Duke Energy

Gilead Sciences

Mondelez International

People Behind the Power: What To Know About the Remarkable Role of Duke Energy Lineworkers

Gilead Helps Put African Nation on Path To Eliminate Hepatitis C

Mondelēz International’s Near-Term 2030 Targets and 2050 Net-Zero Targets Validated by Science Based Targets Initiative

In a challenging economic year, Vancity stayed focused on its vision of driving meaningful social and systemic change. Vancity continues to demonstrate that a financial institution can be an agent of positive change. Vancity’s 2023 financial results show areas of continued strength despite modest operating earnings amid a challenging rate environment.

Vancity’s 2023 Annual Report can be viewed here: <a href="https://www.vancity.com/about/credit-union/annual-report/" target="_blank">Annual Report - Vancity</a>

Action on the climate crisis remains a high priority. Vancity issued its second climate report including updating the progress made on both Vancity’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions across its loans and mortgages by 2040 and its Net Zero Bankers Alliance (NZBA) commitments. The climate report also includes disclosures on managing climate risks and opportunities, including through public policy advocacy, guided by the ISSB’s new IFRS S2 Climate-related Disclosures Standard, and detailed greenhouse gas emissions data and methodology. Vancity’s progress toward the 2025 interim targets for financed GHG emissions and “percentage change since 2019” from residential mortgages and commercial real estate are externally assured.

Vancity added a Sustainability Issuance Report to its reporting suite after publishing its first Sustainability Issuance Framework to guide issuances of green, social, and sustainable financing instruments. Vancity issued -- the first of its kind by a Canadian community credit union -- $200 million in bearer deposit notes (BDNs). The BDN proceeds were used to finance sustainability initiatives.

Vancity’s annual reporting makes a point of showcasing stories of impact about our members and their communities. Those stories reflect Vancity’s use of assets to create long-term value in communities through shareholder engagement, financing of climate-friendly building, and supporting a more diverse co-operative economy.

Report highlights include:

<ul><li>Grew total assets and assets under administration from $34.3 billion to $35.5 billion</li>
	<li>Financed $14.4 million worth of new Planet-WiseTM loans and commercial retrofits to help members take climate action in affordable ways</li>
	<li>Financed 729,635 square feet of energy-efficient buildings</li>
	<li>Financed the construction or renovation of 1,451 units of affordable housing</li>
	<li>Launched Indigenous cultural awareness training for all employees as a part of its commitment to the Progressive Aboriginal Relations™ certification program</li>
	<li>Named as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, Canada’s Top Family Friendly Employers, and BC’s Top Employers</li>
	<li>Launched a new defined-benefit pension plan and an updated employee benefit program</li>
</ul>Vancity’s values-based banking model is aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Vancity’s annual reporting was prepared in accordance with the International Integrated Reporting Framework and the Global Reporting Initiative Sustainability Reporting Standards. The reporting also includes some disclosures using the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) standards and reporting on the UN Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB).

Vancity takes a double materiality approach to determining what is material to include in the reporting based on what has the most significant impacts on the economy, environment, and people and topics that could substantively affect the ability to create value in the short, medium, and long term.

About Vancity

Vancity is a values-based financial co-operative serving the needs of its 570,000 member-owners and their communities, with offices and more than 50 branches located in Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Squamish and Alert Bay, within the territories of the Coast Salish and Kwakwaka’wakw people. With $35.5 billion in assets plus assets under administration, Vancity is Canada’s largest credit union. Vancity uses its assets to help improve the financial well-being of its members while at the same time helping to develop healthy communities that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.

Contact

<a href="mailto:mediarelations@vancity.com" target="_blank">Media Relations</a> 
Phone: 778-837-0394

Vancity in 2023

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="Check presentation with the Urban League of Greater Hartford and KeyBank." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9a138b7-82c9-4d83-90ee-c6062e08183f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Urban%20League%20Hartford_KeyBank_5.2.24A.jpeg" width="640" height="900" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Photo caption (from left): Project Ready Scholars are pictured with KeyBank leaders Neil Cyr, Area Retail Leader; Matt Hummel, Market President; David Hopkins, President and CEO, Urban League of Greater Hartford; Analisha Michanczyk, KeyBank Corporate Responsibility Officer; and Trayvonn A. Diaz, Senior Outreach Assistant to Senator Christopher Murphy.  </figcaption></figure>Hartford, Conn. May 8, 2024 /CSRwire/ – The Urban League of Greater Hartford has received a $150,000 charitable grant from KeyBank Foundation payable over two years to support the agency’s Project Ready program, a signature national youth development direct service. The funds will launch two new modules, (1) STEAM and (2) Financial Capability, to provide high schoolers with skills and experiences to help foster more racial diversity in quantitative fields.

