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

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6d57a28-c242-4fec-bfe3-08ab8ce10959" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/BPO%20Award_KeyBank_5.7.24A.jpg" width="640" height="802" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Amanda Hays, Vice President and Relationship Manager for Key Private Bank, accepts the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra’s 2024 Leadership in Music Education Award on behalf of KeyBank. Photo courtesy: Brett Deneve</figcaption></figure><a href="https://www.key.com/personal/index.html" target="_blank">KeyBank</a> was recently recognized by the <a href="https://bpo.org/" target="_blank">Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra</a> (BPO) with its 2024 Leadership in Music Education Award during the annual <a href="https://bpo.org/celebration-of-music-education/#1650397545740-bb9081f2-132d" target="_blank">Celebration of Music Education</a>. KeyBank and First Niagara Bank, which was acquired by KeyCorp in 2016, have had an impactful relationship with the BPO that amounts to a combined total of almost $3 million in lifetime giving. Amanda Hays, Vice President and Relationship Manager for Key Private Bank, accepted the award on behalf of KeyBank.

KeyBank’s extraordinary support of the BPO’s education and outreach programs through its support of the Next Generation Education Fund have allowed the BPO to invest in the future generations of the Western New York community. Funding has helped develop and expand indispensable music education programs that enhance the classroom experience and create well-rounded citizens, especially in the neighborhood near Kleinhans Music Hall, which is home to the BPO.

Studies show that arts education has many positive effects on childhood development. Music, specifically, facilitates comprehension, fosters creativity, builds communication skills, and may lead to improved classroom performance and self-confidence in the long-term. KeyBank’s support helps the BPO serve more than 33,000 students annually.

KeyBank was recently recognized by the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) with its 2024 Leadership in Music Education Award during the annual Celebration of Music Education. KeyBank and First Niagara Bank, which was acquired by KeyCorp in 2016.

KeyBank Honored at Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's Annual Celebration of Music Education

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="Solar farm with trees and buildings in the distance " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="124bdab5-3cbc-4119-8bd9-2ed770f78b7b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/investing-in-rooftop-solar-to-secure-low-carbon-electricity-in-a-constrained-market_CBRE_050124.jpg" width="640" height="1080" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure><a href="https://www.cbre.co.uk/insights/articles/surging-electricity-demand-across-uk-cities-makes-a-strong-case-for-investing-in-rooftop-solar" target="_blank">CBRE</a>

By <a href="https://www.cbre.co.uk/people/jennet-siebrits" target="_blank">Jen Siebrits </a><a href="https://www.cbre.co.uk/people/toby-radcliffe" target="_blank">Toby Radcliffe</a>

The UK transition to net zero relies on increasing the use of renewably generated electricity. But with <a href="https://www.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Sector-summary-Electricity-generation.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">electricity demand predicted to double the in UK by 2050</a>, renewable energy generation and power infrastructure will have to scale up rapidly. And so, there is a clear investment opportunity. However, traditional renewables investments can be challenging, with some connection dates as far away as 2035.

This is where real estate can play an important role. Specifically, capitalising on roof space for solar energy generation. While commercial rooftop solar will always require a grid connection, the timelines tend to be significantly shorter than utility scale generation sites (albeit there are still limitations for large systems on warehouse roofs).

So that’s the what and why, but what about the where? We know the need will increase in all cities, but demand will rise in some more than others. For a better understanding, we analysed <a href="https://www.futureenergyscenarios.com/2023-FES/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ESO (Electricity System Operator) data</a> to discover the minimum and maximum increase in electricity demand at city level.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="Figure 1: Predicted increase in electricity demand between 2024 and 2030" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58c40230-f8c3-45a9-b382-2c1e79eb86ed" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Figure-1_CBRE_050124.png" width="640" height="835" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Source: National Grid Electricity System Operator, CBRE Research. Courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure>The highest forecast, which shows changes on a trajectory to achieve net zero by 2050, suggests an average 24% increase in electricity demand across our cities in the next six years alone. Edinburgh and Glasgow had the highest increases of over 30%, which partly reflects its colder temperatures, but all cities show a significant increase. However, these estimates rely on improved energy efficiency, use of electricity for heating and an overall reduction in consumer demand. If this doesn’t happen, the pattern of demand will be different. For example, under a scenario where the UK fails to achieve net zero by 2050, the demand for electricity will be lower. However, even so, there is still an estimated 8% increase in electricity demand across our cities by 2030.

Regardless, in any case, in just six years electricity demand will have risen significantly. Because growth in grid capacity moves slower than this, these forecasts suggest that investing in rooftop solar in UK cities is a good strategy for utilising unused space and securing low carbon electricity as demand surges. However, solar installation is not always straight forward so site and location assessments are recommended to find the best opportunities.

Notes: The minimum and a maximum increase in electricity use reflect the different ways in which the UK power grid decarbonises. The higher range – the consumer transformation scenario – assumes the UK is on path to achieving net zero net zero by 2050 by electrifying heating, achieving high energy efficiency and reducing consumer demand. The lower estimate reflects a ‘falling short’ scenario, whereby the UK does not achieve net zero by 2050 and only takes limited steps to decarbonise power generation.

