CSRwire Press Releases, Events and Reports

MBA Students Tackle Corporate Social Responsibility in Annual Competition.

2010-02-09 15:57:15 -0500

For the fourth year in a row MBA students from across Canada and the United States are coming to Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto to compete in a case competition focusing on corporate social responsibility (CSR). The 4th Annual Rotman International Net Impact Corporate Social Responsibility Case Competition will take place on Saturday, February 13. Participants include teams from the University of Alberta School of Business, John Molson Business School at Concordia University, Drexel University, HEC Montreal, York University's Schulich School of Business, DePaul University McGill University's Desautels Faculty of Management, and Queen's University. "The goal of this competition is to increase CSR awareness among future decision makers and to change the perception from CSR as a good deed to viewing it as an everyday part of corporate branding and strategy for firms," says Julia Koo, a Rotman MBA student and competition chair. The case will deal with a problem facing multinational corporations and students must find a solution which best successfully deals with both the financial and social bottom lines. Judges for the competition are drawn from a wide range of firms, social organizations and not-for-profit organizations. The competition is generously supported by RIM, Steelcase, AIC Institute for Corporate Citizenship at the Rotman School, and Canadian Centre for Ethics and Corporate Policy Complete details on the competition are available online at: http://www.rotman.utoronto.ca/csrcasecomp The Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto is redesigning business education for the 21st century with a curriculum based on Integrative Thinking. Located in the world's most diverse city, the Rotman School fosters a new way to think that enables the design of creative business solutions. The School is currently raising $200 million to ensure Canada has the world-class business school it deserves. For more information, visit rotman.utoronto.ca.

Chartwells Joins White House Campaign to Eradicate Childhood Obesity

2010-02-09 14:21:12 -0500

Chartwells School Dining Services is joining First Lady Michelle Obama in her national campaign to end childhood obesity within the next generation. As the industry leader in school dining, Chartwells is committed to partnering with the communities it serves to, at a minimum, more than quadruple the number that qualify for gold level nutrition status of the HealthierUS School Challenge by the close of the 2010-2011 school year. "We're honored to accept the White House's invitation to help eradicate childhood obesity and will be an active participant in the campaign," said Steve Sweeney, CEO of Chartwells. "Feeding safe, healthy and environmentally-sustainable meals to children has always been Chartwells' number one priority. Partnering with our schools to qualify for gold level status in the HealthierUS Schools Challenge helps us achieve this." To accomplish the objectives of the HealthierUS School Challenge, Chartwells will work with the White House, federal and state agencies, the school districts it serves and the private sector to:

Make menu and competitive food options available for schools that meet or exceed gold level nutrition standards for fruits, vegetables, whole grains and milk
Increase nutrition education programming targeted to students and parents
Meet the Institute of Medicine recommended standards for fat, sugar and whole grains over the next 5 years and the sodium standard over the next 10 years by pursuing discussions with suppliers to develop products which meet those standards
Encourage participation in the HealthierUS School Challenge and provide assistance for achieving gold level status
Work to double produce offered in school meals over the next 10 years.
Research the feasibility of a cost efficient menu that satisfies the HealthierUS School Challenge standards

Keith Cullinan, Chartwells School Dining Services President, further applauds the White House campaign. "Our current health and wellness program, Balanced Choices®, provides the foundation for enabling our school districts to meet or exceed gold level status of the HealthierUS School Challenge. We will provide the schools and communities we serve with the tools and technical assistance needed to meet this challenge." Balanced Choices® is Chartwells' comprehensive approach to creating healthy and environmentally-sustainable school communities and is implemented in all the schools it serves. Launched in 2005, this program focuses on the same key areas that are addressed by the HealthierUS School Challenge and uniquely positions Chartwells to support our school district partners in the important areas of healthy food, nutrition education and physical activity. About Chartwells School Dining Services Chartwells, a division of Charlotte, NC-based Compass Group, provides dining services for over 535 public school districts, serving 2.5 million students in over 4,000 elementary, middle and high schools nationwide. For more information about Chartwells School Dining Services, visit www.eatlearnlive.com.

Nickelodeon to Participate in First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move Campaign to Tackle Childhood Obesity

2010-02-09 12:47:13 -0500

Nickelodeon President Cyma Zarghami announced today that Nickelodeon will join the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, in her nationwide Let's Move www.LetsMove.gov campaign to solve the problem of childhood obesity in this generation. Nickelodeon will offer its resources and research to the campaign, including kid and family-targeted PSAs featuring the First Lady, and special programming events on its channels and websites. "Nickelodeon is honored to work together with the First Lady and to be part of the Let's Move campaign to stop the rise of childhood obesity," Zarghami said. "This is an issue we have been addressing for many years and we are pleased to offer our resources and research expertise about kids and families." For almost seven years, Nickelodeon has empowered kids with resources, tools and the information they need to live healthier lifestyles, and has committed millions of dollars and air time to health and wellness messaging through its "Let's Just Play" pro-social campaign and grants program. Nickelodeon's involvement in Let's Move will augment the campaign's goal to increase healthy schools and kids' physical activity, improve the accessibility and affordability of healthy foods, and empower consumers to make healthier choices in their lives. Nickelodeon has a legacy of addressing important issues to kids including health and wellness. Its "Let's Just Play" campaign has motivated more than one million kids to get out and play during Nick's annual Worldwide Day of Play, and 500,000 kids to pledge to live healthier lifestyles through its Let's Just Play Go Healthy Challenge. Along with partners such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the NFL, The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, William J. Clinton Foundation, American Heart Association and thousands of local schools and community-based organizations, Nickelodeon hosts thousands of health and wellness-themed events annually around the world. Additionally, Nickelodeon has awarded approximately $3 million in grants to schools and after-school programs to help create and expand opportunities for physical play. Nickelodeon and "Let's Just Play" have been recognized by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, CTPAA, Kaiser Family Foundation, Institute of Medicine and the Federal Trade Commission as an example of how media can make a positive impact on kids' lives. Nickelodeon, now in its 30th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 15 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B).

Sodexo Joins First Lady Michelle Obama in National Fight Against Childhood Obesity

2010-02-09 10:03:55 -0500

Sodexo, Inc., world leader in Quality of Daily Life solutions, serving more than 2.8 million school meals daily to students in more than 470 school districts nationwide, announced today its participation in First Lady Michelle Obama's campaign to eliminate childhood obesity within a generation. Collectively, Sodexo and its industry partners serve over 750 million school meals annually. The agreement will affect 135,000 students in the 2010-2011 school year alone. In addition, representatives estimate a potential increase of 18,700,000 meals conforming to standards outlined in the HealthierUS School Challenge. The school lunch providers expect to reach 2 million families with nutrition information. Under the agreement, Sodexo and its industry partners have agreed to support the First Lady's Initiative by including more fruit, juice, vegetable, whole grain and milk options in reimbursable lunches. "At Sodexo, we know that access to good nutrition as part of a holistic approach that includes exercise and other good lifestyle choices benefit children not only in their health and wellness but also in their ability to achieve academic success," said Lorna C. Donatone, Sodexo chief operating officer and Education Market president. "We are proud to advance our current programs, now with the partnership of our industry and the leadership of the White House to combat childhood obesity." Sodexo also agreed to increase nutrition education efforts aimed at students and parents, as well as encourage broader participation in the USDA's HealthierUS School Challenge by providing technical assistance and facilitating paperwork requirements for the schools they serve. Sodexo also commits to working closely with the White House, and continue to work with federal and state agencies, local school districts and others in the private sector to achieve the First Lady's goal to eliminate chilldhood obesity this generation. Over the longer-term, Sodexo and its industry partners commit to working with suppliers to continue to provide healthy food options; undertake research related to cost efficiency and reimbursable meals; work toward meeting the National Institute of Medicine's recommended standards for fat, sugar, and whole grains over the next 5 years and the standards for sodium through a 5% annual reduction over the next ten years; and work to double produce offered in school meals over the next 10 years. By some estimates, this would result in an increase of 100 million pounds of fruits and vegetables served each year once full value is achieved in 10 years. Sodexo, Inc. Sodexo, Inc. (www.sodexoUSA.com), a member of Sodexo Group, is a leading provider of Comprehensive Service Solutions serving more than ten million customers daily in corporations, health care, long term care, retirement, schools, higher education, government and remote sites. Headquartered in Gaithersburg, Md., Sodexo, Inc. operates in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, with $7.7 billion (USD) in annual revenue and 120,000 employees. Sodexo Group (www.sodexo.com), founded in 1966, employs 380,000 people who serve 50 million people daily in 80 countries. The Sodexo Foundation (www.SodexoFoundation.org) is an independent charitable organization that, since its founding in 1999, has made more than $12.7 million in grants to fight hunger in America. Visit the corporate blog at www.sodexoUSA.com/blog.

Yellow+Blue Wines go a Shade Greener

2010-02-09 09:31:46 -0500

Wine importer J. Soif, Inc. has today announced two significant partnerships it has established through its certified organic wine brand, Yellow+Blue, making it the only carbon-neutral wine importer in the U.S. and the only wine importer in the world to put a portion of its sales towards global microloans. Due to its eco-friendly Tetra Pak packaging, the carbon footprint of Yellow+Blue wines is 46% less than that of wine in traditional glass bottles. In order to offset the remaining 54%, the company has purchased 472 metric tons of verified carbon offsets to take responsibility for one hundred percent of the emissions generated by moving its wine from the vineyards to its packaging plants and warehouses. The carbon credits, which were purchased from Boulder, CO based Renewable Choice Energy, support a landfill gas-to-energy carbon reduction project in the United States. "Yellow+Blue's commitment to analyzing its environmental footprint and supporting carbon reduction shows leadership and demonstrates a best practice for environmental responsibility," said Quayle Hodek, CEO of Renewable Choice Energy. "This organization is creating awareness for voluntary carbon reductions and the importance of investing in clean technology solutions." "Keeping in the spirit of our Drink Well Do Good mantra, oenophiles can not only enjoy our wine, they can feel good about buying it," said W. Matthew Cain, founder of Yellow+Blue. "I'm proud to say that Yellow+Blue's investment has the collective environmental impact to help avoid the same amount of CO2 emissions produced by driving nearly 1.1 million miles in an average passenger vehicle." Yellow+Blue has also devoted itself to strengthening the global community by becoming an official partner of Kiva (www.kiva.org), the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website. Yellow+Blue is giving 1 percent of each sale to Kiva, which empowers unique entrepreneurs around the globe and strives to alleviate poverty. Currently, Yellow+Blue is the only wine brand in the world to join the Kiva community of over 662,000 individuals who have loaned more than $117 million to 290,000 entrepreneurs in 51 countries. "Yellow+Blue's decision to work with Kiva is an important milestone for both of our organizations," said Premal Shah, President of Kiva.org. "We're looking forward to all the positive things to come from this partnership and admire its dedication in helping to make Kiva the world's hub for alleviating poverty." "Our commitment to Kiva strives to enable entrepreneurs throughout the world to realize their dreams of creating a company and giving back to their communities," said W. Matthew Cain, founder of Yellow+Blue. "As the only wine company affiliated with the organization, we hope that with each glass of Yellow+Blue poured, an entrepreneur somewhere in the world is a step closer achieving his or her goal." About Yellow+Blue Imported by J. Soif, Inc., Yellow+Blue is proof that exceptional imported wine can travel the world without damaging the planet. Certified organic, Yellow+Blue wine takes advantage of earth-friendly lightweight Tetra Pak cartons that cost significantly less to ship and leave a smaller carbon footprint than glass bottles. For more information and where to purchase Yellow+Blue wines, please visit www.ybwines.com. About Renewable Choice Energy Renewable Choice Energy (http://www.renewablechoice.com) is a leading national provider of renewable energy credits (RECs) and verified emission reductions (VERs) (carbon offsets) to hundreds of Fortune 500 Companies and small businesses, thousands of residential customers, and over 1000 LEED green building projects in the U.S. Founded in 2001, Boulder-Colo.-based Renewable Choice and its clients have received prestigious awards from the EPA and DOE for supporting and expanding the renewable energy market and have been featured in hundreds of media outlets including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CNN, USA TODAY, and more. About Kiva.org Kiva.org is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend to an entrepreneur across the globe. Founded in 2005, Kiva.org's mission is to connect people, through lending, to alleviate poverty. Over 585,000 people have loaned more than $117 million to 290,000 entrepreneurs in 51 countries. Currently, loans made through Kiva.org have a 98% repayment rate. Kiva.org is headquartered in San Francisco.

University of Phoenix Announces Finish Strong(SM) Scholarship Recipients

2010-02-08 15:18:54 -0500

As part of its ongoing commitment to making higher education highly accessible for working students, University of Phoenix is proud to announce the recipients of the 2010 Finish StrongSM Scholarship, which will provide full-tuition undergraduate or master's degree scholarships to 16 deserving men and women. "These recipients have persevered through incredible circumstances and life challenges in their pursuit of higher education," said Bill Pepicello, University of Phoenix President. "We are excited to partner with them, providing a flexible learning environment where they can complete their degrees and jumpstart their future." University of Phoenix created the Finish StrongSM Scholarship in 2009 to help working adults who started, but were unable to complete their college degrees for various reasons, including family obligations, health impediments, and work responsibilities. Scholarship applicants were asked to submit an essay on their desire to advance their education, with an emphasis on furthering their careers and/or impacting their local communities. Scholarship recipients will have the option of choosing to enroll in the University's online program or one of more than 200 University of Phoenix campus locations across the country. Larry Fitzgerald – wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals and a University of Phoenix student – has partnered with the University to encourage applicants to follow in his footsteps and complete their higher education. Fitzgerald recently enrolled at University of Phoenix to complete his degree, after leaving the University of Pittsburgh in 2003 to pursue a career in professional football. "University of Phoenix is the ideal place of learning for adults juggling life responsibilities and academic learning," said Fitzgerald. "Through their dedication and perseverance, these scholarship recipients have proven that education doesn't have to stop just because life happens. I am optimistic that even more people will follow in their footsteps." The recipients of this year's scholarship are: ------------------------ Sean Boardman Westbrook, Conn. ------------- ---------------- Suzanne Chapman Norco, Calif. --------------- ------------- Jesus Cordero El Paso, Texas ------------- -------------- Desiree Drummond Baltimore, Md. ---------------- -------------- Tammy Edwards Fort Wayne, Ind. ------------- ---------------- Christine Hancock Springdale, Ariz. ----------------- ----------------- Lisa Jhala Shelbyville, Ind. ---------- ----------------- Darralyn Johnson Austin, Texas ---------------- ------------- Whitney Marbuary Windsor Mill, Md. ---------------- ----------------- Sophia McDaniel Lancaster, N.Y. --------------- --------------- Robert Myres Pocatello, Ind. ------------ --------------- Robert Olander Phoenix, Ariz. -------------- -------------- Luke Ouderkirk Portland, Ore. -------------- -------------- Chanda Serrano Mililani, Hawaii -------------- ---------------- Dharma Shay Pahoa, Hawaii ----------- ------------- Regina Waldon Phoenix, Ariz. About University of Phoenix University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses, and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. As of November 30, 2009, 455,600 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.

