Tag: PR Newswire

PRESCOTT, Ariz., April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Prescott College is celebrating the launch of the new cycling team, known as the Prescott College Roadrunners. Under the leadership of Coach Phil Reimer, the Roadrunners have participated in the Mountain Bike Association of Arizona, completing three races and continuing the series in April and May. Reimer is an experienced and decorated cyclist and USA Cycling Olympic level cycling coach, having previously coached the Northern Arizona University Cycling Team.

The Prescott College Roadrunners cyclists have successfully landed in the top ten for each race and look forward to racing in the upcoming Whiskey Off-Road in their home city of Prescott on April 25-27, as well as in Flagstaff in May. They are looking forward to racing in the Southwest Collegiate Cycling Conference Races beginning in late August with the opportunity to race throughout Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico.

“The launch of the Roadrunners cycling team is an invigorating step for Prescott College,” said Prescott College President Dr. Barbara J. Morris. “Steeped in a history of creating interdisciplinary, experiential, and diverse learning environments, adding a competitive cycling team is the next iteration of Prescott College growth, as we continue to expand our engagement in our local and regional communities. We look forward to competing in the upcoming season.”

The city of Prescott and greater community are invited to visit the Prescott College Roadrunners’ booth, #26, at the Whiskey Off-Road. Help cheer on our local team and enjoy some free Roadrunners merchandise. More information about the Prescott College Roadrunners can be found at pcroadrunners.com.

Prescott College, founded in 1966, has over a half-century of leadership in developing and refining experiential and online educational models that have kept the college at the forefront of institutions seeking to address urgent issues currently facing human societies. Collaborative learning, multidisciplinary studies, and experiential and field-based learning are hallmarks of the Prescott educational experience. Prescott offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as certificate options. Prescott College students are educators, activists, counselors, researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs—all of whom are eager to make a difference in their local and global communities. Prescott College is proud to serve a diverse student body that is passionate about making a long-lasting impact on society and the environment.

For more information, visit Prescott.edu.

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SOURCE Prescott College

ANAHEIM, Calif., April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — International Motors, LLC * (International) introduces the newest addition to the company’s electric vehicle lineup – an all-electric Class 8 regional haul tractor, the International^® eRH™ Series.

Designed to meet the demands of heavy-duty regional and drayage fleets, the eRH Series is available in 4×2 and 6×4 axle configurations, and offers a range of up to 300 miles, depending on configuration, battery capacity, and use.

“We are excited to add the eRH to serve International’s Class 8 battery-electric customers,” said Justina Morosin, senior vice president, Sales and Field Operations, International. “This new solution perfectly complements our current battery-electric vehicle lineup and underscores our commitment to innovation. At International, our focus is on providing a seamless journey—from the initial purchase to ongoing support—ensuring a smooth customer experience every step of the way.”

Built on the proven foundation of the diesel-powered RH Series, the eRH is optimized for productivity in local and regional haul applications. It features a 113″ bumper to back of cab (BBC) measurement for optimized forward visibility, as well as industry leading wheelbases for tight turning radius. These, along with the Bendix Fusion integrated driver assistance system, provides for safer road operations. The ergonomic design provides ample space and conveniently grouped switches for ease of use.

“I’m proud of the R&D and all cross functional teams at International. Bringing the eRH to the market was no small task, and it’s something everyone takes pride in,” said Michael Grahe, executive vice president of Research and Development, International. “Our teams have been working hand in hand with our customers throughout this development process to ensure that the eRH not only meets the demands of their business today but will continue to do so well into the future as the landscape of commercial transportation evolves.”

The eRH comes with lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery configuration options ranging from 300kWh to 500kWh usable battery capacity, providing high energy density in a compact space. This also allows the eRH to come packaged with low curb weight, which maximizes payload and profit for the customer.

The tandem and single eAxle configurations reduce the complexity and maximize efficiency of the vehicle drivetrain. This results in lower total operating costs while providing peak and continuous power with optimal performance. The eRH offers three levels of driver-selectable regenerative braking, extending range while allowing drivers to best suit their needs.