The UK transition to net zero relies on increasing the use of renewably generated electricity. But with electricity demand predicted to double the in UK by 2050, renewable energy generation and power infrastructure will have to scale up rapidly.

Surging Electricity Demand Across UK Cities Makes a Strong Case for Investing in Rooftop Solar

<img alt="Exterior red support beams covering a walkway." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7948835-4443-4e24-b8e7-f742b394019d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/exterior_cummins_041224.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="620" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.cummins.com/news/releases/2024/01/08/cummins-rocky-mount-engine-plant-announces-580m-project-jobs-and-economic" target="_blank">Cummins</a>

ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. /CSRwire/ - Global power technology leader Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) announced a $580 million project to drive economic and job growth in the Nash County community. Cummins has received approval for tax incentives to help move the project forward and the incentives received from the Nash County Commissioners office will support the continued investment within the area.

This strategic investment is set to generate approximately 80 additional new jobs, fostering both short-term employment opportunities and long-term job stability. As Cummins continues towards its Destination Zero Strategy and its plan to achieve zero emissions across its products, the investment will involve installing new equipment for the future of manufacturing and upgrading the assembly line for next generation products. This investment is part of Cummins recent investment of more than $1 billion across its U.S. manufacturing network.

“We are excited to be driving continued growth within Nash County and creating jobs that rely on high caliber technology for the future,” said Steve Pinkston, Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant Manager. “Cummins is focused on Destination Zero and getting there as quickly as possible. We need engagement from federal, state, and local governments like Nash County to achieve our goals and we are grateful for their support. When we receive engagement from local partners like this, it helps us move faster toward a more sustainable future.”

With a rich history of production for more than 40 years and producing over 5 million engines at RMEP, this milestone investment reaffirms Cummins' dedication to the region's economic vitality and sustaining its impactful presence for the foreseeable future. Currently, there are 2,000 employees contributing to the success and growth of Cummins at the RMEP facility.

Decarbonization is a growth opportunity for Cummins and the fuel-agnostic engine platform is a key component to help customers decarbonize today and make it easier to adopt alternative fuel types. These products are instrumental in supporting fleets on their journey toward Destination Zero by providing products that are economically viable, scalable and deliver the power, performance and durability with the evolving needs of customers.

Cummins is committed to improving the communities in which it operates to have a direct impact on the lives of its employees and the broader community. Over the past two years, RMEP employees have collectively devoted more than 20,000 hours to community engagement, forging meaningful alliances with educational institutions in surrounding districts. These partnerships extend to community colleges, public school systems, libraries, and various community organizations. RMEP takes pride in its collaboration with community partners, including the Boys &amp; Girls Club of the Tar River Region, United Way Tar River Region, Strategic Twin-Counties Education Partnership (STEP), Down East Partnership for Children, Carolina Gateway Partnership, and the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce.

“This investment is not just about engines; it's a testament to our unwavering commitment to the community and our vision for a sustainable and impactful future,” said Pinkston. “It means RMEP and Cummins are here to stay and we take pride in being the one of the largest employers in the tri-county area. Our role extends beyond the production floor; it's about cultivating a thriving community where everyone can succeed. As we invest in innovation and growth, we're also investing in the community that has been our home for four decades and counting."

About the fuel-agnostic platform  
The new fuel-agnostic engine platforms feature a series of engine versions that are derived from a common base engine, which means they have a high degree of parts commonality. Below the head gasket of each engine will largely have similar components and above the head gasket will have different components for different fuel types. Each engine version will operate using a different, single fuel. This new design approach will be applied across the company’s legendary engine portfolios including the B6.7 and the X15, and the new 10-liter portfolio called the X10.

About the facility  
Rocky Mount Engine Plant is 1.3M square foot manufacturing plant that employs over 2,000 people and produces mid-range engines for a multitude of markets. The plant has been in operation since 1983 when it started as a joint venture with Case named Consolidated Diesel Company. In 2008, Cummins bought out CASE and RMEP became a wholly owned Cummins entity. RMEP is the first Cummins plant to produce 5 million engines and has produced more than 1 million more engines than any other Cummins Engine facility.

In addition to the five millionth engine, RMEP is recently celebrated facility improvements and renovations, including its 3.62 megawatt (MW) solar farm, which was recognized with a 2023 Better Project Award. The recognition highlights projects in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Buildings/Better Plants initiative for accomplishments in implementing and promoting practices, principles and procedures around sustainable energy management.

Cummins implemented a water strategy in 2014 for its plants and facilities (including RMEP) and has been improving its stewardship ever since, achieving a 53 percent reduction in direct water use, adjusted by hours worked, in 2020 compared to a 2010 baseline. That reduction surpassed the company’s 2020 goal of 50 percent reduction compared to 2010, again adjusted for hours worked.

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>.

Global power technology leader Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) announced a $580 million project to drive economic and job growth in the Nash County community.

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