Groundbreaking 93-Page CSR Insight™ Report Just Published On Global Sustainability Regulation, Metrics, and Trends

2010-02-08 14:26:19 -0500

The CSR Insight™ Report, the product of over two years of research, is available now for a limited time on a complimentary basis at www.csr-insight.com. Published by CSR Insight™ LLC, an independent advisory firm focusing exclusively upon global Sustainability Regulation, Metrics, and Public Policy, the CSR Insight™ Report provides a comprehensive and global perspective on key issues pertinent to Sustainability Reporting, Sustainability Investment, and Sustainability Regulation. CSR Insight™ Report Highlights include:

TRENDS Section:

METRICS Section:

REGULATION Section:

CSR Insight™ Viewpoint:

The CSR Insight™ Report is an introduction to three CSR Insight™ archetypal publications, available in May 2010: the CSR Insight™ Regulatory Report, the CSR Insight™ Metrics Report, and the CSR Insight™ Reference Guide.

CSR Insight™ Regulatory Report

CSR Insight™ Metrics Report

CSR Insight™ Reference Guide

Special discounted subscription rates for all three publications are available until April 1, 2010, at http://www.csr-insight.com/subscribe.aspx. CSR Insight™ also provides custom consulting services and is available for public policy advisory work and educational workshops. For more information, please visit www.csr-insight.com or contact info@csr-insight.com.

Starbucks, TransFair and the DOL are Paving the Path Toward a New CSR Landscape

2010-02-08 14:02:09 -0500

The STR RS 5th Annual Responsible Sourcing Summit has gained exceptional traction among senior compliance and ethical trade managers, who are finding the two-day Summit of specific relevance to them. The event will take place on February 25-26, 2010 at the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. STR Responsible Sourcing proudly presents Rachel Rigby of the Department of Labor's (DOL) International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB). Ms. Rigby will be traveling from Washington D.C. to discuss the recently published "DOL List" which highlights a group of 122 goods deriving from 58 countries that the ILAB suspects have been produced using child or forced labor. As one of the report's authors, Ms. Rigby will be imparting her intimate understanding of how this new initiative works and how it may impact business operations. In addition, Virginia Bergin, Ethical Sourcing Regional Manager at Starbucks, will be sharing best practices on how brands can create vendor-owned compliance programs. Ms. Bergin will offer an in-depth look at Starbucks' innovative new partnership, which it has forged with vendor PMI, who will also be presenting. Together, Starbucks and PMI will discuss how vendor-owned compliance programs can be instrumental in eliminating the redundancy of multiple assessments and overlapping standards. Meanwhile, leaders from TransFair will unveil their new Product Traceability Program. Scott Leonard, CEO of Indigenous Designs, will share his company's experience in implementing TransFair's scheme. He will explain why adopting this initiative makes sound business and ethical sense-and discuss some of the lessons learned along the way. For its part, the TriVista Business Group will be making the connection on how strategic Lean Manufacturing practices can help to mitigate social compliance issues. The company will present vivid case studies to illustrate this point. As part of the discussion, Timberland will share the benefits it has gained through Lean Manufacturing. The second day of the Responsible Sourcing Summit will showcase a three-hour interactive workshop, focusing on forced and indentured labor as well as child labor. Experts from the Office of International Affairs and US Immigrations and Customs Enforcementh will be on hand to discuss new enforcement policies and to offer tips on how companies can stay in compliance. In addition to its strategic content, the STR RS 5th Annual Responsible Sourcing Summit is a networking opportunity for supply chain experts who want to exchange ideas with thought-leaders in the field of CSR and who are committed to their professional growth. To view the full program and list of speakers, please click on STR RS 5th Annual Responsible Sourcing Summit-GPS: Navigating the New CSR Landscape. Act Now-Availability is quickly running out. About STR Responsible Sourcing STR Responsible Sourcing is a leading provider of corporate responsibility consulting services which include monitoring, training, research and program development. STR RS is a business unit within Specialized Technology Resources' Quality Assurance Division, which was founded in 1944. STR RS has offices in over 30 countries across five continents, and the reach to provide audit services in over 140 countries around the world. Visit STR at http://www.STRQuality.com.

MS&L Promotes Scott Beaudoin to North American Director

2010-02-08 12:11:20 -0500

MS&L, one of the world's leading communications firms, has promoted Scott Beaudoin to North American Director of the agency's Cause Marketing & Corporate Social Responsibility specialty effective immediately. Beaudoin, an award-winning industry veteran, will be responsible for driving continued thought leadership and growth in the Cause & CSR space across all practices and offices in the U.S. and Canada, expanding the dramatic success of an offering he has spearheaded for 18 months. "In 2010, we expect that more companies will look to drive the bottom line through Cause and CSR," said Jim Tsokanos, President of the Americas. "Scott and his team understand the need to capture the ROI of values-driven strategies. The MS&L offering will help enterprises translate their core competencies and values into credible and measurable market opportunities, differentiation and consumer loyalty for years to come." Unveiled in February 2009, MS&L's Social Activism Marketing (SAM) approach blends the power of corporate social responsibility and cause marketing with the penetration of digital tools to spawn social movements for profit and purpose. SAM is brought to life through a proprietary process that pinpoints the four stages of social movement that corporations can use to facilitate purpose-driven campaigns, drive influence and maximize reach. "Companies and institutions across the country responded immediately when MS&L launched Social Activism Marketing a year ago," Beaudoin said. "Their response underscores MS&L's belief that purpose and profit need not be mutually exclusive, and that sincere and pro-active values-driven engagement can fuel great outcomes, socially and financially." Beaudoin joined MS&L in July 2008 as senior vice president of consumer marketing and director of cause marketing and has since developed cause marketing and CSR programs for brand name clients in key industries, including Procter & Gamble, Pfizer and Sodexo. His previous work has included the Yoplait Save Lids to Save Lives campaign, General Mills Box Tops for Education initiative, the ConAgra Foods Feeding Children Better program, and the CVS All Kids Can program. MS&L's Cause-CSR specialty is headquartered in the Boston office and integrated with existing, award-winning capabilities in every region of MS&L's North American network. About MS&L MS&L is part of MS&LGroup a leading global communications firm, offering the best in public relations, direct marketing, social media, real-time communications, corporate and events communication. Operating in wholly owned and affiliate offices in more than 90 countries spanning the Americas, EMEA and Asia Pac, our diverse team of experts listens, researches and creates provocative campaigns that build powerful brands, engage consumers, protect reputations and rally employees. MS&LGroup provides many of the world's largest companies and most recognized brands with best-in-class communication strategies to help them reach their business and communication goals. MS&LGroup is part of Publicis Groupe (Euronext Paris: FR0000130577), the world's fourth largest communications group. With activities spanning 104 countries and 43,000 professionals. Publicis Groupe a complete range of advertising services through three global advertising networks, Leo Burnett, Publicis, Saatchi & Saatchi, and two multi-hub networks, Fallon and 49%-owned Bartle Bogle Hegarty. Media consultancy and buying is offered through two worldwide networks, Starcom MediaVest Group and ZenithOptimedia; and interactive and digital marketing led by Digitas and Razorfish. Publicis Groupe recently launched VivaKi to leverage the combined scale of the autonomous operations of Digitas, Razorfish, Starcom MediaVest Group, Denuo and ZenithOptimedia to develop new services, tools, and next generation digital platforms. Web site: www.publicisgroupe.com

Columbia Sportswear Steps Up to Help Haiti Earthquake Victims

2010-02-08 11:14:34 -0500

Columbia Sportswear Company (NASDAQ: COLM) provided an update on its ongoing efforts to assist Haiti relief efforts. Immediately following news of the devastating earthquake, the company began working closely with international relief agencies, including Mercy Corps, World Vision and Soles4Souls, for guidance on specific relief needs. To date Columbia Sportswear has:

-- arranged for the shipment of shoes, clothing and accessories with an estimated retail value of more than $3 million to be distributed by on-site relief workers, -- facilitated the sale of over 1,000 Columbia and Mountain Hardwear tents to Shelterbox, providing temporary shelter for affected families, -- donated more than $120,000 in cash to a variety of accredited relief organizations through a combination of employee donations and company matching. In addition, in collaboration with Soles4Souls, Columbia will be collecting used footwear at each Columbia Muddy Buddy event being held in 18 cities across the U.S. beginning in March, to help Soles4Souls reach its goal of collecting 1 million pairs of shoes for Haiti in 2010. Tim Boyle, Columbia's president and chief executive officer, commented, "Columbia Sportswear and its employees have a long history of responding with compassion and generosity to help survivors of natural disasters. The devastating earthquake in Haiti provided another opportunity for us to demonstrate those values. We continue to look for additional ways to respond to the changing needs of the Haitian people and applaud our employees and the relief workers on the ground for their continued individual efforts." About Columbia Sportswear Founded in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, Columbia Sportswear Company is a global leader in the design, sourcing, marketing and distribution of active outdoor apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment. As one of the largest outerwear manufacturers in the world and a leading seller of skiwear in the United States, the company has developed an international reputation for innovation, quality, performance, functionality and value. The company manages a portfolio of outdoor brands including Columbia Sportswear, Mountain Hardwear, Sorel, Montrail and Pacific Trail. To learn more about Columbia, please visit the company's website at www.columbia.com.

The Walmart Foundation and CARE Launch Women's Empowerment Initiative in Bangladesh Factories

2010-02-08 10:20:28 -0500

The Walmart Foundation and CARE launched today a women's empowerment program that will provide 2,500 female factory workers in Bangladesh's apparel sector with long-term, sustainable means of improving their standard of living and working environments through workplace skills and literacy training. The program will be implemented in Dhaka, which has the largest number of garment factories and factory workers in Bangladesh. This initiative is also expected to indirectly benefit the families, and communities, of these workers, and will likely positively impact an additional 12,500 to 15,000 people. "Just last week I was in Bangladesh and had the opportunity to see firsthand the contributions of these hardworking female factory workers in their communities," said Doug McMillon, president and CEO, Walmart International. "At Walmart, we aim to not only improve the lives of our customers and associates, but also to improve the lives of women that work to provide many of the products we carry in our stores around the world. I am confident this program will make a difference in the lives of female factory workers and their families in Bangladesh." Selected factories will host learning centers, providing education and awareness sessions focused on specific issues of concern to female workers in and around their workplace, including maternal and child health, nutrition, and hygiene and sanitation practices. Through the learning centers, these women will also receive education to improve their reading, writing and math skills. Technical training will focus on providing the workers with design, sewing, equipment handling and other relevant on-the-job technical skills. Factories in Bangladesh employ mostly women – between 20 and 29 years old – who have left their rural villages in search of better livelihoods. "CARE's 55-year history in Bangladesh has enabled us to establish trusted, long-term relationships in the communities in which we serve," said Helene Gayle, president and CEO of CARE. "With Walmart's generous commitment, CARE can expand upon our empowerment efforts, imparting essential skills, and improved opportunities, to thousands of young women working in factories in Bangladesh." Knowledge and best practices from the Walmart and CARE women's empowerment factory initiative will be shared with the Bangladesh Garments Manufacturing and Export Association (BGMEA) to help improve the quality of life and social conditions in other factories as well. Last May, the Walmart Foundation announced a $1 million grant to CARE for projects focusing on empowering impoverished young women in Peru, Bangladesh and India through education, job-training and entrepreneurial support programs. This project marks the second of a series of initiatives to elevate women from poverty worldwide. Globally, women make up 70 percent of the one billion people living on less than a dollar a day, work two-thirds of the working hours, produce half of the world's food, yet earn only 10 percent of the world's income and own less than 1 percent of the world's property. About CARE CARE fights root causes of poverty in the world's poorest communities. CARE places special focus on working alongside poor women because, equipped with the proper resources, women have the power to help whole families and entire communities escape poverty. In over 65 countries, women are at the heart of CARE's community-based efforts to improve education, prevent the spread of HIV, increase access to water and sanitation, expand economic opportunity and protect natural resources. Each year, CARE helps tens of millions of people around the world effect real, positive changes in their lives. About Philanthropy at Walmart Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are proud to support the charitable causes that are important to customers and associates in their own neighborhoods. Through its philanthropic programs and partnerships, the Walmart Foundation funds initiatives focused on creating opportunities in education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness. From February 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009, Walmart – and its domestic and international foundations – gave more than $423 million in cash and in-kind gifts globally. To learn more, visit www.walmartfoundation.org.

CSRwire and Zoosa are proud to announce Their New Partnership

2010-02-08 09:57:37 -0500

CSRwire, the Corporate Social Responsibility Newswire has joined forces with Zoosa to communicate the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility and sustainability in today's business environment. As part of their partnership agreement, Zoosa will now be helping to increase the exposure of Corporate Social Responsibility news by running CSRwire's Press Releases, Events, and Reports on their website, now viewable here, and CSRwire has offered their services to increase support for connecting socially responsible professionals and organizations. Zoosa is a social enterprise business with a mission to highlight socially responsible individuals and organizations. In doing so, Zoosa makes it possible to quickly show which individuals, schools and organizations are having a social impact on a personal level. Zoosa introduces the first-ever personal social impact reports. Similar to annual CSR (corporate social responsibility) reports, Zoosa is now challenging individuals to issue reports on their personal social impact actions in an effort to inspire others to make a difference. By issuing a social impact report and linking their profile to their schools and organizations, students can show their school spirit, employees can promote their corporate culture, individuals can meet others and organizations can measure their members' impact. Working with their extensive Member community, CSRwire promotes the growth of Corporate Social Responsibility and sustainability through solutions-based information and positive examples of corporate practices. CSRwire distributes news related to Diversity, Philanthropy, Socially Responsible Investing (SRI), Environment, Human Rights, Workplace Issues, Business Ethics, Community Development and Corporate Governance to Journalists, Analysts, Investors, Activists, Academics, Public Relations, Advertising and Investor Relations Professionals in over 200 Countries throughout the world. Through their partnership CSRwire and Zoosa hope to bring greater awareness to issues pertaining to Corporate Social responsibility, influence consumer behavior, and create a greater platform for companies to convey their commitment to CSR. About CSRwire CSRwire is the leading source of corporate social responsibility and sustainability press releases, reports and information. CSRwire members are companies and NGOs, agencies and organizations interested in communicating their corporate citizenship, sustainability, and socially responsible initiatives to a global audience through CSRwire's syndication network and Daily News Alerts. CSRwire content covers issues of Diversity, Philanthropy, Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) Environment, Human Rights, Workplace Issues, Business Ethics, Community Development, Corporate Governance and much more. About Zoosa Zoosa (www.zoosa.org) is a social enterprise business with a mission to highlight socially responsible individuals and organizations. In doing so, Zoosa makes it possible to quickly show which individuals, schools and organizations are having a social impact on a personal level. With over 2,000 social impact and nonprofit jobs and several thousand news stories, Zoosa has created a single location to quickly find all social enterprise information, opportunities, people & organizations.

