Andy Cohen, host & executive producer of "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen," and his dog, Wacha, team up to encourage pet owners to join Purina's #DogThanking movement.

SOURCE:Nestlé

DESCRIPTION:

ST. LOUIS, November 21, 2017 /3BL Media/ -- Millions of people and pets were affected by hurricanes which struck Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico earlier this year. To help raise funds to support hurricane victims and their pets, and to help celebrate the National Dog Show Presented by Purina® and the Thanksgiving holiday, Purina invites pet lovers across the United States to share what makes their pet the best through its annual #DogThanking initiative.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8193951-purina-andy-cohen-thanksgiving-day-dog-show-dogthanking/

Andy Cohen and his beagle fox-hound mix, Wacha, are helping to kick off this year's #DogThanking initiative.

"Pets truly enrich and awaken our hearts in many different ways, so it's important to celebrate what makes each one the best," said Cohen, host & executive producer of "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen."

"Wacha is my true companion and he is the best, especially when he falls asleep on my leg or gives me cuddles. We're thrilled to join Purina's #DogThanking initiative to help celebrate pets and how our lives are better together. I encourage pet owners to share their posts showing what makes their pet the best so we can raise funds for hurricane relief across the country."

GreaterGood.org will utilize the funds raised from the #DogThanking inititave to continue working with its many partners to support the logistics of delivering high-quality food and supplies to pets impacted by recent natural disasters.

"Over the past couple months, in conjunction with amazing partners like Purina that have donated both product and funds, we've been able to do so much to help people and pets affected by these terrible storms," said Liz Baker, executive director of GreaterGood.org. "But, our mission is far from complete—more help is needed. The #DogThanking initiative is a simple way pet lovers can get involved and celebrate their own pets, while helping to make a difference across the country."

So far in 2017, Purina has donated nearly $60,000 to GreaterGood.org to support victims of hurricanes and other natural disasters, and more than 350,000 pounds of pet food to support pets in the affected areas.

The 16th annual National Dog Show Presented by Purina will premiere on Thanksgiving Day on NBC at noon in all time zones. Watched by more than 20 million viewers annually, the show will bring canine competition and entertainment to America's viewers and crown one of America's great dogs as its 2017 champion. More than 2,000 dogs representing more than 175 breeds will vie for Best in Show honors.

NBC will present an encore of this year's National Dog Show Presented by Purina on Saturday, Nov. 25 (8-10 p.m. ET/PT).

Beloved TV personality John O'Hurley, best known as "J. Peterman" on Seinfeld, will serve as the show's co-host, along with veteran dog show analyst David Frei. NBC Sports correspondent Mary Carillo will join former U.S. Olympian figure skaters Johnny Weir and Tara Lipinski as National Dog Show correspondents.

For more information about the #DogThanking initiative, check out Purina on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Purina), Twitter (www.twitter.com/Purina) or Instagram (www.instagram.com/purina).

About Nestlé Purina PetCare
Nestlé Purina PetCare Company is a global leader in the pet care industry. Nestlé Purina PetCare promotes responsible pet care, community involvement and the positive bond between people and their pets. A premiere global manufacturer of pet products, Nestlé Purina PetCare is part of Swiss-based Nestlé S.A., a global leader in nutrition, health and wellness.

About Andy Cohen
Andy Cohen is the host and executive producer of "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen," Bravo's Late Night, interactive talk show. He also serves as executive producer of "The Real Housewives" franchise and hosts the network's highly rated reunion specials.

About GreaterGood.org
GreaterGood.org is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that works to improve the health and well-being of people, pets, and the planet. GreaterGood.org accomplishes this mission by partnering with charitable organizations and administering programs worldwide that address hunger and illness (particularly in women and children), promote education and literacy, feed and care for rescued animals in shelters and sanctuaries, and protect wildlife and restore the environment. A suite of internally funded Signature Programs staffed by experts in their respective fields furthers the mission of Giving Where It Matters.

