatives, please visit Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers.

About Daniel Stark: With a team of over 150 employees, Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers is a Texas-based plaintiffs’ personal injury firm committed to providing remarkable legal representation and recovering full value for those impacted by others’ negligence. Founded by friends Danny Daniel and Jonathan Stark, the firm boasts a core purpose of protecting clients with heart and aggression. Daniel Stark operates offices in North and South Austin, Bryan/College Station, Killeen, Waco, and Tyler.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/local-collaboration-focuses-on-protecting-children-before-tragedy-strikes-302686827.html

SOURCE Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers

Key Milestone in Expanded Commitment Across Louisiana

TOKYO and HOUSTON, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — JERA Co. Inc., a global energy leader and Japan’s largest power generation company, today announced that through its subsidiary JERA Americas Inc., it has closed on its previously announced agreement with Williams and GEP Haynesville II, LLC to acquire 100% of their respective interests in the South Mansfield upstream asset located in the Haynesville Shale basin in western Louisiana.

The transaction, referred to as the Haynesville Acquisition, further expands JERA’s investment footprint across Louisiana, which spans natural gas, LNG, renewables, advanced fuels, and carbon reduction technologies. Collectively, these investments represent billions of dollars in capital deployment to support job creation, expand local tax bases, and stimulate long‑term economic activity.

Key Louisiana projects include:

• Blue Point low‑carbon ammonia project in Ascension Parish, one of the world’s largest planned facilities of its kind. Developed in partnership with CF Industries and Mitsui & Co., Blue Point is designed to produce approximately 1.4 million tons of ammonia annually using natural gas as feedstock while incorporating carbon capture and storage technology.
• Oxbow Solar Farm, a 300‑megawatt renewable project in Pointe Coupee Parish. The largest solar installation in Louisiana, the project has supported approximately 400 construction jobs over two years and continues to generate long‑term economic benefits for the local community.
• LNG offtake agreements, including 1.2 million tons per annum from Cameron LNG and contracts for up to an additional 3 million tons per annum of future LNG offtake from Louisiana.
• Carbon capture innovation, supported through JERA Ventures, JERA’s venture capital arm, which has partnered with Newlab New Orleans to support the development and commercialization of next‑generation carbon capture technologies targeting emissions from gas‑fired power generation.

“Louisiana is a strategic priority for JERA, and the Haynesville Acquisition — in addition to our other commitments across the state — and underscores our intention to be a long-term partner in Louisiana’s energy economy,” said John O’Brien, chief executive officer of JERA Americas. “We will approach Haynesville with the highest commitment to safety, operational excellence, and respect for the communities where we work, and we look forward to building lasting relationships as we continue expanding our presence here.”

O’Brien continued, “Our growing portfolio demonstrates a long‑term commitment to investing in the state, supporting communities, and strengthening a reliable, more sustainable energy system.”

As announced on October 23, 2025, the Haynesville Acquisition included an upfront investment of $1.5 billion, through which JERA Americas acquired full ownership of the South Mansfield upstream asset from Williams Upstream Holdings and GeoSouthern Energy Corp. The project benefits from proximity to Gulf Coast infrastructure and existing pipeline access, and development plans include capturing and sequestering associated carbon dioxide from production, aligning with JERA’s lower‑carbon strategy.

About JERA Americas
JERA Americas is a large-scale power generation company that provides sustainable, affordable, and stable energy across the United States. We are a leader in lower-carbon fuels projects, including LNG, clean hydrogen, and ammonia for the U.S. and global markets. Headquartered in Houston, JERA Americas is the U.S. subsidiary of Tokyo-based JERA (Japan’s Energy for a New Era) which provides about 30 percent of Japan’s electricity. JERA is one of the largest energy providers and LNG buyers in the world. Read more at jeraamericas.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jera-announces-close-of-haynesville-shale-gas-asset-in-louisiana-302686796.html

SOURCE JERA Americas, Inc

Key Milestone in Expanded Commitment Across Louisiana

TOKYO and HOUSTON, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — JERA Co. Inc., a global energy leader and Japan’s largest power generation company, today announced that through its subsidiary JERA Americas Inc., it has closed on its previously announced agreement with Williams and GEP Haynesville II, LLC to acquire 100% of their respective interests in the South Mansfield upstream asset located in the Haynesville Shale basin in western Louisiana.