“We’ve invested heavily in infrastructure, operations and training to ensure we are ready to adopt battery electric vehicles as they become available,” said Paul Rosa, senior vice president, Procurement and Fleet Planning, Penske. “We are excited to be among the first to demonstrate the capabilities of the eRH.”

International offers consulting services to assist customers throughout the process, including infrastructure readiness, onboarding, and grant support. International planned maintenance Service Contracts are designed to ensure that customers’ operating, maintenance, and service needs are met and supported by an extensive dealer network.

International^® Financial offers competitive loan and lease financing options for electric vehicles, chargers, internal combustion-powered vehicles and more. Additionally, International Financial offers an exclusive Payment Program for International Service Contracts, enabling customers to make affordable monthly payments over the term of the contract, with no finance cost. Visit International Financial for more information.

Series production of the eRH will start in the first half of 2026. For more information, visit International.com or attend ACT Expo April 28 – May 1 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Stop by the International booth (#5640) and experience the eRH firsthand at the ride and drive exhibition to experience.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL

Based in Lisle, Illinois, International Motors, LLC* creates solutions that deliver greater uptime and productivity to our customers throughout the full operation of our commercial vehicles. We build International^® trucks and engines and IC Bus^® school and commercial buses that are as tough and as smart as the people who drive them. We also develop Fleetrite^® aftermarket parts. In everything we do, our vision is to accelerate the impact of sustainable mobility to create the cleaner, safer world we all deserve. As of 2021, we joined Scania, MAN and Volkswagen Truck & Bus in TRATON GROUP, a global champion of the truck and transport services industry. To learn more, visit www.International.com.

*International Motors, LLC is d/b/a International Motors USA LLC in Illinois and Ohio.

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SOURCE International Motors, LLC

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) announced this month to the Catholic Charities network that it will launch a nationwide storytelling exhibit, People of Hope: Faith-Filled Stories of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, in 2026. Designed to amplify the profound impact of Christian service, the ambitious project is made possible thanks to a 2024 grant of nearly $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. through an invitational round of its National Storytelling Initiative on Christian Faith and Life.

The cornerstone of People of Hope will be an immersive experience that will tour the United States for two-and-a-half years, highlighting sacred stories of service — moments that reveal the power of volunteering, the awe of encountering others at their most vulnerable and the transformation that occurs when we live out our faith through service. The exhibit, housed in a retrofitted tractor trailer, will share professionally produced, first-person accounts from staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities agencies across the country about meaningful and memorable encounters with families and individuals in need. Visitors will be invited to record their own inspirational stories of service, and a national advertising campaign will supplement the traveling exhibit. 

“We are incredibly grateful to Lilly Endowment for offering us the opportunity to shine a light on the transcendent power that springs from the simple but profound act of helping another human being in need,” CCUSA President and CEO Kerry Alys Robinson said. “Through this exhibit, we hope to inspire more people of hope all around the United States to seek out opportunities to love and serve our neighbors, to be Christ-like in response to human suffering, deprivation or injustice.”

In a national survey conducted earlier this year by Campos, a market research and strategy firm based in Pittsburgh, on behalf of CCUSA, only 11 percent of respondents reported that they volunteer their time at a local organization or event. But 67 percent of those surveyed said they were “very open” or “somewhat open” to volunteering. Among those who are open to volunteering, three motivations were rated as the most likely to inspire them to do so: “to help others,” “to express empathy for those who need help” and “to feel more connected to my community.”

“Generosity is humankind’s birthright, and volunteer work allows us to be generous with our most valuable assets: our time and attention,” Robinson said. “As I travel around the country visiting our local Catholic Charities agencies, all the volunteers I encounter tell me some version of the same message: that, paradoxically, they are the true beneficiaries of their encounters with those they serve.”