Greenscape Partners with the Carbon War Room in Support of Green Capital Global Challenge

2010-02-08 09:37:08 -0500

Greenscape Capital Group Inc. (TSX VENTURE: GRN) - Announcement Highlights:

-- Carbon War Room founded by Sir Richard Branson and the Former President of Costa Rica, the Honourable Jose Maria Figueres -- Greenscape to meet with world's most innovative mayors and industry experts -- Launch to take place February 15th-17th, during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games Greenscape Capital Group Inc. ("Greenscape") is pleased to announce that it is sponsoring the Carbon War Room in its partnership with Mayor Gregor Robertson, to launch the Green Capital Global Challenge, a one-year program focused on utilizing market-based solutions to reduce carbon emissions in the built environment. Greenscape will join Sir Richard Branson and the Honourable Jose Maria Figueres, founders of the Carbon War Room, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, and a host of innovative entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and financiers from around the world, in launching the event during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games. The Carbon War Room is a 'think and do tank' that harnesses the entrepreneurial spirit of business leaders and others focused on climate change to identify and disseminate locally effective models that mobilize capital to civic energy efficiency initiatives. The Carbon War Room's Green Capital Global Challenge has specifically identified energy efficiency in the built environment as a target for new, market-oriented business models that can overcome the barriers to achieving significant reductions in carbon emissions. Vancouver ranks among the greenest cities in the world, Vancouverites have the smallest carbon footprint of any urban environment in North America, and Mayor Robertson has implemented a pioneering civic sustainability plan, Vancouver Green Capital. Vancouver is a distinguished city that will serve as a strong platform from which to launch an accelerated, well-capitalized green innovation initiative around the world. The "battle strategy" is to partner with the best existing efforts in this field, to connect innovators, financiers, and decision makers, and to accelerate capital flows to the energy efficiency market. Greenscape Capital Group will work with the Carbon War Room, the City of Vancouver, and other participating members to facilitate access to capital, catalyze new partnerships, and achieve a market-based energy efficiency model for the world to follow. Capitalizing on the convening power of the Carbon War Room, unparalleled international attention to be garnered by the Olympic Games, and a forum of collected entrepreneurial visionaries, the Green Capital Global Challenge will establish a city based energy efficiency action plan, enshrined in Vancouver, as an inspiration to other global cities. Bryan Slusarchuk, Greenscape Capital CEO, has been invited to address the Carbon War Room and the attendees of the Green Capital Global Challenge. Greenscape recognizes the many challenges that civic leaders face as they endeavor to make cities more environmentally sustainable and will help support the Carbon War Room's goal of overcoming such challenges. This is the start of a global initiative that will benefit the climate and all participants in the meeting. Michael Hofer, Canadian Certified Environmental Practitioner and Greenscape Director, states: "The Carbon War Room has done an excellent job of focusing attention on the need for significant energy efficiency measures. Moreover, with the Green Capital Global Challenge, they have signaled to the world that market oriented solutions, led by driven and innovative leaders and entrepreneurs, are required to generate significant results. By bringing several such innovators together in Vancouver, combined with international thought leaders and decisions makers, they have made it clear that now is the time to start implementing effective solutions. Greenscape is very pleased to be involved in this initiative. Our corporate vision and mandate align perfectly with the Green Capital Global Challenge objectives. Greenscape has established itself as an industry leader in the energy efficiency field and, through our unique retrofit model, precisely embodies the type of business innovation required to achieve such goals." About Vancouver Green Capital "Vancouver Green Capital" is the City of Vancouver's business brand for economic development and leverages the business potential of the 2010 Games. The brand is at the heart of the creation of a robust and long-term economic strategy that will guide the City's pursuit of international economic opportunities. www.vancouver.ca/greencapital. About the Carbon War Room The Carbon War Room harnesses the power of entrepreneurs to implement market-driven solutions to climate change. The Carbon War Room's unique approach focuses on bringing together successful entrepreneurs, business leaders, policy experts, researchers, and thought leaders to focus on market-driven solutions. www.carbonwarroom.com. About Greenscape Capital Group Greenscape Capital Group increases environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and profitability of companies and their operations. Greenscape Capital owns 100% of Green.Switch Capital, a Canadian based company focused on dramatically increasing the profitability of commercial facilities through enhanced energy efficiency and environmental best practices. Green.Switch provides full-service energy retrofitting for commercial clients. The Green.Switch energy retrofit process begins with the assessment of client issues and infrastructure, through to project design, capitalizing improvements, attaining government incentive grants when applicable, contracting, installation and monitoring. When marked opportunities arise, Greenscape also invests in other companies that operate in the environmental space, providing strategic capital and business advisory services to assist companies in achieving their environmental and corporate goals. www.greenscapecapital.com. http://www.greenswitchcapital.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Bryan Slusarchuk, CEO and Director Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements, which reflect the expectations of management regarding future revenues and contracts. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur, when they will occur, or if they do occur, what benefits the company will obtain from them. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

ERA Carbon Offsets Ltd. to Close $5,520,000 Financing With Forest Carbon Group AG

2010-02-08 09:36:09 -0500

ERA Carbon Offsets Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: ESR) (the "Company" or "ERA"), is pleased to announce that the private placement previously announced, October 14th 2009, will close on or about February 9th 2010. The private placement consists of 7,360,000 common shares at a price of CAD$0.75 per share for gross proceeds of CAD$5,520,000. The sole subscriber is Forest Carbon Group AG ("FCG") an affiliate of HEAG Sudhessische Energie AG ("HSE"), a German energy and infrastructure company based in Darmstadt. Post-financing, FCG will own an aggregate of 7,360,000 shares which constitute 29.9% of the issued capital of the Company. No finder's fee was paid in connection with the private placement. On the closing of the private placement (the "Closing") the Company will grant FCG: 1) the pre-emptive right to purchase up to 30% (subject to adjustment) of any equity financings that the Company may from time to time undertake (the "Right"); and 2) the right of first refusal (the "Right of First Refusal") to provide such project financing as may be requested by the Company for forest carbon offset projects (the "ERA Projects") and to purchase carbon offsets created from the ERA Projects. If the Company and FCG are unable to conclude an agreement with respect to the financing and/or the purchase of the carbon offsets, the Company may offer the terms which were last offered to FCG or other terms not less favourable to the Company to any third party for a period of 60 days. The Right of First Refusal will not apply with respect to ERA Projects developed by the Company exclusively for other clients, or developed in participation with other clients or developers up to the Closing or existing obligations and contracts of the Company with offset resellers and project developers. Both the Right and the Right of First Refusal will expire at the earlier of five (5) years from the Closing and the date FCG no longer owns at least 20% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company on a non-diluted basis. ERA has submitted all documentation regarding the financing to the TSX Venture Exchange and is awaiting approval. In addition, on the Closing the Company will increase the number of its board members from five (5) to six (6) members and appoint FCG's nominee, Mr. Holger Mayer as the sixth board member. Mr. Mayer is the director of Finance, Human Resources and Sales for HSE. Its subsidiary, ENTEGA, is one of Germany's largest suppliers of green power. As a director of FCG, Mr. Mayer is responsible for the financial and legal aspects of project development. Mr. Mayer studied law in Tubingen and Stuttgart, as well as Business Administration at the Berufsakademie Stuttgart. Robert Falls, CEO of ERA commented, "We cannot overstate the importance of this Private Placement, nor the strength of the relationship it underscores. Built on a foundation of seasoned professionals, ERA has pioneered the forest carbon offset space and developed into a significant international player in the industry, having capacity in the full range of project sourcing, development, implementation. ERA has become a leader in offset sales and brokering to both large companies and smaller organizations that have made a commitment to support climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration and protection. HSE AG is a well established company and its affiliate FCG will not only benefit from this heritage but use its marketing capacity to engage large European corporations in forest carbon offset programming. Having Mr. Mayer join ERA's board will add a high level of business acumen to ERA's organization." Holger Mayer, director of FCG and CFO of HSE, declared: "The foundation of Forest Carbon Group and the strategic stake it has taken in ERA is another consequent step for HSE to move from being part of the problem of the climate crisis to be part of the solution. Afforestation of natural forests and forest protection are indispensable to solving the climate crisis, maintaining biodiversity and guaranteeing the sustainable existence of humanity. Together, FCG and ERA will be able to offer access to large scale, high quality forest projects that fit the demands of companies in need of compensating emissions that are still unavoidable for either technical or economical reasons." About The Forest Carbon Group. The Forest Carbon Group offers companies tailor made solutions for climate neutral products and processes. For this purpose it helps companies to reduce their own emissions voluntarily or to compensate for them with forest protection. The Forest Carbon Group identifies, develops, finances and monitors forestry projects for the voluntary carbon market and supplies its clients with forest carbon offsets. It invests exclusively in reforestation projects and schemes to protect still existing natural forests. The forest carbon offsets that are achieved as a result are securitised and issued in the form of so called VERs (Verified or Voluntary Emission Reductions) and CERs (Certified Emissions Reductions). The Forest Carbon Group was founded in 2009 by the German utility company HSE and the consultancy firm BCC - Business Communications Consulting. The company's headquarters are in Frankfurt am Main. Additional information on The Forest Carbon Group can be found at www.forestcarbongroup.ag or by contacting contact@forestcarbongroup.de About ERA Carbon Offsets Ltd. ERA is a Canadian based pioneer in forest-based carbon offset programs and project development. Through its subsidiary, ERA Ecosystem Restoration Associates Inc., ERA produces significant, measurable carbon sequestration benefits that are validated and verified to international standards and sold to purchasers interested in offsetting their greenhouse gas footprints as a means of mitigating the effects of climate change. ERA is producing offsets from the company's "Community Ecosystem Restoration Program" (CERP) in the Lower Fraser Valley, near Vancouver, British Columbia. ERA is also developing projects in Africa, South America and the United States. ERA has generated ISO validated and verified Voluntary Emission Reductions (VERs) from the CERP project; to supply clients and offset users that include: HSE-Entega, Rolling Stone Magazine, Shell Canada Ltd., Air Canada, the Motion Pictures Producers Industry Association, and the Globe Foundation. Additional information on ERA can be found on the corporate website www.eracarbonoffsets.com or by contacting investor@eracarbonoffsets.com On behalf of the Board of Directors of ERA CARBON OFFSETS LTD. Robert Falls, Chief Executive Officer FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This document includes forward-looking statements as well as historical information. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the continued advancement of the company's general business development, research development and the company's development of forest-based carbon offsets. When used in this document, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intent", "may", "project", "plan", "should" and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements. Although ERA Carbon Offsets Ltd. believes that their expectations reflected in these forward looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from these forward-looking statements include fluctuations in the marketplace for the sale of carbon credits, the inability to implement corporate strategies, the ability to obtain financing and other risks disclosed in our filings made with Canadian Securities Regulators. NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

MasterCard Foundation and Equity Group Foundation Launch Comprehensive Scholarship Program for Financially Disadvantaged Kenyan Students

2010-02-08 08:57:58 -0500

The MasterCard Foundation and the Equity Group Foundation (EGF) today launched a program that will provide $4.6 million in comprehensive educational support to 676 secondary students in Kenya over the next five years. Reeta Roy, President and CEO of The MasterCard Foundation, and EGF Chairman Dr. James Mwangi announced the partnership at an event in Nairobi presided by Prime Minister Raila Odinga. "All young people deserve an opportunity to reach their full potential," said Roy. "The MasterCard Foundation is proud to partner with EGF to enable students in Kenya to complete secondary school. EGF has the national scale, reach and financial systems to ensure this program benefits young people." The program will provide comprehensive scholarships to 332 academically gifted yet financially disadvantaged students, enabling them to complete secondary school in Kenya. The program will also provide leadership development, career guidance and mentoring to an additional 344 secondary school students. EGF will identify an equal number of male and female primary school students to participate in the program. "The collaboration with The MasterCard Foundation affirms our commitment to transforming the socioeconomic status of talented young people and developing the next generation of leaders in Kenya," said Mwangi. "Our hope is that other partners will look to this program as a model for transforming the lives of disadvantaged children and join us." In Kenya, just 64 percent of primary students enter secondary school and even fewer graduate. The low enrollment and completion rates are attributed to the cost of education; lack of access to schools, particularly in rural areas; and the need for poor youth to work to contribute to the household income. A recent World Bank report confirmed that financing mechanisms such as scholarships are key to retaining youth, especially girls, in secondary school. EGF, through Equity Bank, will oversee the distribution of funds using its extensive branch network. The Bank has supported education initiatives in Kenya throughout its 25-year history, including a Pre-University Program that enables top-performing secondary school graduates to enter university. To measure the impact of this program, both foundations will track students' progress over the next five years. About The MasterCard Foundation The MasterCard Foundation believes that every person has the potential to transform their lives, and to improve the lives of their families and their communities. By increasing access to microfinance and youth education for people in developing countries, the foundation is enabling them to realize their potential and lift themselves out of poverty. The foundation's vision is to make the economy work for everyone. It is an independent, private foundation based in Toronto, Canada, with assets totaling $3 billion. It was established through the generosity of MasterCard Worldwide at the time of the company's initial public offering in 2006. For more information, see http://www.themastercardfoundation.org/. About the Equity Group Foundation Equity Group Foundation (EGF) was established to create a clear financial and operational separation for social programs while harnessing Equity Bank's capabilities, infrastructure and reach. Its goal is to transform the socioeconomic status of people in Africa through several program areas: education and leadership development of young people; support of women and youth entrepreneurs; health promotion; agriculture development; and spurring innovation at the bottom of the pyramid. EGF's strategy is to achieve impact by initiating new programs as well as managing and scaling the Bank's current social programs. http://www.equitybank.co.ke

Haitian Telecom Operator Voila, Trilogy International Partners and The Jack Brewer Foundation to Host NFL Players on 'One Team 4 Haiti' Service Trip to Haiti