The transaction, referred to as the Haynesville Acquisition, further expands JERA’s investment footprint across Louisiana, which spans natural gas, LNG, renewables, advanced fuels, and carbon reduction technologies. Collectively, these investments represent billions of dollars in capital deployment to support job creation, expand local tax bases, and stimulate long‑term economic activity.

Key Louisiana projects include:

• Blue Point low‑carbon ammonia project in Ascension Parish, one of the world’s largest planned facilities of its kind. Developed in partnership with CF Industries and Mitsui & Co., Blue Point is designed to produce approximately 1.4 million tons of ammonia annually using natural gas as feedstock while incorporating carbon capture and storage technology.
• Oxbow Solar Farm, a 300‑megawatt renewable project in Pointe Coupee Parish. The largest solar installation in Louisiana, the project has supported approximately 400 construction jobs over two years and continues to generate long‑term economic benefits for the local community.
• LNG offtake agreements, including 1.2 million tons per annum from Cameron LNG and contracts for up to an additional 3 million tons per annum of future LNG offtake from Louisiana.
• Carbon capture innovation, supported through JERA Ventures, JERA’s venture capital arm, which has partnered with Newlab New Orleans to support the development and commercialization of next‑generation carbon capture technologies targeting emissions from gas‑fired power generation.

“Louisiana is a strategic priority for JERA, and the Haynesville Acquisition — in addition to our other commitments across the state — and underscores our intention to be a long-term partner in Louisiana’s energy economy,” said John O’Brien, chief executive officer of JERA Americas. “We will approach Haynesville with the highest commitment to safety, operational excellence, and respect for the communities where we work, and we look forward to building lasting relationships as we continue expanding our presence here.”

O’Brien continued, “Our growing portfolio demonstrates a long‑term commitment to investing in the state, supporting communities, and strengthening a reliable, more sustainable energy system.”

As announced on October 23, 2025, the Haynesville Acquisition included an upfront investment of $1.5 billion, through which JERA Americas acquired full ownership of the South Mansfield upstream asset from Williams Upstream Holdings and GeoSouthern Energy Corp. The project benefits from proximity to Gulf Coast infrastructure and existing pipeline access, and development plans include capturing and sequestering associated carbon dioxide from production, aligning with JERA’s lower‑carbon strategy.

About JERA Americas
JERA Americas is a large-scale power generation company that provides sustainable, affordable, and stable energy across the United States. We are a leader in lower-carbon fuels projects, including LNG, clean hydrogen, and ammonia for the U.S. and global markets. Headquartered in Houston, JERA Americas is the U.S. subsidiary of Tokyo-based JERA (Japan’s Energy for a New Era) which provides about 30 percent of Japan’s electricity. JERA is one of the largest energy providers and LNG buyers in the world. Read more at jeraamericas.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jera-announces-close-of-haynesville-shale-gas-asset-in-louisiana-302686796.html

SOURCE JERA Americas, Inc

New campaign celebrates mentorship as a movement rooted in human connection

MIAMI, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami (BBBS Miami) officially debuted its newest community-wide campaign, “We All Have a Little in Common,” with a public premiere during halftime of the Miami Heat vs. Orlando Magic game at the Kaseya Center.

As thousands of fans looked on, a campaign video illuminated the arena, celebrating mentorship as a movement rooted in human connection. Executives and staff of BBBS Miami, along with corporate and community partners, Bigs, and Littles, gathered at halfcourt to mark the launch—symbolizing a shared commitment to the young people of Miami-Dade County and the responsibility of helping them succeed.

Gale Nelson, President and CEO of BBBS Miami, emphasized the campaign’s core message of connection and responsibility. “Every Big, every partner, every supporter proves that when we invest in a child, we invest in what connects us all,” said Nelson. “Making a Big impact doesn’t require a big title or lots of money; it simply requires the courage to commit and show up for the children in our community. At the end of the day, we all have a Little in common.”