Through People of Hope, CCUSA aims to highlight not only the profound impact Christian service has on the people involved and their communities but the myriad opportunities to engage in service across the country through Catholic Charities agencies and other mission-aligned organizations. The Catholic Charities network, which includes 168 independent local Catholic Charities agencies, served more than 16 million people last year thanks in part to the efforts of more than 200,000 volunteers.

In November 2024, Lilly Endowment awarded grants to CCUSA and 11 other organizations as part of an invitational round of its National Storytelling Initiative on Christian Faith and Life. After spending several months further developing People of Hope, CCUSA unveiled the project to the diocesan directors of its member agencies at its annual Spring Gathering this month. Selected stories of service from Catholic Charities staff and volunteers will be professionally recorded this summer at CCUSA’s office in Alexandria, Virginia, and the traveling exhibit will launch in the spring of 2026.

About Lilly Endowment
Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion. Although the Endowment maintains a special commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana, it also funds programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion. A principal aim of the Endowment’s religion grantmaking is to deepen and enrich the lives of Christians in the United States, primarily by seeking out and supporting efforts that enhance the vitality of congregations and strengthen the pastoral and lay leadership of Christian communities. The Endowment also seeks to foster public understanding about religion and lift up in fair, accurate and balanced ways the roles that people of all faiths and diverse religious communities play in the United State and around the globe.

About CCUSA
Founded in 1910, CCUSA is a national membership organization that supports and represents 168 Catholic Charities agencies across the United States. Collectively, the Catholic Charities network each year serves more than 16 million vulnerable people, regardless of their faith or background, through food and nutrition programs, affordable housing, disaster relief and a variety of other humanitarian services.

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SOURCE Catholic Charities USA

ANSI and NIST Co-chair; IAPMO Serves as 2025 Administrating Organization

NEW YORK, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From the water we drink, to the buildings we inhabit, to the transportation systems we rely on, nearly every aspect of our daily lives is safeguarded by private-sector-led, voluntary standards. Recognizing the dedicated individuals and robust frameworks that make standards for public health and safety a reality in our increasingly complex world, the 2025 U.S. Celebration of World Standards Day (WSD) will celebrate the theme, “Standards for Public Health and Safety.”

Launched in 1970, WSD is an annual event recognizing the importance of various stakeholder groups across the standards community, including business leaders, industry, academia, and government. U.S. activities are organized by a planning committee consisting of representatives from the standards and conformity assessment community, and co-chaired by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This year, the U.S. Celebration of WSD will take place on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center in Rockville, MD. IAPMO will serve as the 2025 administrating organization.

Each year, WSD features a theme relevant to the broader community and its priorities. In 2025, the U.S. standards community will reflect on how we can achieve greater public health and safety through collaborative standardization efforts, developing solutions for complex global challenges. The celebration will highlight how the standards community comes together time and again, across industries and sectors, to guide the development of consistent benchmarks for quality, performance, and safety.

Access more information on the U.S. Celebration of World Standards Day webpage.

About ANSI

The American National Standards Institute, Inc. (ANSI) is a private non-profit organization whose mission is to enhance both the global competitiveness of U.S. business and the U.S. quality of life by promoting and facilitating voluntary consensus standards and conformity assessment systems, and safeguarding their integrity. Its membership is comprised of businesses, professional societies and trade associations, standards developers, government agencies, and consumer and labor organizations.

The Institute represents and serves the diverse interests of more than 270,000 companies and organizations and 30 million professionals worldwide. ANSI is the official U.S. representative to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and, via the U.S. National Committee, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). For more information, visit www.ansi.org.

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SOURCE American National Standards Institute

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla., April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Virga Law Firm, P.A., is proud to announce its participation in the upcoming “Walk in My Shoes” walk-a-thon, an annual statewide awareness walk organized by Lauren’s Kids to support survivors and raise awareness of domestic violence and child sexual abuse. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the walk, which will span over 1,500 miles across the state of Florida—from Key West to Tallahassee.