2010-02-05 16:38:26 -0500

Haitian telecom operator Voila and its parent company Trilogy International Partners are partnering with The Jack Brewer Foundation (JBF Worldwide) and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) to bring NFL athletes to Haiti for a service trip to continue to raise awareness and relief funds. The trip will highlight the NFL's commitment to continue helping Haiti recover from the devastation of the recent earthquake. This partnership, along with the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, has created the "One Team 4 Haiti" campaign. A national public service announcement featuring professional NFL athletes and announcing the campaign will air during the Super Bowl. "We are excited to host the NFL players in Haiti. Their influence and public personas can do a lot to keep the public connected and the awareness going," said Brad Horwitz, CEO, Trilogy International Partners. "We will work with them to organize projects in which they can make a lasting contribution to Haiti's reconstruction." The service trip will bring continued awareness about the ongoing need to rebuild and support this impoverished country. The NFL players committed to this relief effort include William Joseph, Jonathan Vilma, (both Haitian-born), Ryan Grant, Bryant McKinnie, Danny Clark, Barrett Green, Kevin Little, Jack Brewer, Sidney Rice, Abe Elam, Ronald Fields, Bobby Engram, Abdul Hodge, Jeremiah Finley, Charles Fisher, EJ Henderson, Champ Bailey, Corey Chavous, Anthony Becht, Robert Griffith, Fred Robbins, Darrelle Revis, Matt Spaeth and more. "I am heartened by the outpouring of support for the people of Haiti after this terrible earthquake," said Jack Brewer, Founder of JBF Worldwide. "Every corner of America has contributed resources and attention to the needs of this affected country. The NFL and NFLPA are looking to create a sustained engagement in Haiti's recovery through this partnership." The trip will promote continued focus on, and support of, Haiti. The NFL players will have an opportunity to create written and video diaries of their experiences, so their fans can join them on the trip. Fans will be able to read first-hand the thoughts and messages of their favorite players and connect to Haiti through their eyes. Voila and Trilogy are committed to the recovery of Haiti. After celebrating 10 years in Haiti, Trilogy and Voila received the prestigious Award for Corporate Excellence from Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in December 2009, honoring Trilogy's and Voila's commitment to social improvement through youth and education programs and through significant contributions to the economic development of Haiti. Voila Voila is a leading mobile telecommunications operator in Haiti, providing high-quality, affordable wireless service. Since its inception, over US$200 million has been invested in Haiti. Voila employs over 500 local staff and provides indirect employment to more than 15,000 Haitians through a micro-enterprise venture whereby local entrepreneurs sell time on a customized cell phone. Trilogy International Partners, LLC Trilogy International Partners, LLC (Trilogy) invests in wireless telecommunication operations in international markets that exhibit strong opportunities for significant growth. Trilogy and its businesses hold licenses to provide wireless services to over 31 million people. For more information, see Trilogy's website: www.trilogy-international.com. The Jack Brewer Foundation The Jack Brewer Foundation (JBF Worldwide) - is a non-profit organization founded by former NFL safety Jack Brewer, committed to the empowerment of women and children living within the world's most impoverished and underdeveloped communities. Through JBF Worldwide's numerous initiatives, the foundation has enabled food security, access to educational resources and foster local enterprise. JBF Worldwide will be offering nutritional products and various aids to help provide food security for the Western Hemisphere's poorest nation. JBF Worldwide currently offers food security to more than 15,000 impoverished individuals through its self sustaining microfinance program. JBF Worldwide had an extraordinarily successful past year including ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on February 27, 2009 and Founder Jack Brewer being honored with a Congressional Certificate of Appreciation by US Congressman Charles B. Rangel for foundations work in Africa. For more information about the Foundation, please visit www.thejackbrewerfoundation.org. For more information on JBF Worldwide, please contact Carolyn Bass by email at cbass@jbfworldwide.org. The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) The NFL Players Association is the exclusive collective bargaining agent for all players employed by clubs of the National Football League. Founded in 1956, the NFLPA works to ensure that the rights and interests of NFL players are protected. In addition, the NFLPA strives to be a valuable resource and to maximize player opportunities on and off the field through membership programs and community activities. For further information, visit www.NFLPLAYERS.com. Clinton Bush Haiti Fund The earthquake that rocked the coast of Haiti killed or injured a devastating number of people. Even more were left in need of aid, making this is one of the major humanitarian emergencies in the history of the Americas. In the aftermath of the disaster, President Barack Obama asked President Bill Clinton and President George W. Bush to raise funds for immediate, high-impact relief and long-term recovery efforts to help those who are most in need of assistance. In response, the two Presidents established the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund (CBHF) to respond to unmet needs in the country, foster economic opportunity, improve the quality of life over the long term for those affected, and assist the people of Haiti as they rebuild their lives and "build back better." The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund will do this by working with and supporting the efforts of reputable 501(c) (3) nongovernmental and nonprofit organizations. Presidents Clinton and Bush oversee the CBHF through their respective nonprofit organizations, the William J. Clinton Foundation and Communities Foundation of Texas. One hundred percent of donations made to the Clinton Foundation and the Communities Foundation of Texas go directly to relief efforts. For more information, visit www.clintonbushhaitifund.org. You can contribute in any of three ways: Web: visit our secure online donation page Mobile Giving: Text the word "QUAKE" to 20222 to donate $10 to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund charged to your cell phone bill. Mail: The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund c/o William J. Clinton Foundation Donations Department 610 President Clinton Avenue Little Rock, AR 72201 OR The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund

Last Month to Apply for $130K in Grants Through Redwood Creek(R) Wines 'Greater Outdoors Project'

2010-02-05 16:20:51 -0500

Redwood Creek wines is putting its money where the grass grows and committing $130,000 in the third annual Greater Outdoors Project. Nine nonprofit finalists will be selected from across the country, eight of which will be awarded $10,000 each. The title grant of $50,000 will go to one winner, based on a national, public vote. Redwood Creek wines is calling on outdoor organizations nationwide to apply for this year's grant to fund a specific outdoor project unique to that group. Interested organizations must apply by February 28, 2010 at www.RedwoodCreekWine.com. Redwood Creek, known for crafting quality wines that offer a flavorful taste of the outdoors, established the Greater Outdoors Project in 2008 to recognize and support nonprofit organizations that share its commitment to preserve, protect and provide access to America's great outdoors. "The Sierra Nevada mountain snowmelt nurtures our vineyards, making them rich and fertile grounds for grape production," says Cal Dennison, Redwood Creek winemaker and outdoor enthusiast. "Because nature directly influences our craft and the quality of our wines, we should do our part to give back to the outdoors." A panel of judges made up of active members of the outdoor community, including Dennison, will review applications from hiking, water conservation and energy preservation groups, to name a few. Redwood Creek wines encourages applicants to be creative in their project submissions. Whether clearing pollution from Lake Erie, collecting litter from the trails of the Redwood Forests or sprucing up the appearance of the Everglades, any project dedicated to improving the outdoors is deemed appropriate. From April 1 through August 31, 2010, outdoor enthusiasts will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite nonprofit at www.RedwoodCreekWine.com. The winning organization will be announced in September 2010. Last year's Greater Outdoors Project grant was presented to Friends of New Orleans City Park, after a nationwide vote of more than 38,000. The $50,000 grant is currently being used to reestablish 19 acres of ecosystems in the Couturie Forest, a popular woodland nestled at the center of the park's 1,300 acres, that was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. To enter this year's Greater Outdoors Project, participants must complete the online application at www.RedwoodCreekWine.com, which includes a statement of purpose, detailed budget, timeline and photographs of the proposed project. All project work must be completed by December 2011. Only one application per organization will be considered and all submissions must be dedicated to a specific project. The grant applicant must be 21 years of age or older and a legal U.S. citizen. Only members or representatives of registered 501(c )(3) nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply. For complete rules and additional information, visit www.RedwoodCreekWine.com. About Redwood Creek: Redwood Creek wines embody the adventurous spirit of the great outdoors. Redwood Creek Winemaker Cal Dennison crafted a portfolio of eight food-friendly wines that consistently deliver outstanding quality at an attractive price. Redwood Creek wines are available at retailers nationwide at a suggested retail price ranging from $6.99 to $9.99. About the Greater Outdoors Project: No purchase necessary. Grants Application period ends February 28, 2010 and is void in TN, UT and PR and where prohibited by law. Must be a legal resident of one of the fifty (50) United States or the District of Columbia and at least 21 years of age or older at the time of entry. See Official Terms and Conditions at www.RedwoodCreekWine.com. California, French and Italian Table Wine, ©2010 Frei Bros. Vineyards, Modesto, CA. All rights reserved

Express Scripts Supports Red Cross Haiti Relief Efforts

2010-02-05 13:15:41 -0500

Express Scripts, Inc. (Nasdaq: ESRX), one of the largest pharmacy benefit management companies in North America, today announced that employees have donated more then $97,000 to the Red Cross for its emergency relief and recovery efforts to help those affected by the earthquake in Haiti. With a dollar for dollar match by the Express Scripts Foundation, the total donation was more then $194,000. "Express Scripts and its employees are deeply saddened by the devastation in Haiti following the January 12 earthquake," said George Paz, chairman and CEO of Express Scripts. "Our employees have rallied to support the efforts of the Red Cross as they and so many other relief organizations provide critical assistance to those who need it most. I am delighted that the Express Scripts Foundation is doubling that support." The Express Scripts Foundation is a private foundation established by Express Scripts, Inc. in 2002. Express Scripts and the Foundation are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities in need. "We are touched and grateful for the generosity of Express Scripts employees and Foundation," said Cindy Erickson, CEO, American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter. "The relief operation in Haiti is already the largest single-country personnel deployment in global Red Cross history. Donations such as these help us to deploy much-needed personnel, send relief supplies and provide financial resources." About Express Scripts, Inc. Express Scripts, Inc., one of the largest pharmacy benefit management companies in North America, is leading the way toward creating better health and value for patients through Consumerology(SM), the advanced application of the behavioral sciences to healthcare. This approach is helping millions of members realize greater healthcare outcomes and lowering cost by assisting in influencing their behavior. Headquartered in St. Louis, Express Scripts provides integrated PBM services including network-pharmacy claims processing, home delivery services, specialty benefit management, benefit-design consultation, drug-utilization review, formulary management, and medical and drug data analysis services. The company also distributes a full range of biopharmaceutical products and provides extensive cost-management and patient-care services. More information can be found at www.express-scripts.com and www.consumerology.org.

Novo Nordisk reports strong financial, social and environmental performance for 2009

2010-02-05 12:14:26 -0500

Despite continuing challenges in the global economic environment, 2009 was a successful year for Novo Nordisk with solid sales in all business areas, continued improvement in the gross margin and progress in the clinical development pipeline for key projects in both diabetes care and biopharmaceuticals. The company's accomplishments during the year, including strong performance against social and environmental targets, are reported in its sixth annual integrated report. During 2009, Novo Nordisk:

Increased sales by 11% (in local currencies) and by 12% in Danish kroner to DKK 51,078 million compared to 2008.
Increased reported operating profit by 21% to DKK 14,933 million compared to 2008.
Maintained global leadership in diabetes care with 51% of the total insulin market.
Reduced CO₂ emissions by 32% and water consumption by 20%.
Increased its workforce by 8% to 29,329 employees at year end to support sales growth and a strong pipeline of future treatments.
Expanded support for healthcare capacity building in developing countries by donating 82 million DKK to the World Diabetes Foundation and the Novo Nordisk Haemophilia Foundation.
Diagnosed and enrolled more than 400 children with type 1 diabetes in the Changing Diabetes® in Children programme, which builds sustainable partnerships to offer diabetes care, including free insulin.

Novo Nordisk manages its business using the Triple Bottom Line principle to ensure that decision-making balances profitability with long-term societal interests. The integrated Annual Report seeks to meet the information needs of shareholders, financial analysts and other corporate stakeholders by exploring the interaction between financial and non-financial objectives. In the absence of global standards for inclusive reporting, the report was prepared in respect of international standards for mandatory and voluntary reporting:

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
The accountability standard, the AA1000 (2008) Framework, which includes AA1000APS(2008) and AA1000AS(2008).
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G3 Sustainability Reporting Guidelines.
UN Global Compact, Communication on Progress.
US Sarbanes–Oxley Act requirements for financial reporting. Novo Nordisk has also embarked on a process of structuring the control environment for non-financial data with the aspiration to have full alignment with the control environment for financial data.

The report is available online, along with more background, context and data supplementing the report PDF, at http://annualreport2009.novonordisk.com and for more information on TBL and sustainability please visit www.novonordisk.com/sustainability. About Novo Nordisk Novo Nordisk is a healthcare company and a world leader in diabetes care. In addition, Novo Nordisk has a leading position within areas such as haemostasis management, growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy. Novo Nordisk manufactures and markets pharmaceutical products and services that make a significant difference to patients, the medical profession and society. With headquarters in Denmark, Novo Nordisk employs over 29,300 employees in 76 countries, and markets its products in 179 countries. Novo Nordisk's B shares are listed on the stock exchanges in Copenhagen and London. Its ADRs are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol 'NVO'. For more information, visit novonordisk.com.

Novo Nordisk Annual Report 2009

2010-02-05 11:50:37 -0500

STR Responsible Sourcing Launches Labor Law Library

2010-02-05 11:45:47 -0500

STR Responsible Sourcing (STR RS), a leading provider of ethical sourcing consulting services for Fortune 500 companies, today announced that it has launched the most comprehensive and up-to-date online reference tool for labor laws and employment standards. STR RS's new Labor & Employment Standards Library (LESLi) provides sourcing, legal, and human resources professionals and academics with full-text English translation of labor laws for over 140 countries. LESLi's contents are both searchable and exportable, and the product features a suite of analysis tools that allow users to make country-to-country comparisons of different labor laws, including wages, hours, hiring and termination, forced labor, and collective bargaining among others. Until now, it was cumbersome to gather actual full-text laws since different countries - not to mention the states and provinces within them - offer different access levels to their laws. There was also the hurdle of effectively translating these laws to English. "With the increasing global reach of supply chains, the need for having a consistent single source for this information became obvious. We talked to many clients and industry partners about their challenges, and then spent two years making LESLi a reality," said Greg Gardner, General Manager of STR RS. "LESLi will make it infinitely easier for companies, researchers and others to obtain good quality English translations of labor laws that relate to their global businesses." In addition to addressing the need for a one-stop shop for global labor laws, Gardner also cites two additional elements that make LESLi unique within the industry: (1) STR RS is a trusted name in the corporate responsibility industry so subscribers can feel assured that the information contained in the database is reputable and legitimate; and (2) subscribers can be confident that the laws in the database are up to date. "This database was initially developed for our field staff so they could quickly reference the laws that were applicable to the assessments they were doing," explains Rachelle Jackson, Director of Research and Development at STR RS. "We can't do a good job of assessing workplace conditions without access to up-to-date labor laws so we do regular reviews of the laws in the database to make sure they are all current." Some of the applications for LESLi include: setting global human resources policies that are consistent with local laws; identifying gaps between sourcing countries' labor conditions and international labor standards; understanding legal obligations for employing people in international locales; and comparing the labor requirements from country to country. Visit http://www.STRQuality.com/LESLi for an online product demonstration and additional information about LESLi. Demonstrations of LESLi will also be available during STR RS's 5th Annual Responsible Sourcing Summit on February 25, 2010. About STR Responsible Sourcing STR Responsible Sourcing is a leading provider of corporate responsibility consulting services which include monitoring, training, research and program development. STR RS is a business unit within Specialized Technology Resources’ Quality Assurance Division, which was founded in 1944. STR RS has offices in over 30 countries across five continents, and the reach to provide audit services in over 140 countries around the world. Visit STR at http://www.STRQuality.com.