“The Project Ready Scholars have been a cornerstone of our agency’s work and this investment from KeyBank in our students’ financial capabilities will be valuable to them in their personal and professional development,” said David Hopkins, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Hartford. “The generous intentionality of this grant from our friends at KeyBank actually makes it the largest annualized ($75,000/year) donation ever presented by a private funder to our Project Ready program!” Founded in 1964 with a mission to promote racial equity through economic empowerment, the Urban League of Greater Hartford is celebrating 60 years as one of the 92 affiliates of the National Urban League, providing programming and services in education, employment, housing, health, and justice.
<img alt="Leadership from the Urban League of Greater Hartford shown with a $150,000 check from KeyBank." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee78bd1b-2205-42d3-a07f-f037debff92c" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Urban%20League%20Hartford_KeyBank_5.2.24B.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="900" loading="lazy" />Project Ready modules operating in Hartford include mentoring, digital literacy, history and culture, and college success. The addition of the STEAM and Financial Capability modules will provide the Scholars, ranging in age from 14 to 19, with age-appropriate financial literacy in earnings, living expenses, budgeting, maintaining bank accounts, investing, and acquiring assets, as well as workforce readiness and entrepreneurship. Through workshops, simulations, speakers, tours, games, and activities, participants will be exposed to basic financial management techniques, and receive insights to help put them on a path to building wealth and reducing the wealth gap. Thanks to KeyBank, the Urban League of Greater Hartford expects to have an impact on current students, and attract new students, with these new modules, which also include financial incentives that afford participants an opportunity to actually put the things they learn into practice. In 2022, the Greater Hartford Project Ready team served nearly 70 students, 100 percent of whom were promoted to the next grade, with all of its seniors enrolling in college.

“Empowering our youth through financial education is an investment in a future where everyone has equal access to economic opportunities and where racial equity thrives,” said Matthew Hummel, KeyBank Connecticut and Western Massachusetts Market President. “KeyBank shares this vision with The Urban League and is proud to support Project Ready as a strong step forward toward that goal.”
<img alt="Members of the Urban League of Greater Hartford shown with a $150,000 grant check." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b227fde4-9a45-44d5-a0ed-a3f9b56db6aa" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Urban%20League%20Hartford_KeyBank_5.2.24C.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="900" loading="lazy" />KeyBank’s grant to The Urban League of Greater Hartford is part of the bank’s $40 billion community investments plan focused on economic access and equity to communities across the country. The scope of the plan includes investments and lending in affordable housing, home lending, small business lending, green initiatives, and transformative philanthropy targeted toward workforce development, education, and safe, vital neighborhoods for underserved communities and populations.

On May 1, 2024, KeyBank presented a check to Urban League of Greater Hartford leaders and young scholars at the nonprofit organization’s “College Signing Day” for graduating students, their parents and educators, held this year at the Chrysalis Center in Hartford.

<ul><li><a href="https://www.wtnh.com/news/connecticut/hartford/hartford-program-helps-students-commit-to-college/" target="_blank">Hartford program helps students commit to college (wtnh.com)</a>.</li>
</ul><img alt="Matthew Hummel, KeyBank Connecticut and Western Massachusetts Market President." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="114f6a5d-1941-46fe-9d99-beb46ecd90cf" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Urban%20League%20Hartford_KeyBank_5.2.24D.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="667" loading="lazy" />About the Urban League of Greater Hartford:

The Urban League of Greater Hartford is a community-based, not-for-profit 501(c)(3), established in 1964 as the National Urban League’s 66th affiliate. Its mission is to promote racial equity through economic empowerment programs in the areas of youth development, adult education, workforce development, housing, personal financial management, community health, and social justice. Its programs and operations impact more than 3,000 individuals and their families every year. visit <a href="http://www.ulgh.org" target="_blank">www.ulgh.org</a> or call 860-527-0147. Follow us on social media @ulgh64.

About KeyBank Foundation:

KeyBank Foundation serves to fulfill KeyBank’s purpose to help clients and communities thrive, and its mission is to support organizations and programs that prepare people for thriving futures. The Foundation’s mission is advanced through three funding priorities – neighbors, education, and workforce – and through community service. To provide meaningful philanthropy that transforms lives, KeyBank Foundation listens carefully to understand the unique characteristics and needs of its communities and then backs solutions with targeted philanthropic investments. KeyBank Foundation is a nonprofit charitable foundation, funded by KeyCorp.
<img alt="Booth for College Sign in Day shown at the Urban League of Hartford." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eefc07f7-24cd-415f-83b0-16828a001476" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Urban%20League%20Hartford_KeyBank_5.2.24E.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="825" loading="lazy" />About KeyCorp/KeyBank

KeyCorp's roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $187 billion at March 31, 2024. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.key.com/" target="_blank">https://www.key.com/</a>. KeyBank is Member FDIC
<img alt="Check presentation at Urban League of Greater Hartford." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a71c17b-6937-44c6-bc7a-289e55000f52" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Urban%20League%20Hartford_KeyBank_5.2.24F.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="800" loading="lazy" />Media contacts:

Urban League of Greater Hartford: Laura Soll, Communications, | 860-688-4499, M 860-833-4466 | <a href="mailto:Laura@sollpr.com" target="_blank">Laura@sollpr.com</a>

KeyBank: Karen Crane, Communications Manager | 203-789-2752 | <a href="mailto:karen_crane@keybank.com" target="_blank">karen_crane@keybank.com</a>

Urban League of Greater Hartford Is Awarded $150,000 Grant From KeyBank Foundation

CSAA Insurance Group, a AAA insurer, today released its <a href="https://csaa-insurance.aaa.com/impact" target="_blank">2023 Impact Report</a>, assessing its collective progress toward its goals for planet, people and practice and highlighting its accomplishments in these areas.

“We recognize that addressing one audience or one area in isolation may not lead to our desired outcomes,” said Mike Zukerman, CSAA’s interim president and chief executive officer. “That’s why we’ve started to employ a broader lens – total social impact – when looking at our imprint on our planet, our people, and the communities we serve as we progress on our journey in these spaces.”

Key highlights from the 2023 Impact Report include the following:

50% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

The company’s goal of a 50% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2025 was achieved in 2023 – two years ahead of plan. (Note: Inclusive of Scopes 1, 2 and 3, inclusive of business travel, employee commute, work-from-home energy, and paper emissions, vs. 2016 baseline.)

Improved CDP score

For the second year, CSAA voluntarily submitted its climate journey, including its emission inventories, to the CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), a not-for-profit charity that runs a global disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impacts. CSAA scored a B for 2023, a significant improvement from its 2022 score of a C. This milestone will help the company propel its work forward and better understand its strengths and opportunities.

$25M investment in California Wildfire Innovation Fund

CSAA committed to investing $25M in the California Wildfire Innovation Fund. The company partnered with Blue Forest Asset Management, a conservation finance non-profit focused on forest restoration, to create the fund with the goal of helping protect the environment, its customers and communities. Part of the investment has been allocated to impactful projects that are helping to reduce wildfire risk while providing job opportunities in rural communities.

Go Green Benefit program

In 2023, CSAA developed the Go Green Benefit program for launch in 2024. This decarbonization strategy offers employees financial incentives to purchase green electricity for home offices, supports employees with solar energy and encourages climate-friendly commuting for in-office employees.

Milestone in representation of women

In 2023, CSAA accomplished an important milestone – representation of women at the supervisor, manager and executive levels (combined) achieved parity with the U.S. labor force. The only level below parity is the executive group, at 46%.

Climate Resiliency Challenge

In 2023, CSAA – along with design firm IDEO and professional services firm Aon, among others – launched the global Climate Resiliency Challenge. The Challenge sought solutions to help frontline communities prevent, prepare for and recover from climate-related disasters, such as wildfires, floods and extreme weather. The 2023 Impact Report features six case studies celebrating some of the Challenge winners and how their big ideas have leaned into innovation to support their communities.

“We engage in partnerships to enable this work because we know that partnering for change makes change far more likely to occur,” said Zukerman. “We believe that our impact strategy facilitates an empowered workforce and trust in our company, all of which are integral to the sustainable growth and profitability of our organization.”

For more information, access the full <a href="https://csaa-insurance.aaa.com/impact" target="_blank">2023 Impact Report</a>.

About CSAA Insurance Group

CSAA Insurance Group, a AAA Insurer, offers automobile, homeowners and other personal lines of insurance to AAA Members through AAA clubs in 23 states and the District of Columbia. Founded in 1914, the company has been rated “A” or better by AM Best for more than 90 years and is one of the top personal lines property casualty insurance groups in the United States, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. The company has been repeatedly named one of the 50 most community-minded companies in America by Points of Light. More information is available at <a href="http://csaa-insurance.aaa.com/" target="_blank">http://csaa-insurance.aaa.com</a> and on social media (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CSAAInsuranceGp" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/csaa-insurance-group/?viewAsMember=true" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/csaainsurancegroup/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@csaainsurancegroup?is_from_webapp=1&amp;sender_device=pc" target="_blank">Tik Tok</a>, <a href="https://www.threads.net/@csaainsurancegroup" target="_blank">Threads</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@csaainsurancegroup" target="_blank">YouTube</a>). External Affairs <a href="mailto:pr@csaa.com" target="_blank" title="mailto:pr@csaa.com">pr@csaa.com</a>

CSAA Insurance Group Releases Impact Report Detailing Its Significant Initiatives and Contributions in 2023

Bloomberg published its <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/company/values/sustainability/?utm_medium=sustainability_&amp;utm_content=site-partner&amp;utm_source=OOH&amp;utm_campaign=MKTG_sustainability_GLOBAL_USA_2024&amp;tactic=848851#impact-report" target="_blank">2023 Impact Report</a>, which outlines how the company continues to address climate change through its operations, philanthropy and collaborations with partners and industry peers. The report also details how Bloomberg integrates sustainable business practices into its operations and decision-making and how it helps to drive progress in the communities where employees and clients live and work.