The Virga Law Firm, P.A., team will be walking in the Panama City leg of the journey on Saturday, April 26, 2025, alongside community members and local partner, the Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center. The initial two-mile loop will begin and end at the Gulf Coast CAC, located at 210 E 11th St, Panama City, FL 32401, with a meeting time of 8:30 AM.

This cause holds deep significance for long-time family law attorney Gerard Virga, who emphasizes the importance of community involvement and awareness in the fight against abuse. “At The Virga Law Firm, we believe in standing up for the most vulnerable members of our community. Events like this remind us all of the power of support, education, and solidarity,” said Virga.

With over 20 years of experience advocating for Florida families, The Virga Law Firm, P.A., is committed to promoting a safer, more informed community. The firm encourages clients, friends, and community members to join them in supporting this vital cause.

To sign up for the Panama City walk, please visit:
 https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/PanamaCity/WalkInMyShoesPanamaCity

For more information about the walk and Lauren’s Kids, visit:
http://laurenskidswalk.org

Together, we can make a difference, one step at a time.

For press inquiries, reach out to Marketing Director Mary Virga at mary.virga@thevirgalawfirm.com.

The Virga Law Firm, P.A., is a Florida-based family law practice dedicated to compassionate advocacy and legal excellence. The firm provides trusted counsel in divorce, custody, and all areas of family law.

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SOURCE The Virga Law Firm, P.A.

SEATTLE, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The devastating consequences of efforts to eliminate fossil fuels in the Pacific Northwest within the next two decades are exposed in a new documentary called “What Does It Cost?” and released by Discovery Institute from filmmaker Ken Peterson and Hat Rock Capital LLC explores.

Lawmakers in Oregon and Washington State have passed ambitious legislation in recent years to combat climate change, aiming to produce 100% of electricity from zero- emission sources by 2040 and 2045, respectively. The documentary argues that these lawmakers have not considered the drastic price tag of these goals — $549.9 billion by 2050, and $1 trillion total.

“I was shocked by two things I learned while making this documentary,” says writer and director Ken Peterson. “First, politicians and those supporting the new laws did not carefully determine what it would cost to comply with them. Second, the costs of trying to obey the laws will be crushing for our citizens.”

The documentary draws heavily from a report by Jonathan Lesser and Mitch Rolling, published by Discovery Institute last fall. The report concluded that net zero energy policies implemented by Washington State and Oregon would result in crippling costs to residents with little to no effect on global climate change. Electricity rates will increase by 450%, with the electrical grid experiencing a demand it cannot meet. Yet the resulting decrease in world temperature would be only 0.003 ⁰C.

“This documentary demonstrates the importance of ensuring society has ample supplies of affordable and reliable energy resources,” explains Lesser. “Without those, modern society cannot be sustained. As our analyses have demonstrated empirically, relying on intermittent wind and solar energy is impractical and ruinously expensive. Moreover, we do not face a choice between poverty and clean energy. Clean and reliable nuclear power can provide the needed energy without sacrificing the environment.”

Mitch Rolling adds, “For most of my career in the energy industry, there has been a widely held belief that wind and solar are the cheapest sources of electricity. The truth, highlighted in this documentary, is that utilizing wind and solar is one of the most expensive and unreliable ways to operate an electric grid, and doing so will have devastating effects for families and businesses who all rely on electricity for their livelihoods.”

Discovery Institute is a non-profit educational and research organization whose mission is to advance a culture of purpose, creativity, and innovation with programs in areas such as economics, education, technology, bioethics, and artificial intelligence.

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SOURCE Discovery Institute

ORLANDO, Fla., April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SeaWorld parks will honor Military Appreciation Month with free one-day admission for U.S. military veterans and up to three guests. Veterans can register for this offer now through May 11 and have until July 6* to visit the parks with their free tickets. Active-duty military and their guests continue to enjoy one-day complimentary admission all year long. The offers are part of United Parks & Resorts’ Waves of Honor program, a longstanding partnership saluting active-duty military members, veterans and their families by offering special pricing and promotions throughout the year.