Rachel Roy Announces Collaboration with Fairwinds Trading in an Effort to Create Jobs for Women in Africa

2010-02-05 09:49:15 -0500

Designer Rachel Roy and Fairwinds Trading have partnered on a unique product collaboration in an effort to create jobs for women in Africa. As part of this collaboration, items that are hand-crafted in Africa by female-owned businesses will be integrated into select seasonal Rachel Rachel Roy collections beginning in Spring 2010. Rachel Rachel Roy is a division of Jones Apparel Group (NYSE: JNY). To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/rachelroy/41987/ The launch collection features a clutch that was crafted in Tanzania using indigenous fabrics and textiles. The collection also features a bracelet and earrings handmade in Rwanda. The bracelet is fashioned from shredded woven paper and both the bracelet and earrings feature beads constructed from a unique paper layering process. These one-of-a-kind works of art were created by women using patterns and techniques unique to their community of origin. Founder and artistic director Rachel Roy said, "My goal as a working woman and mother is to support women's independence through employment. For the women who benefit from the Fairwinds Trading partnership, the opportunity to work is an important source of self-respect and financial freedom. I support this important organization and its ongoing collaboration with Macy's made it a perfect fit for the Rachel Rachel Roy brand. The vast network of African artisans that Fairwinds has brought together is immensely talented and I am excited to be able to incorporate their artwork into my collection." Willa Shallit, founder of Fairwinds Trading said, "The RRR clutch represents the story of a chain of women supporting one another: A woman in rural Congo spends her days weaving Kuba cloth, she then holds out her hand to a woman in Tanzania who takes the woven cloth and adds other beautiful materials to it. That Tanzanian woman hands it to Rachel Roy who takes the Kuba cloth and makes it into a brilliantly designed clutch, which a woman then purchases in the United States. Four separate women's lives are interconnected through this one accessory. It is a direct and powerful chain that works to fight poverty, through beauty." Flotea Masawe, owner of Marvelous Batik, who produced the clutch said, "We used Kuba cloth from weavers in Congo and crafted the clutch in Tanzania before sending it to the U.S. for Rachel's final touches. This clutch really has created a chain of women in three different countries who linked together to help alleviate poverty by providing employment and economic opportunities for African women." The Rachel Rachel Roy Fairwinds collaboration will be available at rachelroy.com and select Macy's stores and macys.com. This collection compliments Macy's existing partnership with Fairwinds including the Rwanda Path To Peace collection which features exquisite baskets handcrafted by Rwandan women. The collaboration with Fairwinds Trading is part of a series of limited edition capsule collections that merge fashion with culture, art, music, photography and philanthropy to bring a unique element to the Rachel Rachel Roy brand. The Rachel Rachel Roy collection features affordable contemporary sportswear, footwear, handbags and jewelry. The collection is available exclusively at select Macy's stores and online at macys.com/rachelroy and rachelroy.com. You can become a fan of Rachel Roy on Facebook or follow her on Twitter. About Jones Apparel Group Jones Apparel Group, Inc. (www.jonesapparel.com) is a leading designer, marketer and wholesaler of branded apparel, footwear and accessories. The Company also markets directly to consumers through its chain of specialty retail and value-based stores and through its e-commerce web sites. The Company's nationally recognized brands include Jones New York, Nine West, Anne Klein, Gloria Vanderbilt, Kasper, Bandolino, Easy Spirit, Evan-Picone, l.e.i., Energie, Enzo Angiolini, Joan & David, Mootsies Tootsies, Sam & Libby, Napier, Judith Jack, Albert Nipon and Le Suit. The Company also markets costume jewelry under the Givenchy brand licensed from Givenchy Corporation, women's footwear under the Dockers® and Dockers® Women brands and infants', toddlers' and boys' footwear (excluding girls' footwear) under the Dockers® and Dockers® Premium brands, licensed from Levi Strauss & Co., apparel and accessories under the Rachel Roy brand licensed from Rachel Roy IP Company, LLC, and Jessica Simpson jeanswear licensed from VCJS, LLC. Each brand is differentiated by its own distinctive styling, pricing strategy, distribution channel and target consumer. The Company contracts for the manufacture of its products through a worldwide network of quality manufacturers. The Company has capitalized on its nationally known brand names by entering into various licenses for several of its trademarks, including Jones New York, Anne Klein New York, Nine West, Gloria Vanderbilt, l.e.i. and Evan-Picone, with select manufacturers of women's and men's products which the Company does not manufacture. For more than 30 years, the Company has built a reputation for excellence in product quality and value, and in operational execution. Forward Looking Statements Certain statements contained herein are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements regarding the Company's expected financial position, business and financing plans are forward-looking statements. The words "believes," "expects," "plans," "intends," "anticipates" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements also include representations of the Company's expectations or beliefs concerning future events that involve risks and uncertainties, including:

those associated with the effect of national, regional and international economic conditions;
lowered levels of consumer spending resulting from a general economic downturn or lower levels of consumer confidence;
the tightening of the credit markets and our ability to obtain credit on satisfactory terms;
given the uncertain economic environment, the possible unwillingness of committed lenders to meet their obligations to lend to borrowers, in general;
the performance of the Company's products within the prevailing retail environment;
customer acceptance of both new designs and newly-introduced product lines;
the Company's reliance on a few department store groups for large portions of the Company's business;
the Company's ability to identify acquisition candidates and, in a competitive environment for such acquisitions, acquire such businesses on reasonable financial and other terms;
the integration of the organizations and operations of any acquired businesses into the Company's existing organization and operations;
consolidation of the Company's retail customers;
financial difficulties encountered by the Company's customers;
the effects of vigorous competition in the markets in which the Company operates;
the Company's ability to attract and retain qualified executives and other key personnel;
the Company's reliance on independent foreign manufacturers;
changes in the costs of raw materials, labor, advertising and transportation;
the general inability to obtain higher wholesale prices for the Company's products that the Company has experienced for many years;
the uncertainties of sourcing associated with an environment in which general quota has expired on apparel products but litigation and political activity seeking to re-impose quotas have been initiated;
the Company's ability to successfully implement new operational and financial computer systems; and
the Company's ability to secure and protect trademarks and other intellectual property rights.

A further description of these risks and uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations can be found in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, including, but not limited to, the Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Disclosure and Item 1A-Risk Factors therein, and in the Company's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such expectations may prove to be incorrect. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. About Rachel Roy Rachel Roy (www.rachelroy.com) approaches the design of her collections with a feminine and modern point of view. Her goal is to create clothing for women who embrace fashion and dress with an effortless elegance, confidence, and edge. The RACHEL ROY NEW YORK collection is available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and top specialty stores worldwide. The RACHEL RACHEL ROY collection, the diffusion companion to the designer collection, launched in August 2009 and embodies uptown glamour with downtown edge in sportswear, footwear, handbags and jewelry. The collection is available exclusively at Macy's and macys.com. In 2007, Roy was inducted into the CFDA as a new member where she stands alongside other esteemed fashion industry individuals. About Fairwinds Trading Fairwinds Trading, Inc. (www.fairwindstrading.com) is a U.S.-based, for-profit company that uses business as a strategy for economic empowerment of people, especially women, in developing nations. Our focus on women as a preferred partner is based in part on our history, in part on our leadership as a woman-owned firm, and in part on evidence that raising the standard of living for women has the greatest positive multiplier effect within family, communities and cultures. Fairwinds' mission is to connect cultures through business, art and understanding.

Ingram Micro to Donate $100,000 to Haiti Relief Efforts

2010-02-05 09:19:27 -0500

In response to the tragedy in Haiti, Ingram Micro Inc. (NYSE: IM), the world's largest technology distributor is donating $100,000 to assist with Haiti humanitarian relief efforts. When the earthquake struck Haiti a little over three weeks ago, Ingram Micro associates quickly mobilized, collecting donations from offices worldwide that the company matched. "At Ingram Micro, it's the people who make the difference. They care about their local communities and the world around them," said Greg Spierkel, chief executive officer, Ingram Micro Inc. "Immediately after the news of the earthquake reached us, associates began organizing local fund-raising efforts from our corporate headquarters in the United States to our operating units throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Our thoughts are with all who have been impacted by this terrible tragedy." Employees within Ingram Micro's 35 country-based operations held fund-raising efforts through the end of January. The company's associates around the world demonstrated innovative ways to participate. In Belgium, for example, associates organized a 24-hour sales marathon, with 2 Euros earmarked for Haiti relief for every item purchased. Associates in the company's Latin America region headquarters in Miami, Fla. sponsored a bake sale, while offices in California, New York and Sydney, Australia, held "Casual for a Cause" days in which employees donated money to dress casually at work. Country donations were given to local Red Cross or Red Crescent organizations and corporate matching funds will be sent through the International Red Cross for immediate and long-term Haiti relief. About Ingram Micro Inc. As a vital link in the technology value chain, Ingram Micro creates sales and profitability opportunities for vendors and resellers through unique marketing programs, outsourced logistics services, technical support, financial services, and product aggregation and distribution. The company serves more than 150 countries and is the only global broad-based IT distributor with operations in Asia. Visit www.ingrammicro.com. © 2010 Ingram Micro Inc. All rights reserved. Ingram Micro and the registered Ingram Micro logo are trademarks used under license by Ingram Micro Inc.

Caterpillar World Headquarters Awarded LEED-EB(R) Gold from United States Green Building Council

2010-02-05 09:14:04 -0500

The Caterpillar Administration Building, which serves as the company's world headquarters, has been awarded LEED-EB® O+M (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance) Gold certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Achieving the certification makes the Caterpillar facility, located in downtown Peoria, the first building in Illinois outside of the Chicago metropolitan area to become LEED-EB certified and the second building in the Caterpillar family to earn the recognition. The Cat Financial Center in Nashville, Tennessee, received LEED-EB certification in April of 2009. LEED is a third-party certification program and a recognized benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. LEED-Gold certification is the second highest rating obtainable in the system. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas: sustainable sites, water savings, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environmental quality. "Every day members of Team Caterpillar look for opportunities to apply their expertise, technology and common sense to address environmental issues," said Greg Folley, vice president of Caterpillar's Human Services Division. "Successfully identifying and managing our environmental footprint reduces environmental impacts where we all live and work, makes good business sense and is simply the right thing to do for our community, employees, customers and shareholders." Specific highlights include:

Decreased energy consumption by 40 percent through improved control systems, operating methods, and lighting automation.
Implemented a new irrigation system for all landscaped areas resulting in a 50-percent water use reduction.
Implemented a green cleaning program with new environmentally-friendly chemicals and developed an improved pest management program utilizing the least toxic methods.
Leveraged Caterpillar's purchasing and recycling practices to reduce the environmental impact of materials used and conducted waste stream audits to drive continuous improvement efforts.

More information on the LEED green building certification system is available at www.usgbc.org/LEED. About Caterpillar: For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2009 sales and revenues of $32.396 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at http://www.cat.com.

Henry Schein and American Dental Association Open NASDAQ Exchange to Mark ADA's Eighth Annual 'Give Kids A Smile Day'

2010-02-05 08:53:42 -0500

Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC), the largest distributor of health care products and services to office-based dental, medical and veterinary practitioners, joined the American Dental Association (ADA) today to open the NASDAQ Exchange for trading in celebration of the ADA's eighth annual "Give Kids A Smile Day". Representatives from all segments of the dental community and co-sponsors DEXIS® and Colgate-Palmolive Company were also present to help kick off "Give Kids A Smile Day" at the NASDAQ MarketSite Tower. "Give Kids A Smile Day" annually provides free dental services and educational programs for more than 320,000 underserved children at approximately 1,700 locations across the United States. Today almost 50,000 dental team volunteers, including 13,000 dentists, will participate in events including in-school brushing demonstrations, community screening and treatment programs, and free private dental care. Henry Schein Dental, the U.S. Dental division of Henry Schein, is again serving as the exclusive professional product sponsor of "Give Kids A Smile Day". With the commitment and support of 40 supplier partners, Henry Schein will provide thousands of oral health care screening and prevention kits to the program containing supplies to serve more than 150,000 children. Since the program's inception, Henry Schein and its supplier partners have donated more than $10 million in value to the "Give Kids A Smile" program. "'Give Kids A Smile' was the first significant national program supported through Henry Schein Cares, our global social responsibility program, and it remains a flagship initiative in which we take great pride and remain firmly committed," said Stanley M. Bergman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Henry Schein. "'Give Kids A Smile' is a sterling example of the effectiveness strategic public-private partnerships hold in addressing complex health care issues. By contributing our own core competencies, supplementing these with the contributions of our generous supplier partners, and working in collaboration with all segments of the dental community, we are able to use our collective resources to increase awareness of this important issue and to make a tangible difference in the lives of underserved children in our country." Each year, ADA's "Give Kids A Smile Day" highlights the ongoing challenges that underserved children face in accessing dental care, and helps build support among policy makers for public and private solutions that will provide regular access to oral health care. According to the ADA, tooth decay is the single most chronic childhood disease-five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever. Recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data show that tooth decay is on the rise for preschoolers, and it is estimated that 80 percent of tooth decay is found in only 25 percent of the children. The ADA recommends that children see a dentist no later than their first birthday, yet almost half (49 percent) have never seen a dentist before kindergarten, and by ages six to eight more than half (53.2 percent) have tooth decay. Children five to seven years of age are estimated to lose more than seven million school hours annually because of dental problems. "The success of the "Give Kids A Smile" program over the past eight years reflects not only the commitment of our membership to address the important issue of access to oral health care for underserved children, but also the invaluable support of our corporate sponsors, whose participation has increased the scope and effectiveness of the initiative," said Dr. Ron Tankersley, President, American Dental Association. "It is a great pleasure to work hand-in-hand with Henry Schein, DEXIS, Colgate-Palmolive, and our many other dental industry supporters to help enhance the level of care for our country's children in need." In addition to "Give Kids A Smile Day", the ADA has expanded the program into a year-round effort to increase access to dental care for underserved children. The ADA's "Give Kids A Smile" National Advisory Board, which is chaired by Steve Kess, Vice President of Global Professional Relations for Henry Schein, focuses on expanding this initiative in three primary areas-program enhancement; fundraising; and hosting an annual Promising Practices Symposium where similar programs can share best practices. Henry Schein's 2010 Participating Supplier Partners This year the following manufacturers are supporting the ADA's "Give Kids A Smile" efforts through product donations:


3M ESPE Dental	Acteon	Ansell Healthcare Products
Axis Dental Corporation	Biotrol International	Coltene/Whaledent, Inc.
Crosstex International	DASH	Dentsply Caulk
Dentsply Pharmaceutical	Dentsply Professional	DMG America
Dukal Corporation	Dux Dental	GC America, Inc.
Harry J. Bosworth Company	Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co. Inc.	J & J Instruments
Johnson & Johnson	Kimberly-Clark	Kuraray America, Inc.
L& R Manufacturing Inc	Medicom	Microflex Corporation
Miltex	Premier Dental Products Co.	Richmond Dental
SDS Kerr	Sempermed USA	Septodont
Southern Dental	SS White Burs	Sultan Healthcare
Sunstar Americas	TIDI Products	TotalCare
Tuttnauer	Waterpik Technologies	Young Dental
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About the ADA Celebrating its 150th anniversary, the not-for-profit ADA is the nation's largest dental association, representing more than 157,000 dentist members. The premier source of oral health information, the ADA has advocated for the public's health and promoted the art and science of dentistry since 1859. The ADA's state-of-the-art research facilities develop and test dental products and materials that have advanced the practice of dentistry and made the patient experience more positive. The ADA Seal of Acceptance long has been a valuable and respected guide to consumer dental care products. The monthly Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) is the best-read scientific journal in dentistry. For more information about the ADA, visit the Association's Web site at www.ada.org. About DEXIS DEXIS is an industry leader in developing high quality digital imaging solutions for the dental community. In 1997, DEXIS introduced digital radiography on laptop computers - making it the first truly portable and affordable digital X-ray system. In 2001, DEXIS became the first intra-oral digital radiography system to be accepted by the American Dental Association into the highly prestigious ADA Seal Program. Today, DEXIS is the most highly awarded intra-oral digital X-ray system with numerous awards from dental researchers and well-respected dental publications. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.dexis.com. About Colgate-Palmolive Company Colgate-Palmolive is a leading global consumer products company, tightly focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition. Colgate sells its products in over 200 countries and territories around the world under such internationally recognized brand names as Colgate, Palmolive, Mennen, Softsoap, Irish Spring, Protex, Sorriso, Kolynos, Elmex, Tom's of Maine, Ajax, Axion, Soupline, and Suavitel, as well as Hill's Science Diet and Hill's Prescription Diet. For more information about Colgate's global business, visit the company's Web site at www.colgate.com. About Henry Schein Henry Schein, a Fortune 500® company and a member of the NASDAQ 100® Index, is recognized for its excellent customer service and highly competitive prices. The Company's four business groups - Dental, Medical, International and Technology - serve more than 590,000 customers worldwide, including dental practitioners and laboratories, physician practices and animal health clinics, as well as government and other institutions. The Company operates through a centralized and automated distribution network, which provides customers in more than 200 countries with a comprehensive selection of more than 90,000 national and Henry Schein private-brand products in stock, as well as more than 100,000 additional products available as special-order items. Henry Schein also provides exclusive, innovative technology offerings for dental, medical and veterinary professionals, including value-added practice management software and electronic health record solutions. Headquartered in Melville, N.Y., Henry Schein employs more than 13,500 people and has operations or affiliates in 23 countries. The Company's net sales reached a record $6.4 billion in 2008. For more information, visit the Henry Schein Web site at www.henryschein.com.

Haiti Telecom Operator Voila Teams With Relief Agencies on Wireless Communications Projects

2010-02-05 08:28:31 -0500

Haiti telecom operator Voila has been busy since the January 12 earthquake providing local and international service to over a million Haitian customers and thousands of incoming relief workers. However, Voila technicians are also assisting a host of agencies - from the US Coast Guard to international NGOs - to set up or restore public safety communications networks and to launch new text services tailored specifically for disaster relief. Working with the Irish Red Cross and the International Federation of the Red Cross Red Crescent (IFRC), Voila is sending text messages with vital health-related information to all of its customers over a 10 day period. Each message will appear in Creole and will be distributed as a public service. The Irish Red Cross, IFRC, and Voila plan to support this service with voice recordings about vaccination programs, sanitation tips, and other advice that users can access with a few keystrokes on their phones. As Voila customers pass the messages to others by word-of-mouth, the information campaign should reach 3 to 4 million Haitians. Robin Padberg, Voila's CEO, said, "We are pleased to partner with the Irish Red Cross and IFRC in providing a critical service that stands to protect a significant number of people from the inevitable spread of disease following this tragedy." In collaboration with the US embassy, Voila is also participating in Mission 4636, which enables a mobile phone user to use a short code - 4636 - to text a free request for medical help or food to appropriate relief agencies. Organized by Samasource and Crowdflower, the project uses thousands of volunteers to translate the incoming messages to English and to redirect them to the Red Cross, Ushahidi, and a variety of NGOs, along with data indicating the location of each sender. The agencies can then direct aid where and when it is needed. Besides using its own wireless network to connect Haitians who need assistance with those who can provide it, Voila is helping Haitian and US government public safety agencies deploy their own communications systems, so that they can fulfill their public safety, rescue, and relief responsibilities. On the island of La Gonave, sitting in the gulf off of Port-au-Prince, police and fire radio services were knocked out by the earthquake. Voila technical experts traveled to the island, and installed new electrical equipment, a fuel tank and a generator, enabling Haitian police and fire authorities to respond to local needs. Voila will continue to monitor the ongoing emergency communications needs of the police and fire departments and supply additional fuel to the Gonave communications facility. The US Coast Guard needed an immediate means of inter-agency communications to manage vital missions: processing emergency requests for help, medevacing injured Haitians to hospitals throughout Haiti, and coordinating the repair of Haiti's ports. Voila technicians worked with the US Coast Guard to place radio antennae on a strategically-located Voila tower to provide the necessary communications links for the Coast Guard's network. Haitian government personnel in Port-au-Prince need a dedicated private communications network that will enable them to work as a cohesive group. In order to accelerate the launch of this system, Voila has offered space on its towers, as well as access to electricity and backup generators, for the transmitters and receivers that the government needs to install. "We have given them power and authorized them to mount their equipment on our towers," said Edgar Geidans, Trilogy International Partners' Vice President of Engineering and Operations, who flew to Port-au-Prince the morning after the earthquake to help Voila's engineers manage their network. "This provides the government with a back up for communications in addition to the operating networks in Haiti." Voila, and its parent company, Trilogy International Partners, are committed to the recovery of Haiti. After celebrating 10 years in Haiti in October 2009, Trilogy and Voila were awarded the US State Department's prestigious Award for Corporate Excellence by Secretary Hillary Clinton, in recognition of Trilogy's and Voila's commitment to social improvement through youth and education programs and significant contributions to the economic development of Haiti. About Voila and Trilogy International Partners Voila is a leading mobile telecommunications operator in Haiti, providing high-quality, affordable wireless service. Since its inception 10 years ago, it has invested over US$200 million in Haiti. Voila employs over 500 local staff and provides indirect employment to more than 15,000 Haitians through a micro-enterprise venture whereby local entrepreneurs sell time on a customized cell phone. Voila is a subsidiary of Trilogy International Partners LLC, a privately-held company based in Bellevue, WA. Trilogy also owns wireless communications systems in the Dominican Republic, Bolivia, and New Zealand. For more information on Trilogy, please see its website: www.trilogy-international.com.

LBG: Webinar to Learn how to better manage and measure your corporate contributions

2010-02-02 10:48:59 -0500

Today's corporate community involvement professional are under increasing pressure to show the value of their corporate contributions. LBG, the international standard for corporate community investment, helps companies better manage and measure their community investments so they can capture the full picture of their contributions and demonstrate the impact to the community and the business. As a global network, LBG also creates a forum for corporate community involvement professionals to share best practices, discuss common challenges and identify solutions. The US working group of LBG, will host a complimentary webinar to discuss key trends in corporate community involvement and showcase how LBG helps companies better manage and measure their corporate contributions. Webinar participants will have an opportunity to hear from speakers with deep community involvement experience. Registration is free. To register go to: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/151198832

Empire State Feed-In Tariff: A Policy to make New York a Clean Energy Capital What it means for investors and how you can help make it happen.

2010-01-26 09:45:16 -0500

CLEAN ENERGY WEEK: NYC Event media sponsor: CSRwire DETAILS: Empire State Feed-In Tariff: A Policy to make New York a Clean Energy Capital What it means for investors and how you can help make it happen. Thursday, February 4, 2010 The Cooper Union Great Hall, 41 Cooper Square, NYC (map) . . . PROGRAM . . .Keynote address: 6:30–7:00 Featuring the Sponsors of Current State Feed-In Tariff Legislation New York State Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi New York State Senator Antoine Thompson Panel discussion: 7:00–8:30 Panelists John Burges, Managing Director, Knight Capital Markets (New York, NY) Deborah Doncaster, Executive Director, Community Power Fund (Ontario, CA) Nils Mellquist, Senior Research Analyst, Deutsche Bank Climate Change Advisors (New York, NY) Wilson Rickerson, President, Rickerson Energy Strategies (Boston, MA) Networking reception: 8:30–9:30. . . About . . . The world’s most advanced and profitable clean energy markets didn’t come to lead by accident. Rather, strategic commitments to long-term financial incentive policies that are designed to drive investment and rapidly scale viable, clean technologies directly account for their dominance. The feed-in tariff is the policy approach that has proven to be the most effective in stimulating clean power adoption, generating jobs and driving down costs. Widely adopted in Europe and now emerging in force across North America, feed-in tariffs enable clean power generators of various sizes, deploying a variety of technologies, to sell their power over the long–term at rates that guarantee attractive and predictable returns. In this event members of the New York State Legislature will join a prestigious panel of policy experts, financiers and clean energy investors from throughout North America to illustrate the case for a local Empire State Feed-In Tariff. The policy’s implications for investment and finance will form the core of the discussion, and recently introduced feed-in tariff legislation will be analyzed in reference to case studies from around the globe. . . . RSVP . . . Cost: $30 for members, $40 for non-members Reserve your spot through secure payment at PayPal below OR RSVP and pay at the door: wyldon1@gmail.com Download the flyer. . . . Panel Bios . . . John Burges is Managing Director at Knight Capital Markets, the largest securities trading institution in North America. He previously worked at Deutsche Bank and Merrill Lynch as a Director in their energy investment banking practice. He was Chairman of a private equity backed independent power company with 450 MW of gas fired power generation. He was co-head of a private equity investment company based in the Middle East that invested across the energy spectrum including in the solar sector. He has founded various renewable energy advocacy groups. John has an MBA from Columbia Business School and a BA (Hons) from Bristol University, England. Deborah Doncaster is currently the Executive Director of the Community Power Fund and has held this position for 1 year since the founding of the organization in March 2007. Before the Community Power Fund, Deborah was the founding Executive Director of the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA) which was founded in 1999. Prior to OSEA, Deborah was a Project Manager at the Toronto Renewable Energy Co-operative who built Canada's first community-based, co-operatively owned wind turbine on the Toronto Waterfront. Deborah has recently assumed a new role as Campaign Director of the Green Energy Act Campaign for Ontario. Deborah holds Master's degrees in Law from Carleton University and an Environmental Planning degree from York University. Deborah lives in Toronto with her husband Ben and four year old son Devon. Nils Mellquist is a Vice President at DeAM and Senior Research Analyst on the DBCCA investment research team, based in New York. Mr. Mellquist leads many of the strategic and research efforts for the team in the energy sector. He has substantial domain expertise as an investor and analyst assessing the economics, finance and industry fundamentals of climate change sectors. Mr. Mellquist joined DeAm in 2009 with over 16 years Wall Street experience. From 2004-2008, Mr. Mellquist was a Senior Equity Analyst at AllianceBernstein, where he covered the utility and coal sectors for a $30 billion analyst-driven investment fund. Prior to transitioning to a coverage analyst role at the firm, Mr. Mellquist conducted global thematic research on the investment implications of climate change in the firm’s Research on Strategic Change unit and was the lead author and analyst on a comprehensive 125 page study: “Abating Climate Change: What Will be Done and the Consequences for Investors.” Previously, Mr. Mellquist was a Director and Investment Strategist in the U.S. equity research department at Citigroup and a member of its Investment Policy Committee. Earlier in his career, he was an emerging markets strategist covering Latin American and Asian equities for Salomon Smith Barney’s Private Client Division. Mr. Mellquist also worked at J&W Seligman. Mr. Mellquist has shared his research insights with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including the White House Council of Economic Advisors, the National Association of Regulated Utility Commissioners (NARUC), the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST). Mr. Mellquist graduated from Oberlin College with a Bachelor of Arts in History, and is a FINRA registered supervisory analyst and principal. Wilson Rickerson is Executive Vice President at Meister Consultants Group (MCG) and is responsible for the firm's international climate and energy practice. Mr. Rickerson is an expert in renewable energy policy design, and has conducted feed-in tariff analyses for a broad range of organizations, including Deutsche Bank, SEMI, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the California Energy Commission, and the Hawaiian Electric Company. Prior ot his work with MCG, he served as Policy Advisor to the Center for Sustainable Energy at Bronx Community College, where he coordinated CUNY's Million Solar Roofs Initaitive. He hold a Masters in Energy and Environmental Policy from the University of Delaware and an undergraduate degree in International Relations from the College of William & Mary. The New York Solar Energy Society (NYSES) promotes solar and other renewables through public outreach and education. It is a source of sound technical knowledge and provies a forum to address critical state, regional and national issues relating to energy. . . . Payments . . . Members $30 Non-Members $40

Clean Energy Week

2010-01-25 17:23:58 -0500

Over 100 national organizations call for rapid implementation of clean energy policy and legislation http://www.cleanenergyweek.org/ Clean Energy Week Press Conference: February 1, 9:30 am National Press Club Washington DC Feed-in Tariff (FIT) Forum: February 4, 6:30 pm Cooper Union New York City Complete list of events: http://www.cleanenergyweek.org/schedule.php Clean Energy Week, February 1-5, highlights: February 1: Clean Energy Week Press Conference - Presented by ACORE, Alliance to Save Energy, and the Clean Economy Network. National Press Club, Holeman Room, 9:30am February 1-5: NASEO State Energy Policy and Technology Outlook Conference February 2-3: Business Advocacy Day for Jobs, Climate & New Energy Leadership - Clean Economy Network and Ceres' Business for Innovative Climate & Energy Policy. More Information February 3-5: RETECH 2010 Conference & Exhibition, Washington DC Convention Center February 4: Finance Education Day by the U.S. Partnership for Renewable Energy Finance (US PREF) February 4: Clean Energy Breakfast Roundtable - with Special Hill Guest Speaker. 8am (Clean Technology & Sustainable Industries Organization, Clean Economy Network and K&L Gates). Please contact CTSI or community@ct-si.org for an invite. Free with Invite February 4: Renewable Energy Interactive Webinar (World Team Now) - 2:30-4pm. For more information and to register. Free Webinar February 4: Buy Clean Energy 2010 Program Launch (Center for Resource Solutions). More information available! - Open Opportunity February 4: A cutting-edge feed-in tariff that has the potential to transform New York State into a leading center for renewable-energy investment and job creation will be discussed in a public forum at the Cooper Union’s Great Hall in NYC at 6:30 p.m. http://www.nyses.org February 5: Opportunities and Challenges for Renewable Energy in Latin America and the Caribbean (Latin American and Caribbean Council on Renewable Energy - LAC-CORE, Washington Convention Center: For more information and to register. Free Event

Water Footprint & Availability Risk Management

2010-01-18 09:10:00 -0500

The first event to focus on practical solutions for assessing and managing water availability risk, within regional contexts (US and global) and specific to either agriculture or industrial operations/mining/manufacturing. The Summit brings together multi-national corporations, with complex international supply chains, to share insights on measuring water use in volume and investigating new and innovative strategies to secure your business in regions of increasing water scarcity.