The report highlights Bloomberg’s latest ESG datasets, tools and research, including products that help firms assess risks and opportunities as the world transitions to a net-zero emissions economy and meet new climate-related regulatory requirements. Bloomberg also outlines its progress toward reaching its validated science-based net-zero emission reduction target by 2040, including the recent signing of an 80 MW Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for renewable energy.

“We’re working to increase access to data and information that helps investors and policymakers make informed decisions that both grow the economy and help catalyze investment in a clean energy future.” said Michael R. Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies. “And, through our support of industry initiatives such as the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero, we advanced our work providing resources to financial firms to help them measure and manage emissions across their portfolios.”

Read the full letter <a href="https://assets.bbhub.io/company/sites/51/2024/04/Bloomberg-Impact-Report-2023.pdf#page=3" target="_blank">here</a>.

A selection of highlights from the 2023 Impact Report include:

Environmental Impact 

Reducing emissions in line with a 1.5°C future

<ul><li>Received validation from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for Bloomberg’s long-term science-based net-zero target to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain by 2040</li>
	<li>Progressed toward our SBTi-validated near-term science-based carbon emissions reduction targets with 21% Scope 1 and 2 reductions and 27% Scope 3 reductions</li>
	<li>Obtained 62.2% of Bloomberg’s global electricity consumption from renewable sources</li>
	<li>Signed an 80 MW Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)—our largest PPA to date—with clean energy developer Ørsted</li>
</ul>Supporting coherent, impactful climate action

<ul><li>Introduced new indices within the Bloomberg Climate Index family including the new Bloomberg Commodity Carbon-Tilted Index</li>
	<li>Released new Bloomberg Terminal tools for analyzing physical risk and net-zero transition risk</li>
	<li>Launched new Bloomberg Terminal data and analytical tools to provide a comprehensive view of the nature-related impacts and dependencies in investment portfolios</li>
	<li>Enhanced our solutions for disclosure, reporting and analysis against key regulatory frameworks</li>
	<li>Published more than 2,500 research publications on the global low carbon transition and commodity markets</li>
</ul>Social Impact 

Investing in an increasingly diverse workforce

<ul><li>Invested in our leaders, helping them build the skills needed to elevate and model inclusive leadership with the launch of three new inclusive leadership initiatives</li>
	<li>Established a task force to respond to the challenges and needs of our colleagues with disabilities</li>
	<li>Collaborated with more than 20 external organizations, including forming new partnerships to help us identify and hire candidates from underrepresented communities</li>
	<li>Launched the Bloomberg Veterans Impact Program, which seeks to improve how we recruit, retain and advance veterans’ careers at Bloomberg</li>
	<li>Launched a comprehensive women's health program in the UK to normalize women's health in the workplace, break stigma and offer ongoing support</li>
</ul>Driving Social Change

<ul><li>Launched a first-of-its-kind data tool to assess the potential impact of a company’s business on any of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)</li>
	<li>Over 19,000 employees volunteered in their communities</li>
	<li>Delivered over 2.8 million meals and over 79,000 care kits to those in need</li>
	<li>Expanded cross-regional programs to demystify financial services and encourage women and under-represented communities to consider careers in finance</li>
	<li>Helped bridge the digital divide through mentoring interactions and by promoting employee-driven funding for open-source software</li>
	<li>Promoted diverse voices in media and the arts through diversifying our news sources and extending programs to strengthen financial journalism</li>
</ul>The Impact Report is third-party verified, and has been prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) standards specific to our industries and the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), and it incorporates select content from CDP. The 2023 Impact Report and supplemental reports can be viewed and downloaded at <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/company/values/sustainability/#impact-report" target="_blank">www.bloomberg.com/impact</a>.

About Bloomberg 
Bloomberg is a global leader in business and financial information, delivering trusted data, news, and insights that bring transparency, efficiency, and fairness to markets. The company helps connect influential communities across the global financial ecosystem via reliable technology solutions that enable our customers to make more informed decisions and foster better collaboration. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/company" target="_blank">Bloomberg.com/company</a> or <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/professional/request-demo/?utm_source=bbg-pr&amp;bbgsum=dg-ws-core-pr" target="_blank">request a demo</a>.