For more than 20 years, the company has been proud to provide complimentary park access to members of the United States military, and as a result, more than 10 million guests – active-duty military members, veterans and their families – have enjoyed free admission through the Waves of Honor program. Whether it’s educational animal experiences or thrilling attractions, military families are invited to the parks for a day of family fun.

“We are proud to honor active-duty military, veterans and their families with a complimentary visit to one of our parks,” said Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Resorts. “We are incredibly grateful to all members of our military for their commitment and dedication to serving our country. The Waves of Honor program extends a small token of our appreciation to those who are serving or who have served. We look forward to welcoming military service members, veterans and their families for a fun-filled day in one of our parks.”

Eligible U.S military veterans and retirees can register for complimentary single-day ticket(s) for themselves and up to three dependents before May 11 at www.WavesofHonor.com. After registering, all tickets must be redeemed by July 6*. Service members and their direct dependents must have a valid active military ID to participate.

Any U.S. active-duty military activated or drilling reservist or National Guardsman can also take advantage of one complimentary admission for themselves and up to three dependents per year to SeaWorld. Additional discounts and offers are available for active military and veterans through MWR and ITT offices on U.S. military bases and online at www.WavesofHonor.com. These offers are available year-round and may differ by park.

*SeaWorld San Diego guests have until May 26, 2025 to visit the park with their free tickets.

About SeaWorld

SeaWorld is a leading marine life theme park and accredited zoo and aquarium that provides experiences that matter while educating and inspiring guests of all ages to care about marine life. Welcoming millions of guests every year, the parks offer fun and enriching experiences from up-close animal encounters and year-round educational programs to award-winning marine-life themed rides and attractions, special events and exciting entertainment. For more than 60 years SeaWorld has advanced the conservation of marine life in and outside its parks through science, education, and exceptional animal care that is Humane Certified by American Humane and accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. SeaWorld is one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world, helping more than 40,000 animals to date. The SeaWorld Conservation Fund, a non-profit foundation established in 2003, has provided more than $20 million to nearly 1,400 organizations to advance critical research on every continent. A portion of park proceeds goes toward supporting these longstanding conservation commitments. SeaWorld parks are in Orlando, San Antonio, San Diego and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). SeaWorld is part of the United Parks & Resorts (NYSE:PRKS) portfolio of theme park brands. For more information, visit us at SeaWorld.com.

mediarelations@seaworld.com

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SOURCE SeaWorld

New OneCause Research Finds Average Auction Gift of $529 and 64% of Donors Reporting Likelihood to Become Monthly Givers

INDIANAPOLIS, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OneCause, a leading provider of event and online fundraising solutions, is pleased to announce the release of the 2025 State of Nonprofit Auctions Report. This groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind comprehensive report offers deep insights into the nonprofit auction landscape, bringing together feedback from auction donors, nonprofit professionals who host auctions, and real-time data from the OneCause Fundraising Platform.

As nonprofits continue to trailblaze and evolve their fundraising efforts, regardless of economic uncertainty, the 2025 State of Nonprofit Auctions Report highlights a bright spot: the undeniable power of auctions to generate revenue and drive long-term donor loyalty.

“This report is a must-have resource for nonprofits looking to elevate their auction strategies,” said Steve Johns, chief executive officer of OneCause. “Auctions are more than just a fundraising tactic, they’re powerful tools for acquisition, retention, and long-term growth. The 2025 State of Nonprofit Auctions Report demonstrates how auctions, with the right approach and technology, can generate more revenue while building a lasting foundation for donor loyalty and organizational impact.”

The report reveals key trends, challenges, and opportunities in the nonprofit auction sector.