At the heart of the campaign is a simple but powerful truth: mentorship does not require perfection—only presence. BBBS Miami’s volunteer mentors, known as Bigs, come from every walk of life, including artists and entrepreneurs, teachers and first responders, students and executives. While their backgrounds may differ, they share one common bond: a commitment to be there for a child, guiding them toward a brighter future.

The campaign positions mentoring not as a single act of service, but as a growing movement of community changemakers. Bigs, corporate partners, sponsors, donors, and volunteers all play a role in ensuring that Littles feel seen, supported and empowered to reach their full potential. Through mentorship and meaningful relationships, BBBS Miami helps young people build confidence, strengthen decision-making skills, and envision new possibilities for their futures.

During the halftime recognition, BBBS Miami was joined by several “Game Changing” partners, including Amazon, Barry University, CNW Courier Network, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., St. Thomas University, TD Bank, T-ROC, and local first responders. Each organization represents a pathway through which the community supports mentorship, from funding and volunteer recruitment to advocacy and awareness.

Beyond highlighting the diversity of its supporters, “We All Have a Little in Common” carries a broader message. The campaign reminds audiences that society thrives when people come together around shared humanity rather than focusing on perceived differences. No matter who we are or where we come from, we all share the capacity to guide, uplift, and inspire the next generation.

“There are so many ways to be part of this movement: Become a Big, invest as a partner, or support our programs; every role matters” shared Rebekah Lanae Lengel, Chief Operating Officer, BBBS Miami.

BBBS Miami also used the campaign launch to underscore the ongoing need for mentors. Many Littles in Miami-Dade County are still waiting to be matched with a Big, with an especially urgent need for male mentors who can provide positive role models and consistent guidance. Expanding the network of volunteers and securing resources to sustain life-changing programs remain top priorities for the organization.

“There are so many ways to be part of this movement: Become a Big, invest as a partner, or support our programs; every role matters as we work to reach Littles who are still waiting”, shared Rebekah Lanae Lengel, Chief Operating Officer, BBBS Miami.

Through “We All Have a Little in Common,” BBBS Miami is calling on the community to take action—by becoming a Big, partnering as a sponsor, donating, or helping spread the message. The goal is simple but powerful: to ensure that every child who needs a mentor has one.

To view the We all have a Little in common campaign video HERE

To learn more or to get involved, visit ALittleinCommon.com or BBBSMiami.org.

Media Contact:
Suzan McDowell
305-490-9145

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/we-all-have-a-little-in-common-bbbs-miami-launches-new-mentoring-campaign-at-miami-heat-halftime-302686723.html

SOURCE Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Paralyzed Veterans of America Chief Executive Officer Carl Blake released the following statement after the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee marked up the Sharri Briley and Eric Edmundson Veterans Benefits Expansion Act (H.R. 6047).

“Today’s markup of the Sharri Briley and Eric Edmundson Veterans Benefits Expansion Act is an important step forward, but momentum must not stall. Catastrophically disabled veterans and their surviving families have waited decades for updated benefits, and they cannot wait any longer.”

Blake continued, “Outdated benefits leave veterans and surviving families struggling to meet basic needs, not because they failed, but because the system has failed them. As PVA National Treasurer Tom Wheaton said in his December testimony before the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, these benefits are not extras; they are lifelines. We urge House leadership to act quickly to deliver long-overdue relief.”

To learn more about this bill, read PVA’s 2026 policy priorities, send a letter to your member of Congress, or receive legislative alerts, join PVAction Force at PVA.org/PolicyPriorities.

About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis.

As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Learn more at PVA.org.

Contact: Kristina Packard
(703) 282-8121 cell
KristinaP@PVA.org

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/paralyzed-veterans-of-america-issues-statement-following-markup-of-the-sharri-briley-and-eric-edmundson-veterans-benefits-expansion-act-302686699.html

SOURCE Paralyzed Veterans of America