Media Contact <a href="mailto:ttrippett@bloomberg.net" target="_blank">Ty Trippet</a> 
+ 1 212-617-2443

Bloomberg Publishes 2023 Impact Report Highlighting Its Work To Reach Its Net-Zero Emissions Reduction Target and To Accelerate Climate Action

<img alt="A person leaning against agricultural machinery " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a60bf3e3-5650-42fc-8ef3-a40ba67a910f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/2-Lina-Marcela-Gonzalez-Vasquez_CNH_041024.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="900" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.casece.com/northamerica/en-us" target="_blank">CASE Construction Equipment</a>, a <a href="https://www.cnh.com/" target="_blank">CNH</a> brand, highlights the inspiring story of a construction professional who is always in pursuit of improving her skills in the sector.

Historically, women in construction have faced major challenges, including gender discrimination and lack of equal opportunities. However, they have persevered and made significant strides in the fight for equality in the industry.

In a story where passion and attitude are essential pillars, CASE presents the story of Lina Marcela Gonzalez Vásquez, Commercial Coordinator of the dealer <a href="https://partequipos.com/" target="_blank">Partequipos</a>, the official distributor for CASE in Colombia. "The word that best defines what work means to me is "fulfillment", says Lina, “Every day, having the opportunity to contribute, grow professionally, and achieve goals within my field of work gives me a sense of satisfaction and personal accomplishment that I find invaluable."

In her day-to-day work, Lina plays a fundamental role, supporting and sustaining the commercial process to promote the development of each sales opportunity, providing accompaniment to both commercial advisors and others involved. In addition, she oversees the negotiation processes with international suppliers, always maintaining a results-oriented approach, with a high level of productivity and quality in her work.

Women play a prominent role throughout the sector's value chain, which has increased in recent years. "Personally, I am optimistic about the growing presence of women in a male-dominated sector like mine. Participation not only fosters gender equality, but also enriches our work environment with a variety of perspectives and skills."
<img alt="A person stood in front of agricultural machinery " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70acedb0-763e-46b8-9f69-0dfdcfce2be3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Lina-Marcela-Gonzalez-Vasquez_CNH_041024.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="900" loading="lazy" />12 years of hard work later, Lina still finds herself in a position to learn more about her field every day. "My journey in the heavy machinery field has taught me the importance of adaptability, effective communication, and continuous learning. I have learned to face challenges with flexibility and determination, to value customer satisfaction, and to constantly look for opportunities to improve my skills. These learnings have been fundamental for my personal and professional growth in the field," said Lina.

Since 2016, Partequipos has been an official CASE distributor in the Latin American country. Currently, it has points of sale in seven of the main cities of the country, providing coverage and assistance at a national level, ensuring a comprehensive and effective service throughout the territory.

From strategic locations, the distributor offers the wide portfolio of the brand's construction line, highlighting skid steer loaders, backhoe loaders, motor graders, excavators, among others, equipment that plays a fundamental role in the growth and development of the country.

Sharing Lina’s story is a demonstration of CNH’s commitment to integrating diverse experiences and perspectives into the work of its brands and dealers. The company continuously supports women in Ag and Construction to continue Breaking New Ground.

CNH Brand Supports Women in Construction

<img alt="Static Image 1st place winner, by EL Mikkelsen, Arizona State University" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78ab7a08-3733-4116-9f72-3a02d5a12676" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/more-important-recognize-power-donating-money-support-international-disaster-relief_USAID_050124.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1080" loading="lazy" />May 2, 2024 /CSRwire/ - The USAID Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) and USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA) are proud to announce the winners of their annual PSAid contest, a public service announcement design competition for college students. Each year, participants are invited to create PSAs explaining why “Cash is Best” when donating to international disaster relief efforts.  
When disaster strikes internationally, Americans want to help. While well intentioned, most people are unaware that donating material goods can hinder relief efforts by creating logistical challenges and overwhelming local infrastructure. Monetary donations to trusted organizations working on the ground helps support international disaster relief efforts and makes a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by these devastating events.  
The 2024 winning PSAs were selected from submissions received from universities and community colleges across the country in three categories: video, static image and GIFs.  
Congratulations to the 2024 PSAid contest winners:  GIF:

<ul><li>1st: <a href="https://www.psaid.org/portfolio-items/cash-is-best-7/" target="_blank">Cash is Best</a>, Izie Figueroa, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>2nd: Cash is Fast, Emyli Hinojosa Rafael, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>3rd: Why is Cash Best?, Hyelim (Amy) Song, Arizona State University</li>
</ul>Static Image:

<ul><li>1st: <a href="https://www.psaid.org/portfolio-items/send-cash/" target="_blank">Send Cash!</a>, EL Mikkelsen, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>2nd: Unblocking Relief Efforts, Emma Klarin, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>3rd: Change is Magic, Sydnee Reed, Arizona State University</li>
</ul>Video:

<ul><li>1st: <a href="https://www.psaid.org/portfolio-items/global-chat/" target="_blank">Global Chat</a>, Natalie Clark, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>2nd: No Matter the Disaster, Alula Valdivia, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>3rd: Quick and in Quantity, Gabe Pante, Arizona State University</li>
</ul>"Throughout this experience, I learned how valuable cash is during international disasters,” said Sydnee Reed of Arizona State University, third-place winner in the static image category. “I hope people see this and understand that needs are different in every situation, and the best way to make a change is to donate something that is universally valued.”  
A panel of experts from the fields of humanitarian assistance, communications and design served as volunteer judges: Oktay Dogramaci, former vice president of PayPal Giving, CTO and co-founder of MissionFish; Hillary Hoffower, editor and writer; Jeff Odom, director of digital marketing for IndyCar; Gretel Truong, producer; and Marcia Wong, deputy assistant to the administrator for USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance.  
USAID also invited the public to vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice contest.  People’s Choice winners:

<ul><li>GIF: Finding Your Zen With Cash, Alliyah Zaragoza, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>Static Image: The Pocket Sized Solution, Avery Cluff, Arizona State University</li>
	<li>Video: One Solution, Cash is Best, Jasmine Lawson, Arizona State University</li>
</ul>The winning PSAs will be used in CIDI’s “Cash is Best” outreach efforts. Previous winning PSAs have reached over 1 billion people and have been in more than 150 media markets, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta. Winning broadcast PSAs have appeared on streaming services, such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime. Winning static PSAs and GIFs have been featured in Forbes, Rolling Stone, The Boston Herald, and the Arizona Republic, to name a few publications.  
All winning entries can be viewed at <a href="https://www.psaid.org/" target="_blank">PSAid.org</a>.  
###  About USAID CIDI  
USAID CIDI was created in 1988 by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance to inform the public about the advantages of giving monetary donations to relief organizations and warn about the risks of donating unsolicited material goods. Through its “Cash is Best” messaging, CIDI’s goal is to support donors and relief agencies as they work to provide quick, effective, and efficient relief to people affected by disasters. CIDI provides donations guidance to individuals, groups, embassies, businesses, and corporations. For more information about “Cash is Best” and helping international disaster survivors, please visit USAID CIDI at <a href="http://www.cidi.org/" target="_blank">www.cidi.org</a>.  Media Contact:  <a href="mailto:ariel.selzer@hillandknowlton.com" target="_blank">Ariel Selzer White</a>  
(713) 492-5627

<a href="https://www.psaid.org/" target="_blank">Learn More</a>

It’s More Important Than Ever To Recognize the Power of Donating Money To Support International Disaster Relief

In a challenging economic year, Vancity stayed focused on its vision of driving meaningful social and systemic change. Vancity continues to demonstrate that a financial institution can be an agent of positive change. 

<img alt="A finished playground" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f71166f5-ddb6-4b91-a7d5-14573d493a57" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/playground_atlanticcityelectric_042224.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="900" loading="lazy" />MAYS LANDING, N.J., May 8, 2024 /CSRwire/ - Volunteers from Atlantic City Electric, KABOOM!, Gateway Community Action Partnership, the Borough of Paulsboro and community members came together to bring a children-designed and community-built playground to life at the West Buck Street Park in Paulsboro, N.J. Hundreds of local volunteers came together on April 10 for this one-day, community-driven playground build. This project represents progress in ensuring every child has a place to play, providing a state-of-the-art playground for children to enjoy each year.

“I am truly proud to work for a company that focuses so much on our communities where we not only serve, but where many of us live and work,” said Doug Mokoid, Region President, Atlantic City Electric. “The work we do day in and day out is important, but we must also remember that helping our communities grow and flourish is also vital. Seeing our employees come together outside of their daily work, side-by-side with the community, is a prime example of the company’s core principles- putting to action that we are more than energy.”

More than 100 volunteers from Atlantic City Electric, which included members from IBEW Local 210, took part in the day-long build, which brought to life the design concepts inspired by local children. The “Design Day” held in January 2024 kicked off the planning process and brought community members together to intricately compose their designs into what is now seen today at West Buck Street Park.

“The West Buck Street Playground has always been an integral part of the immediate neighborhood it serves and to the residents of Paulsboro,” said Borough of Paulsboro Mayor John Giovannitti. “The Borough of Paulsboro is excited to partner with KABOOM!, Gateway CAP and Atlantic City Electric to create, design and build a ‘new’ West Buck Street Playground. We believe this will help unite our community and create a fun and safe place for our families to meet and play.”

The project is part of a nationwide effort led by KABOOM! to end playspace inequity – the reality that far too many children – especially children of color – do not get the chance to play on a playground, something that should be part of every child’s life. Their work is to ensure every child can experience the numerous physical, social and mental health benefits of play regardless of background or where they live.