Key findings include:

• Auction Attendees as a Long-Term Donor Pipeline: Auction attendees are not just one-time participants—they’re loyal and engaged supporters who are likely to attend future events and contribute on an ongoing basis. A remarkable 83% of auction attendees indicated they would return for future events from the same organization, and 64% expressed interest in becoming monthly donors.
• Proven Revenue Generation: 77% of nonprofit professionals reported consistent or increased revenue from auctions, with 90% of respondents expecting this trend to continue in the next year. The report confirms that when executed well, nonprofit auctions are an effective way to raise both immediate revenue and drive long-term donor engagement.
• The Power of Auction Items: Offering a diverse range of items is key to boosting engagement and participation. The report highlights the importance of balancing high-end items with more affordable options to appeal to a wider audience and increase bids. Based on OneCause data, the average auction contains 67 items, which raise 134.5% of their value.
• The Role of Technology in Auction Success: Auction technology, including mobile bidding, outbid notifications, and buy-it-now options, plays a critical role in enhancing attendee experience, particularly among younger donors. The report reveals that 65% of Gen Z and Millennial auction participants value features like outbid notifications via text and AI-powered personalized item suggestions based on their bidding interests.

“As the nonprofit sector continues to rapidly change, auctions provide a unique opportunity to raise immediate funds while simultaneously nurturing long-term donor relationships,” added Johns. “By utilizing the data-driven insights in this report and focusing on creating exceptional auction experiences, nonprofits can ensure sustainable revenue growth and build a loyal, engaged donor base for the future.”

Download and Discover More

• Full Report: 2025 State of Nonprofit Auctions
• Key Findings Webinar
• Blog
• Infographic
• Video

About OneCause
OneCause is driving the future of fundraising with easy-to-use digital fundraising solutions that help nonprofits improve the giving experience and raise more money. OneCause builds technology that optimizes everyday generosity, making it easier for nonprofit organizations to fundraise and for nonprofit supporters to give. Since 2008, OneCause has helped over 14,000 nonprofits in the United States and Canada raise more than $8 billion for their missions. OneCause is committed to driving innovation in the charitable sector, bringing together nonprofit professionals across the world for the annual Raise Conference to exchange ideas that further fundraising. For more information, visit www.onecause.com or follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook.

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SOURCE OneCause

• Infrared fitness brand to host check presentation and book signing event with Founder Stephen P. Smith in Waxahachie, TX
• The donation is a direct reflection of HOTWORX’s commitment to supporting those who serve and women in the fight against breast cancer
• Money for this donation was raised through the brand’s inaugural Workouts for Heroes campaign

NEW ORLEANS, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HOTWORX^®, the first-ever 24-hour infrared fitness studio franchise, will present a over $19,000 donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) during a special check presentation and book signing event on Wednesday, April 30, from 4–6 p.m. at the HOTWORX Waxahachie Marketplace studio.

This contribution, raised through HOTWORX’s “Workouts for Heroes” campaign, supports NBCF’s Military Women’s Patient Relief Fund, providing critical aid to breast cancer patients with military backgrounds.

“This donation is a meaningful continuation of our mission to support those who serve, both in uniform and in the fight against breast cancer,” said Stephen Smith, Founder and CEO of HOTWORX. “We’re proud to stand with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and to give back in a way that directly impacts women in the military community.”

In addition to the donation ceremony, the event will feature a book signing with Smith, who will be signing copies of his book Hot Exercise. Since the book’s debut in 2021, it has remained on the Amazon Best Seller list in the business franchise category and has reached the top 10 numerous times over the past four years. Attendees will also have a chance to participate in a raffle, with one lucky winner earning the opportunity to complete a HOTWORX workout session alongside Smith himself.

A Year of Giving Back
HOTWORX launched its Workouts for Heroes initiative in December 2024 as an expansion of the successful Hiking for Heroes campaign. Members were invited to dedicate workouts in honor of veterans by purchasing Dedication Ribbons displayed in their local studios. Contributions ranged from $1 to $10, with funds going toward veteran families supported by the Sacred Mountain Retreat Center (SMRC) and NBCF.

In October, HOTWORX also raised $28,000 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation through its “Pink Camo” towel promotion during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

For more information about HOTWORX and to find a location near you, visit hotworx.net. For more on franchising opportunities with HOTWORX, visit: hotworx.net/franchising.