GoLite Releases Groundbreaking Sustainability Report

2010-01-12 14:21:56 -0500

ReVisioning Value 2010 Conference | The Intersection of Purpose + Profit

2010-01-06 19:45:02 -0500

ReVisioning Value 2010 - A Conference at the Intersection of Purpose and Profit will bring together leaders from the varied fields of impact investing and social innovation to share how new models for both are increasing the flow of capital to the creation of a more just and sustainable world. The one-day conference is followed by a day of hands-on workshops and strategic action roundtables designed to help participants apply the ideas offered at the conference to their own oranizations as well as create real tools and strategies as an outcome. EVENT DETAILS Conference Dy (Learn and Connect) Monday, April 26th 8:30am-5:00pm Conference Sessions 5:00pm-7:00pm Awards and Networking Cocktail Reception The Gearding Theater at the Armory, Pearl District, Portland Workshop and Action Day (Understand and Apply) Tuesday, April 27th Workshops + Strategic Action Roundtables 9:00am-Noon In-Depth Workshops 1:00pm-4:00pm Strategic Action Roundtables (free) Venue Pearl, Pearl District, Portland, Oregon

Corporate Integration of Renewable Energy Conference

2009-12-21 12:54:56 -0500

This renewable energy conference will bring together corporate leadership to discuss and debate the opportunities and incentives of incorporating renewable energy resources and sustainability practices into their organizations, and will not only provide tangible metrics for measuring results, but will also discuss the intangible benefits of such programs. Case studies will highlight real-life success stories of organizations creatively utilizing the resources at hand to generate power, and generate savings. Keynote presentations will deliver inspirational discussions on the development of business cases for investing in renewable resources, and will enable attendees to truly delve into the barriers and challenges of these types of programs. Policy-driven presentations will also be incorporated into the agenda, so that participants have up-to-date details on state-by-state regulations, incentives, and the latest information on cap-and-trade as well as renewable energy credits.

MiaGreen Expo & Conference

2009-12-14 10:57:13 -0500

MIAGREEN 2010 EXPO & CONFERENCE Succeed in Today’s Green Revolution: Don’t Fall Behind! February 25 & 26, 2010 (Thursday & Friday) Miami Beach Convention Center We invite you to participate in the 2nd Edition of the MiaGreen Expo & Conference, the major GREEN professional event in the Americas for Businesses, Executives, Entrepreneurs, Architects, Engineers, Interior Designers, Builders, Contractors, Service Providers, Property Managers, Manufacturers, Suppliers, Government Officials, and Experts. At MiaGreen 2010 you will find…

Major Educational & Credited Programs & Courses
Green Designing & Building Techniques
How to Be Green & Be Profitable
Hot Green Business Opportunities
Green Incentives, Certifications & Benefits
Energy Savings Techniques & Procedures
How to Sell to Key Markets in the World
Latest Green Products & Services in Your Field
New Green Job Opportunities…and more!

Exhibiting companies include US & International Manufacturers, Suppliers, Experts & Providers of Eco-friendly Products & Services within the following main categories:

Building & Construction
Energy
Recycling & Waste Management
Transportation
Water, Air & Land
Family Habitat
Green Products & Services
Green Consulting & Regulations
Trade Consulting & Services
Finance

Program highlights:

2 Featured Opening Sessions
30+ Credited Courses & Educational Sessions by Major National Speakers on:

A - Designing & Building Greener Americas B - How To Be Green and Be Profitable C - Innovative Green Products & Technologies from Around the World D - Green Policies, Certifications & Incentives E - It’s All About Energy F – Water, Air & the Environment G – Managing Waste & Recycling Innovations

Specialized Courses by Associations & Educational Partners.
Exhibit Hall with Thousands of Green Products & Services
Cocktail Reception

To Exhibit and Sponsor, contact 305-412-EXPO (3976). To download the Exhibit & Sponsor Package click here or email your request to mail@MiaGreen.com. Ask for Show Specials! To Register to attend complete information may be found here.. There are opportunities for all budgets. You can register on-line, by fax and by phone now to take advantage of the Advanced Rates. (Up to 25% discount by Dec. 31st). Please note that our website is bilingual at www.MiaGreen.com (English) and www.ConvencionVerdeDeLasAmericas.com (Español) The first MiaGreen Expo & Conference was held on June 11 & 12, 2009.and it was a huge success. Dozens of testimonials and complete list of speakers, sponsors and participants may be found here. MiaGreen has developed now from a regional event to a major nationwide and international green convention. You can not afford to miss the MiaGreen 2010 Expo & Conference on February 25th & 26th…In Miami, Business Hub of the Americas..A Winter Escape in South Florida! If you would like more information please call 305-412-EXPO (3976) or email to mail@MiaGreen.com.

Global Ethics Summit 2010

2009-12-10 14:55:44 -0500

The Global Ethics Summit, February 23-24 at the Grand Hyatt in New York, leverages the collective expertise of Dow Jones and Ethisphere in business, ethics and anti-corruption to provide an unparalleled conference program, featuring an unmatched agenda, editorially driven content and roster of compliance experts. In just two days, you’ll gain the strategies and best practices you need to avoid trouble in today's critical global marketplace. Already signed on to participate in exclusive keynote sessions are:

Brackett Denniston, Senior Vice President & General Counsel, General Electric
Charles L. Harrington, Chairman & CEO, Parsons
Andy Hinton, Chief Compliance Officer & Associate General Counsel, Google
Georg Kell, Executive Director, United Nations Global Compact
Douglas M. Lankler, Senior Vice President & Chief Compliance Officer, Pfizer
Mark Mendelsohn, Deputy Chief, Fraud Section, Criminal Division, U.S. Department of Justice
C. Turney Stevens, Dean, College of Business, Lipscomb University

Agenda topics include:

What 2010 will mean for the evolution & enforcement of compliance regulations
Doing compliance right, even during tough economic times
Determining the appropriate level & practice of transparency
How to best train a diverse workforce
Trends & tips for dealing with regulators & enforcement officials
Avoiding risks when selecting suppliers, partners, distributors/resellers & other third party agents
The opportunities, challenges & obligations of emerging markets

For more details, including an up-to-date agenda, visit www.globalethicssummit.com. CLE Credit Are Available 10-15 CLE credits will be applied for in many states for this live event. Please be sure to check the website as panelists are confirmed to determine if it qualifies for credit in your jurisdiction. CSR Wire members Discount CSR Wire members are eligible to receive a 15% discount on regular conference fees - register online with code "GES10P".

Becoming a Brand of the Future: Making Your Brand Appeal to Consumers’ Consciences

2009-12-04 17:09:01 -0500

Brands live in a world of ever-changing expectations. Differentiating your brand by building and keeping trust and loyalty among consumers is increasingly dependent on social or environmental promises. Brands of the future anticipate, rather than just respond to, what consumers and customer want. Megan DeYoung, Manager US Operations, and Liza Lort-Phillips, Associate Director, from Corporate Citizenship will shed light on the complex, brave new world that brands are navigating. They will draw on real-world examples to illustrate how brands can reach the conscience consumer and will discuss common pitfalls. Through the course of the presentation, they will address several important questions: 1. How do you tap consumers’ consciences with an existing brand? Or should you develop a new brand? 2. How do you make your brand credible? Should you be considering eco-labels and third party certification? 3. How do you get over the fear of being accused of greenwashing? 4. How can you leverage a more ethical brand with your customers? 5. Should your brand be carbon neutral? Is cause-related marketing right for you? What are your other options for addressing social issues? The webinar will also summarize research on UK consumers’ views on ethical products conducted by Corporate Citizenship and Brand Democracy, a strategy and research firm. Who should participate: Brand managers, sales and marketing managers, CSR managers, sustainability managers Date: December 10, 2009 Time: 12:00 pm EST Cost: FREE Visual log-in information: To join the webinar, visit: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/join/499661537. Audio dial-in information: To listen to the webinar, use the following dial-in information: • United States: 1.914.339.0034 • United Kingdom: 44.(0).203.355.7649 • Access Code: 499-661-537 • Audio PIN: Shown after joining the meeting • Meeting ID: 499-661-537 About Corporate Citizenship Corporate Citizenship is a management consulting company that offers clients around the world unrivalled breadth and depth of experience in corporate responsibility. Since 1997, we have advised leading, multi-national corporations on how to enhance and align their citizenship and traditional business activities to create strategic business value. We work with multinational clients like Abbott Laboratories, Unilever, Cadbury, and Pearson. For more information contact Megan DeYoung at megan.deyoung@corporate-citizenship.com.

Play Matters: A Study of Best Practices to Inform Local Policy and Process in Support of Children's Play

2009-11-16 11:38:09 -0500

2009 Corporate Citizenship Awards Dinner

2009-11-12 10:34:58 -0500

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center invites you to a celebration in our Nation's Capital. The 2009 Corporate Citizenship Awards Dinner December 1, 2009 U.S. Chamber of Commerce Washington, D.C. Reception Begins at 6:00 p.m. Awards Dinner Begins at 7:00 p.m. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center's Corporate Citizenship Awards showcase business, trade associations, and chambers of commerce that have demonstrated ethical leadership and corporate stewardship, have made a positive difference in their communities, and have contributed to the advancement of important economic and social goals. Four awards will be presented at the Awards dinner: The U.S. Community Service Award Finalists include ARAMARK, Health Care Services Corporation, Office Depot Foundation, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, and UPS The International Community Service Award Finalists include Abbott, General Electric, Goldman Sachs, Intel Corporation, and Procter & Gamble The Partnership Award Finalists include Chevron Corporation / Discovery Channel Global Education Partnership, CVS Caremark Corporation / Boundless Playgrounds, Inc., The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. / Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Ford Motor Company / National Latino Children's Institute, Nationwide Insurance / American Red Cross The Corporate Stewardship Award Finalists include Best Buy Co., Inc., ITT Corporation, Oracle Corporation, The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., and Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. To learn more about the finalists, visit http://www.uschamber.com/bclc/awards. To register for the 2009 Corporate Citizenship Awards Dinner, visit http://www.uschamber.com/bclc/awards/dinner.htm For more information call BCLC at 202-463-3133 or email BCLC@uschamber.com. Join us as we honor the highest ideals of corporate citizenship... Additionally, the U.S. Chamber's Business Civic Leadership Center is also hosting a Luncheon Forum on Business & Society Relations at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC on December 1st. To learn more and register, visit: http://www.uschamber.com/bclc/dec1_lunch.htm

Live Positively: Our commitment to making a positive difference in the world.

2009-11-11 10:51:51 -0500

Transurban Sustainability Report 2009

2009-11-09 10:09:34 -0500

Webinar: Chemicals Policy Reform and its Importance for Business

2009-11-06 09:51:36 -0500

On Friday, November 13 at 11 am PST, Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families, the Business NGO Working Group for Safer Chemicals and Sustainable Materials and the American Sustainable Business Council will host a webinar on chemicals policy reform and its importance for business. Click here to register for the Webinar This webinar will provide an opportunity to understand The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and its reform as well as to hear from some leading businesses on why policy reform is important to them. The Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 is broken. The U.S. EPA has only required testing on about 200 of the more than 82,000 chemicals that have been on the market since the law passed in 1976. Federal action is needed. For the first time in decades, we have a real opportunity to fix this problem at its source- and to start to rebuild our economy based on safer chemicals, materials and products that protect future generations from serious health and environmental harm. Downstream users of chemicals are now demanding federal change. It is time to pass a strong bill to reform TSCA-and start putting common-sense limits on toxic chemicals. Click here to register for the Webinar

Leadership Skills For Change Agents

2009-11-01 00:00:24 -0400

Instructor: Bob Willard, author of The Sustainability Advantage and other books. (Toronto) Webinars will be Mondays at 5pm Pacific time (8pm Eastern) Nov 2, 9, 16, 23. This course prepares sustainability professionals at any level in the organizational hierarchy to lead an organizational change to a sustainable enterprise. It connects the dots between timeless leadership practices and how to transform an organization to a sustainability culture. At the end of this course, participants will be able to: 1. Lead the integrate sustainability into their organization, using a seven-step sustainability change process. 2. Build an effective, relevant business case to support their company's transformation to being a sustainable enterprise. 3. By able to apply effective change leadership practices during the sustainability change process, capitalize on change paradoxes, and avoid potential derailers of their initiatives. 4. Help others be more effective sustainability champions. Bob WIllard is a leading expert on the business value of corporate sustainability strategies. He has given hundreds of keynote presentations to corporate, government, university, and NGO audiences on the bottom-line benefits of sustainability strategies. He has authored three books, The Sustainability Advantage, The Next Sustainability Wave, and The Sustainability Champion’s Guidebook, plus created a DVD of his presentation, The Business Case for Sustainability. He worked 34 years with IBM Canada, is on the faculty of the Sustainable Enterprise Academy, and serves on the advisory board of the Natural Step Canada. He has a PhD in sustainability from the University of Toronto. See www.sustainabilityadvantage.com for more information about him and his resources for sustainability champions.

2009 Net Impact Conference

2009-10-27 14:58:38 -0400

The 2009 Net Impact Conference will bring together the players behind the sustainable global enterprise movement, including sustainability and corporate responsibility practitioners, social entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders. What inspires them to challenge the status quo? What obstacles do they face? And what approaches have led them to success in changing the rules of the game? Retreat to beautiful Ithaca, New York, with more than 2,000 professionals, MBAs, and other students to explore what it really takes for individuals and organizations to be changemakers, innovators, and problem solvers. Join us November 13 - 14 in Ithaca, NY at The Johnson School at Cornell University to:

Hear personal perspectives from cutting-edge leaders like Jeffrey Immelt, CEO of GE, and Seth Goldman, President and TeaEO of Honest Tea
Connect with professionals and students with similar interests at intimately-structured networking events
Gather best practices from over 350 speakers prepared to answer your difficult questions

The unparalleled energy of the Net Impact Conference will leave you inspired and equipped to make real change in your social or environmental impact career.