“Playgrounds are an iconic part of childhood where kids collect some of their best memories and experience the countless physical and mental health benefits of play,” said Lysa Ratliff, Chief Executive Officer of KABOOM!. “KABOOM! is thrilled to work with Atlantic City Electric, Gateway Community Action Partnership, and the Borough of Paulsboro to build the new playspace on West Buck Street and ensure that generations of kids can grow up happy and healthy through access to playspaces where they feel they are valued and belong.”

This playground build is also the starting point of a longer-term revitalization plan for the Paulsboro community. It is a launching pad to Gateway Community Action Partnership’s initiative through the Neighborhood Revitalization Planning Grant, which they received in December 2023. It focuses on community-driven projects, like the playground build, to support comprehensive equity focused community development plans.

"This represents more than just an investment in swings and slides; it symbolizes a dedication to the well-being, joy and unity of our local community. It reflects our profound commitment to fostering secure, welcoming and interactive spaces that support the growth of our children, strengthen family bonds and promote neighborly connections,” said Edward Bethea, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Gateway Community Action Partnership. “We must also emphasize that this new playground will act as a key catalyst for the Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative process in the Paulsboro area."

Atlantic City Electric is committed to ensuring the communities it serves and where its employees live and work, thrive. Events like this further strengthen the company's commitment to powering a cleaner and brighter future for its customers and communities.

About KABOOM!  
KABOOM! is the national nonprofit committed to ending playspace inequity – the reality that quality places to play are not available to every child, especially in communities of color. Since 1996, KABOOM! has partnered with kids and communities to build or improve 17,000+ playspaces and ensure that nearly 12 million kids have equitable access to the crucial benefits and opportunities that playspaces offer. In 2022, KABOOM! launched the <a href="https://kaboom.org/25-in-5" target="_blank">25 in 5 Initiative to End Playspace Inequity</a> to accelerate its mission in 25 high-priority locations over five years. Learn more at <a href="https://kaboom.org/" target="_blank">kaboom.org</a> or join the conversation on <a href="https://twitter.com/kaboom" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kaboom" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kaboom/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/authwall?trk=bf&amp;trkInfo=AQFdj3TjgSOqEwAAAY7ikY8wZ7Rov3-3AxUWdKHchz9dfGsI9Q3i5a6Q2YJeyK05XoNOWY56RnbGwMmCT8lXia0X4_dvXB2pdSrLKdr466ccI4nb88EMTcQkFcz7YpO6LazD6aA=&amp;original_referer=&amp;sessionRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fkaboom%2F" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.

About Gateway Community Action Partnership  
Gateway Community Action Partnership is the designated Community Action Program (CAP) for Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties in Southern New Jersey and also provides services in Atlantic, Camden, Cape May and Mercer counties, as well as Philadelphia. As a CAP, Gateway Community Action Partnership helps low- and moderate-income residents identify and overcome barriers to self-sufficiency. The agency’s more than 650 employees form a network of professional teachers, social workers, counselors, nutritionists and program planners, all dedicated to making our communities better places to live and work for all residents. Gateway CAP is a private, non-profit, community-based organization with a federal 501-C-3 designation by the IRS.

About the Borough of Paulsboro  
Paulsboro Borough is robust diverse municipality located in Southern New Jersey. Founded the 17th. Century and incorporated as” Paulsboro” in 1904, it is the home to Fort Billingsport, the first land purchase made by the United States, acquired on July 5, 1776, the day after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

To learn more about Atlantic City Electric, visit <a href="http://thesource.atlanticcityelectric.com/" target="_blank">The Source</a>, Atlantic City Electric’s online newsroom. Find additional information by visiting <a href="http://atlanticcityelectric.com/" target="_blank">atlanticcityelectric.com</a>, on Facebook at <a href="http://facebook.com/atlanticcityelectric" target="_blank">facebook.com/AtlanticCityElectric</a>, and on X, formerly known as Twitter, at <a href="http://www.twitter.com/acelecconnect" target="_blank">twitter.com/AcEleCconnect</a>. Atlantic City Electric’s mobile app is available at <a href="http://www.atlanticcityelectric.com/mobileapp" target="_blank">atlanticcityelectric.com/MobileApp</a>.

View original content <a href="https://www.atlanticcityelectric.com/news/news-releases/atlantic-city-electric-brings-kid-designed-playground-to-life-with-hundreds-of-local-volunteers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Volunteers from Atlantic City Electric, KABOOM!, Gateway Community Action Partnership, the Borough of Paulsboro and community members came together to bring a children-designed and community-built playground to life at the West Buck Street Park in Paulsboro, N.J.

Atlantic City Electric Brings Kid-Designed Playground to Life With Hundreds of Local Volunteers

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2024-04/30th-anniversary_Cummins_041224.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

<a href="https://www.cummins.com/news/releases/2024/02/15/valvolinetm-global-operations-and-cummins-celebrate-30th-anniversary" target="_blank">Cummins</a>

LEXINGTON, Ky. /CSRwire/ - Valvoline Global, a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, and Cummins Inc., a global power leader, announced a major milestone of their longstanding partnership.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of a comprehensive partnership for the world-class brands.