ABOUT HOTWORX^®
Founded in Marrero, La., HOTWORX introduces a groundbreaking fitness program and is one of the fastest-growing franchises worldwide, known for its innovative approach to infrared fitness training. With over 700 studio locations and over 250,000 members, HOTWORX provides members with an immersive, virtual exercise experience that combines the benefits of infrared heat with either 30-minute isometric workouts or 15-minute High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) sessions. Using its patented infrared sauna, HOTWORX offers a “3D Training” method, uniquely blending heat, infrared energy, and exercise for a deep, detoxifying workout. Members can conveniently book sessions through the HOTWORX Burn Off app, making fitness accessible and secure.

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SOURCE HOTWORX

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — VyStar Credit Union and Family Support Services (FSS) proudly partnered on a groundbreaking program, the first of its kind in the country, designed to provide financial education and banking access to youth in foster care in Florida. This program officially debuted with a “Financial Independence Signing Day” event held on Friday, April 18 at the VyStar Credit Union Roosevelt Branch in Jacksonville, FL.

Financial Independence Signing Day was a high-energy, celebratory event, much like a college signing day. The first group of individuals who successfully completed VyStar’s Fostering Financial Fitness program and received their emancipation orders proudly took a major step toward adulthood. Instead of committing to a school, they committed to their financial future, symbolically signing for their first checking and savings accounts and embracing financial independence. To accommodate foster youth who may face transportation challenges, a virtual component was added to the Financial Fitness training, making it easier for them to complete the program. As a result, 36 foster youth have successfully completed the training.

As part of VyStar’s Fostering Financial Fitness program, the credit union’s Florida branches will be designated as Foster Friendly branches where member services representatives have received training to assist youth in foster care with opening bank accounts and provide support as they navigate the financial process.

“As a community-based credit union, VyStar is dedicated to ensuring every young adult, especially those aging out of foster care has access to the financial tools they need to succeed,” said Dana Karzan, VyStar Chief Marketing Officer. “By offering a fully online financial education course and making account access easier, we’re removing unnecessary barriers and helping youth in foster care build a strong financial future.” 

Youth in foster care often struggle to open checking and savings accounts due to legal barriers, limiting their ability to develop financial independence. In 2022 alone, 18,500 youth nationally exited foster care without being adopted, placing them at higher risk of financial instability, homelessness, and other adverse life experiences. Locally, FSS reported just over 1,200 youth in out-of-home care in Duval and Nassau counties at the end of March 2025, including 360 young people ages 13-23 in foster care, Extended Foster Care, and other support programs.

“Opening a bank account and having family support is so routine for many of us that we barely give it a second thought – but not all our kids have that experience,” said Maria Oxford, FSS’ Independent Living and Youth Well Being Manager. “For our young adults in care, having a community partner like VyStar wrap around them is a milestone moment marking the beginning of their financial empowerment. VyStar’s commitment to making their branches a welcoming, supportive space for foster youth exemplifies what it means to be part of a community of care.”

For interviews, b-roll, and images from the event, please click here to access and download the media assets.

About VyStar Credit Union
VyStar Credit Union is the second-largest credit union headquartered in Florida, with 79 full-service branches across Florida and Georgia, 1 million members and assets of over $14 billion. VyStar is the top mortgage lender in Northeast Florida and a major employer in the region with over 2,500 employees across the communities it serves. VyStar membership is open to everyone who lives or works in the 49 contiguous counties of Central to North Florida, 29 Georgia counties, and past and present military members and their families all over the world. VyStar members have access to 55,000 surcharge free ATMs worldwide. For more information, visit vystarcu.org, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn. 

About Family Support Services (FSS) of Duval and Nassau Counties
Family Support Services is the lead agency for family preservation, foster care, and adoption services in Duval, Nassau, Pasco and Pinellas counties. Through community-based care, FSS provides services and programs to help prevent child abuse and neglect, to promote a healthy family environment and to care for our community’s children in foster care. For more information, go to www.familysupport.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn.

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SOURCE VyStar Credit Union