Deloitte/LEAD Canada Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Training

2009-10-22 16:05:39 -0400

Deloitte & Touche LLP and LEAD Canada cordially invite you to join us to learn about the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards for sustainability reporting. GRI standards offer an accurate, comparable, and repeatable way to measure your business’ environmental and social performance. Here’s what the course will cover: Context, drivers, and best sustainability reporting practice Key steps involved in GRI’s reporting process Use of GRI’s materiality and reporting principles Role, prioritization, and engagement of stakeholders Linkages between GRI and Global Compact Application-level assessment and external assurance The course size is limited to 15 participants to maximize learning. Participants will receive their course completion certificates directly from GRI. Discover how a comprehensive sustainability reporting strategy can help not only to increase transparency and accountability, but also to identify areas for improvement and mitigate risk. Who should attend Managers responsible for their organization’s environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. What’s included Registration fees include course handouts, refreshments, and lunches. Information and registration To request further information and/or register for courses, please e-mail mehrdad@prizmasolutions.com. Please indicate selected course, full name, job title, billing address, payment preference, and highlight your eligibility for any discounts. About LEAD LEAD is the first and most experienced GRI-certified training provider in North America. GRI certified LEAD as its Training Partner in Canada and the USA. LEAD’s GRI training initiative has been endorsed by the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (CGA-Canada), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Shareholder Association for Research & Education (SHARE). Deloitte is a Sustaining Partner of LEAD, hosting and contributing to GRI courses.

Opportunity Collaboration

2009-10-17 00:00:24 -0400

On October 17th, the Opportunity Collaboration will bring together leaders from all over the world to create change, leverage resources and create new alliances in the fight against poverty. Registration is still open for those interested in taking action. The Opportunity Collaboration is focused on networking, collaboration, problem solving and partnering to more efficiently address poverty alleviation and economic justice. Delegates are catalytic senior leaders who, by actions and accomplishments have shown pragmatic vision, passionate tenacity, extraordinary thinking and planning, adaptive leadership, non-ideological activism and a strong ethical grounding.

Great River Energy 2008 Social Responsibility Report

2009-10-15 14:18:58 -0400

Sustainability Showcase Award

2009-10-13 18:24:16 -0400

The California Sustainability Alliance is currently accepting nominations for its 2009 Sustainability Showcase Awards. Now in its second year, the Sustainability Showcase Awards recognizes the successful sustainable policies, programs, practices and technologies implemented by leading organizations. This year, the Alliance is seeking sustainability leaders in five sectors to share their successful strategies: Commercial Building Organizations, Multi-Family Housing Organizations, Local Governments,Water Agencies, and Sellers of Other Products or Services. Winners in each category will be honored at the California Sustainability Alliance Showcase Awards Luncheon to be held in February 2010 and will be featured in showcases on the Alliance's website. Of the five winning organizations, the organization that best exemplifies a comprehensive adoption of sustainability policies and practices in all aspects of its business and operations will be announced as the grand prize winner at the awards luncheon and featured in a video documentary highlighting its successes. IT'S NOT TOO LATE!!! Send in your nominations. Nominations will be accepted until midnight, November 20, 2009. Early entry submissions will have the opportunity to have their applications reviewed with information on any amendments and revisions that may need to be made prior to the closing date. Organizations selected for the Alliance's Showcase will be announced on December 1, 2009. To learn more about the Showcase Award or download the application, go to http://www.sustainca.org/showcase/showcase2009

In Good Company CSR Conference

2009-10-07 08:56:59 -0400

Registration for this event runs from October 5 - 27 2009. The event will take place in Toronto on October 27, 2009. Breathing Strategy into Corporate Social Responsibility: The Business Case for Strategic CSR This conference will bring together some of Canada’s most inspiring business and cause leaders in an engaging dialogue focused on sharing how to: Measure the Return on Social Investments (ROSI) Design signature CSR programs that stand out Focus and align community investment programs with business objectives Develop meaningful volunteer programs and stakeholder engagement practices Measure the effectiveness of your environmental and social initiatives Attract and retain great talent and customers through strategic CSR Featured Speakers Include: Martin Connell, Co-Founder of Ace Bakery, past chair of the Canadian Center for Philanthropy Don Green, Co-Founder, ROOTS Andy Macaulay, Co-Founder and CEO, Zig Heather Reisman, Founder and CEO of Indigo Books & Music Gavin Thompson, Director of Corporate Citizenship, Microsoft Canada Bob Willard, Environmental Expert and bestselling author of The Sustainability Advantage This is a not for profit event. Proceeds are shared amongst the non-profits and charities being profiled during the conference. CSRwire subscribers are able to receive an additional 25% off their ticket price by typing “csrwire” into the discount code field on the event registration page. Very limited Seating, get your ticket today!

Doing the Right Things

2009-10-05 15:19:45 -0400

Practical Tools and Methods for Change Agents: The ISIS Agreement

2009-10-01 00:00:24 -0400

Instructor: Alan AtKisson, author of The ISIS Agreement and Believing Cassandra (Stockholm) Webinars will be Mondays at noon Pacific time (9pm Europe), Oct 5, 12, 19, 26

Corporate Responsibility 2008 Report

2009-09-30 09:01:23 -0400

2009 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference: Focus on Emerging Market Development

2009-09-25 13:37:59 -0400

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center 2009 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference is designed to be high impact with rich networking opportunities among and between leading corporate citizens and their nonprofit and government partners engaged in emerging market development. Attend the 2009 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference: Focus on Emerging Market Development if you want to PARTNER with business, government, or non-governmental organizations to tackle new, innovative and creative ideas for private sector involvement in overseas development assistance. In a day-and-a-half high-impact conference, you will also have the opportunity to: - Attend a pre-conference welcome reception at the Embassy of Sweden - Participate in business round tables discussions and teach ins on how to effectively work with governmental and MLO partners - Hear from leaders in the corporate development community and learn best practices across sector - Network with business, government, and NGO leaders who share your interests The Conference will: 1) Highlight the incentives and obstacles affecting private sector involvement in overseas development. 2) Showcase best practices for private sector engagement in emerging markets. 3) Present areas for collaboration through public-private partnerships. * Join us on September 30th for a special pre-conference welcome reception at the spectacular Embassy of Sweden located in the historic Georgetown Waterfront on the Potomac River. Sweden currently holds the presidency of the European Union. View resources from the 2008 Global Corporate Citizenship Conference including photos, videos, participants, speaker biographies, agenda, and more at: http://bclcglobal.uschamber.com

Carbon Capture and Storage 2009

2009-09-22 00:00:23 -0400

The 2009 Carbon Capture and Storage World Summit, set for September 22 – 24, 2009 in Washington DC, will provide the latest in policy and funding information, as well as technology and industry updates. “Program development is underway," said Conference Producer Valerie King. "We're looking forward to providing an environment in which industry leaders can meet, network and discuss the important issues facing policy and funding." Key topics to be discussed include business concepts and technology for the steel, coal and concrete industries. One pre-conference seminar will be held prior to the conference on Tuesday, September 22 and several networking opportunities and interactive panel discussions will also be provided. At a time when clean energy is more prominent than ever, Carbon Capture and Storage 2009 conference is the event to network with key leaders across several industries and receive a comprehensive overview on carbon capture and storage.

Corporate Social Responsibility: Strategies to Create Business and Social Value

2009-09-21 14:37:09 -0400

Facing the challenges of a deepening global recession and limited financial resources, many companies are charting a new course. As business leaders navigate this evolving terrain, they must satisfy the demands of customers, employees, investors, and governments—and develop new strategies that address the economic, social, and environmental impact of their business practices. Corporate Social Responsibility: Strategies to Create Business and Social Value provides the strategic clarity you need to align corporate social responsibility (CSR) with business strategy and manage successfully through the downturn.

EABIS Colloquium 2009 - The role of business in society

2009-09-21 00:00:23 -0400

The EABIS Colloquium is one of the world's largest multi-stakeholder conferences to explore Corporate Responsibility issues in management practice, research and education. The Colloquium attracts each year an audience of 300+ high level executives, researchers, professors, policy-makers and other stakeholders. The 2009 highlights include: - Thought leadership from renowned international figures in business, academia, policy and civil society - Exchange of best practice and case studies promoting new, innovative and socially responsible styles of management - Networking opportunities to meet informally with leading academic researchers and practitioners to gain insights relevant to your business' circumstances - Access to new knowledge, development and learning projects - Gala dinner and international awards ceremony Three days after the last EABIS Colloquium (Cranfield, Sept 2008), Lehman Brothers collapsed, unleashing a financial, economic and – increasingly – socio-political and governance crisis. The financial crisis especially has highlighted deep flaws in past approaches to the governance of the firm and of economic systems. The 2009 Colloquium will therefore focus on: "The Role of Business in Society: Challenges and Issues for Global and Corporate Governance". > How is the role of business in society likely to change? > To what extent can governance mechanisms foster Corporate Responsibility at Global, company and individual levels? These are the central issues which, among others, the EABIS 2009 Colloquium will address in high-level debates: - Social, Political and Economic Perspectives on the Failure of Governance in the Global Economy - The Governance of the Firm and Managing Sustainable Value Creation in Markets & Society - Future Implications for Executive Development and Learning in Business Schools, Companies and Corporate Universities

Ethical Sourcing Forum – North America 2010

2009-09-16 22:03:46 -0400

Visualize. Rethink. Solve! These crucial elements of sustainability decision-making form the basis of the next Ethical Sourcing Forum in New York on March 18-19th, 2010. Join Intertek Sustainability Solutions as we host the ninth annual ESF-North America The Ethical Sourcing Forum is a unique industry event that brings together members of the global sustainability community in order to address emerging sustainability and ethical supply chain challenges. ESF North America 2010 is where you will find applied innovation and the latest solutions-development processes that yield social and environmental progress while advancing core business objectives. Business the world over is changing as players learn to visualize a new future and rethink the strategy needed to get there. Visualize. Rethink. Solve! Learn how these decision-making elements can drive sustainability success! Register now and sponsor emerging sustainability leaders!

15% of each corporate delegate registration will contribute to StartingBloc’s work in support of its Fellows
ESF participants receive a formal StartingBloc letter of appreciation and recognition on StartingBloc’s website

The Economics of Peace

2009-09-16 15:56:16 -0400

This October, Praxis Peace Institute and RSF Social Finance are pleased to present The Economics of Peace in Sonoma, California. This unique 5-day event will address the pressing economic issues of our time and provide critical and collaborative tools for the economy of the future. The purpose of The Economics of Peace is to make visible the many emerging and innovative economic, market, financial, and exchange practices that are focused on environmental sustainability, social justice, and peace. The conference will feature lectures, workshops, and plenaries on topics such as:

Spain's Mondragón Cooperatives (the world's largest consortium of worker-owned businesses)
Regional capital markets
Complementary currencies
Local living economies
New approaches to economic policy
Cultural myths of money
Race and class in new economic thinking

World Renowned Speakers Include: James Galbraith, Vandana Shiva, David Korten, Riane Eisler, Mikel Lezamiz (Mondragón Cooperatives), Jacob Needleman, Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, Sam Keen, A.T. Ariyaratne; Melissa Bradley-Burns, and Judy Wicks. Workshop Leaders and Panelists Include: John Bloom, C.J. Callen and Pilar Gonzales (Conversation on Money, Race, and Class); Charles Eisenstein (Sacred Economics); Bob Graham (Microcredit);Hazel Henderson (Ethical Markets); Richard Logie (Global Exchange Trading Systems); Terry Mollner (Common Good Investing); Daniel Pinchbeck (Evolver); Kelley Rajala, Derek Huntington, and Mary Rick (Local Living Economies); David Ransom (Social Change); Don Shaffer (Regional Capital Markets); Norman Solomon (Green New Deal); Woody Tasch (Slow Money); Andrew Kimbrell (Salmon Economics); Trent Schroyer (Sustainable Economic Cultures); Stephanie Rearick (TimeBanking); Tom Greco (Complementary Currencies) Co-sponsors Include: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, E.F. Schumacher Society, BALLE (Business Alliance for Local Living Economies), Mother Jones Magazine, New Resource Bank, the North Bay Bohemian, Green America, the Sonoma Community Center, Westerbeke Ranch, Esalen Institute, Sonoma County GoLocal, Sustaining Technologies, Yes! Magazine, and others.

EABIS Colloquium 2009 – The Governance Conference

2009-09-07 08:00:25 -0400

The role of business in society: issues and challenges for corporate and Global governance The EABIS Colloquium is one of the world’s largest multi-stakeholder conferences to explore Corporate Responsibility issues in management practice, research and education. The Colloquium attracts each year an audience of 300+ high level executives, researchers, professors, policy-makers and other stakeholders. Programme Highlights:

New EABIS Research Exchange to broker corporate knowledge needs with latest academic research activities and thinking
Interactive multi-stakeholder debates to explore critical dimensions of governance in theory and practice
Dedicated networking events for corporate participants
Presentation of 70-80 papers and case studies by top scholars and managers
Book launch events for new EABIS member publications
Gala Dinner in Barcelona's Opera House - El Gran Teatre del Liceu

Piraeus Bank's Annual Corporate Responsibility Report 2008

2009-09-04 08:16:24 -0400

A Healthy Approach to Life: Corporate Responsibility Report 2008

2009-08-06 11:00:03 -0400

Resetting Responsibilities

2009-07-21 08:01:20 -0400

Baxter Highlights Progress Toward Sustainability Priorities in 10th Annual Sustainability Report

2009-06-18 16:31:20 -0400

Ford’s 10th Annual Sustainability Report Details Progress on Blueprint for Sustainability

2009-06-15 14:16:38 -0400

GREEN CITIES How Urban Sustainability Efforts Can and Must Drive America’s Climate Change Policies

2009-05-07 00:00:00 -0400

Improving Outcomes

2009-05-05 00:00:00 -0400

2008 Corporate Responsibility Report

2009-05-01 00:00:00 -0400

American Electric Power 2009 Corporate Sustainability Report

2009-04-28 00:00:00 -0400

2008 Global Citizenship Report

2009-04-27 00:00:00 -0400

Building a Foundation for Sustainability

2009-04-27 00:00:00 -0400

Our Commitment to the Future.

2009-04-14 00:00:00 -0400

2008 Corporate Responsibility Report

2009-03-26 00:00:00 -0400

The Four Dimensions of Sustainability White Paper

2009-03-02 00:00:00 -0500

ICMM Annual Review 2008 - Embracing Change

2009-02-25 00:00:00 -0500

Novo Nordisk Launches Fifth Integrated Annual Report Accounting for Financial, Social and Environmental Performance

2009-02-03 00:00:00 -0500

Sustainability Report 2008

2009-01-19 00:00:00 -0500