Like all good collaborations, it continues to move both companies forward.

Since 1994, the teams at Valvoline Global and Cummins have worked together in the field and in labs to develop products that complement each other. Working as a single team to deliver the best customer value, Cummins designs and builds cutting-edge engines, generators and power systems, and Valvoline Global creates innovative lubricants and fluid solutions alongside them. Customers benefit from that teamwork and have the peace of mind knowing they have two premium products that were designed to bring out the best in one another.

“Our partnership with Cummins is one that we are really proud of. At Valvoline Global, we’ll continue innovating, whether its diesel, natural gas, hydrogen, alternative fuels, fuel cells and future technologies,” said Jamal Muashsher, CEO, Valvoline Global. “Whenever Cummins creates a product, Valvoline will make sure there are lubricants, fluids and sustainable solutions that complement it.”

“Customers can run equipment with maximum efficiency and reliability, perform fewer oil changes over the life of the equipment, resulting in cost savings,” said Tony Satterthwaite, Senior Vice President, Cummins Inc. “And fleet managers could also see reduced cost of ownership due to product consolidation, increased working capital and reduced risk of incorrect oil-to-engine usage.”
<img alt="A person pouring a bottle of motor oil " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17d577d8-f89a-4c7d-89f7-a1da8f7be4b9" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Valvoline_Cummins_041224.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="620" loading="lazy" />Recently, trade publication Heavy Duty Trucking named Premium Blue One Solution™ Gen2 as one of its top innovative products. The industry-first fuel agnostic technology is approved for use in multiple heavy-duty, medium-duty and light-duty engine types, providing extended drain intervals for both diesel and natural gas engine platforms.

Satterthwaite added, “We have an extended partnership in the form of joint ventures to sell and market our products together in emerging markets, delivering fantastic results while supporting customers. Our Cummins-Valvoline joint venture in India just celebrated their own 25th Anniversary in 2023.”

With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a vision for continued growth, Valvoline Global and Cummins are poised to make an even greater impact on global communities, including automotive and industrial sectors in the years ahead.

About Cummins Inc.

Cummins Inc., a global power solutions leader, is comprised of five business segments – Components, Engine, Distribution, Power Systems and Accelera by Cummins – supported by our global manufacturing and extensive service and support network, skilled workforce and vast technological expertise. Cummins is committed to its Destination Zero strategy, which is grounded in the company’s commitment to sustainability and helping its customers successfully navigate the energy transition with its broad portfolio of products. The products range from advanced diesel, natural gas, electric and hybrid powertrains and powertrain-related components including filtration, aftertreatment, turbochargers, fuel systems, valvetrain technologies, controls systems, air handling systems, automated transmissions, axles, drivelines, brakes, suspension systems, electric power generation systems, batteries, electrified power systems, hydrogen production technologies and fuel cell products. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana (U.S.), since its founding in 1919, Cummins employs approximately 75,500 people committed to powering a more prosperous world through three global corporate responsibility priorities critical to healthy communities: education, environment and equality of opportunity. Cummins serves its customers online, through a network of company-owned and independent distributor locations, and through thousands of dealer locations worldwide and earned about $735 million on sales of $34.1 billion in 2023. See how Cummins is powering a world that's always on by accessing news releases and more information at <a href="https://www.cummins.com/" target="_blank">https://www.cummins.com/</a>.

About Valvoline™ Global Operations

Valvoline Global is a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, creating future-ready products and best-in-class services for partners around the globe. Established in 1866, the company introduced the world’s first branded motor oil and developed strong brand recognition and customer satisfaction ratings across multiple product channels. With sales in more than 140 countries and territories, Valvoline Global’s solutions are available for every engine and drivetrain, including high-mileage and heavy-duty vehicles, offered at more than 80,000 locations. Valvoline Global is powering the future of mobility through innovative solutions for vehicles with electric, hybrid and internal combustion powertrains – and the company will continue to solve for global automotive and industrial challenges as it moves forward. To learn more, visit <a href="https://www.valvolineglobal.com/en-eur/" target="_blank">ValvolineGlobal.com</a>.

™ Trademark, Valvoline Global or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.

Media Contact

Jon Mills  
Director – External Communications  
(317) 658-4540 <a href="mailto:jon.mills@cummins.com" target="_blank">jon.mills@cummins.com</a>

Abby Malik  
Valvoline™ Global Operations Contact  
+1-606-923-8864 <a href="mailto:abby.malik@valvoline.com" target="_blank">abby.malik@valvoline.com</a>

Valvoline Global, a worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, and Cummins Inc., a global power leader, announced a major milestone of their longstanding partnership.

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