Tweet me:Join @Purina to help raise funds for #HurricaneRelief by sharing what makes your pet the best http://bit.ly/2zWiUBL #DogThanking

Contact Info:

Bill Etling
Nestlé Purina
+1 (314) 982-4825
William.Etling@purina.nestle.com

Kate Mitchell
Burson-Marsteller
+1 (312) 596-3526
Katherine.Mitchell@bm.com

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Disaster Relief, hurricane relief, Purina, Andy Cohen, National Dog Show Presented by Purina®, #DogThanking, GreaterGood.org, Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, Nestlé Purina PetCare

SOURCE:Scotiabank

DESCRIPTION:

In celebration of World Prematurity Day on November 17, Scotiabank announced a donation of $500,000 in support of The Ottawa Hospital’s new “Scotiabank Supportive Care Program” for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Carole Chapdelaine, Frank Bilodeau were on-hand to mark the occasion.

Scotiabank is incredibly proud of our long-standing partnership with The Ottawa Hospital through our support of the development of the NICU, which gives prematurely born babies the best chance at surviving, thriving and reaching their infinite potential. To learn more, visit The Ottawa Hospital Foundation website.

Learn more about CSR at Scotiabank

Tweet me:.@OttawaHospital: "Thank you @scotiabank for your incredible donation of $500,000 for the new “Scotiabank Supportive Care Program” to improve the care of preemies in our NICU" #SupportTOH

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, World Prematurity Day, Scotiabank, Canada, Supportive Care Program

SOURCE:Points of Light

DESCRIPTION:

Sophie Bernstein always wanted to grow her own garden. At 12 years old, she was looking for a meaningful project to complete for her bat mitzvah – something that would serve a larger purpose and help the community. Sophie realized she had the perfect opportunity to start her garden, while also benefitting others by donating the crops that her garden produced to the local food bank. She had no idea where that project would take her.

After delivering her first harvest of fruits and vegetables to the food bank, Sophie was surprised by the absence of produce available to shoppers. Many of the shelves were stocked with items like potato chips, candy and sodas. Sophie took some time to educate herself on the prevalence of hunger and obesity in her home state of Missouri—finding that is the state has a high rate of childhood and adult obesity, as well as a high rate of families that have a hard time providing healthy options for their children. She realized she could make a difference by promoting healthier choices at food banks.

Since starting the garden in 2012, Sophie’s efforts have broadened exponentially. What started as one garden eventually grew into an entire movement, called Grow Healthy, which now includes 35 gardens and more than 750 volunteers.

Read the full story on the Points of Light blog.

Tweet me:With the @_GrowHealthy garden initiative, teen Sophie Bernstein is tackling hunger and obesity in Missouri: http://bit.ly/2zX03GQ #DailyPointofLight

KEYWORDS: Awards, Ratings & Rankings, Diversity & Inclusion, Points of Light, Daily Point of Light

SOURCE:21st Century Fox

DESCRIPTION:

21st Century Fox and National Geographic took home top honors at the second annual Shorty Social Good Awards on November 15 for developing social media campaigns that engage audiences on important social issues and empower them to take action. The winning campaigns included 21CF’s contest to award free screenings of Hidden Figures to communities across America, as well as initiatives from Nat Geo to encourage women in STEM, expand access to clean water, and inspire the genius in each of us. The Shorty Social Good Awards launched in 2016 to celebrate the power of digital storytelling tools to raise awareness and make change.

The full list of awards for 21CF businesses is as follows:​

• Environment & Sustainability: National Geographic for Chasing Genius (winner)
• Environment & Sustainability: National Geographic, Stella Artois and Mediacom for World Water Month (gold)
• Contest or Promotion: 21CF, AMC Theatres for Hidden Figures National Screening Contest (silver)
• Live Streaming Video: National Geographic, Microsoft for #MakeWhatsNext (winner)

The Hidden Figures national screening series aimed to make the film available to communities where it might have the strongest impact. The film tells the “untold” story of three African American female NASA mathematicians during the Space Race of the 1960's, and it has a particular resonance for young women and women of color looking to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). 21CF invited schools, community groups, and nonprofits around the country to apply for free screenings, and distributed 3,500 free tickets throughout the spring season as a result.  

In May, National Geographic launched the Chasing Genius digital community, inspired by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s Genius miniseries on the channel about Albert Einstein. Members of the community, which grew to more than 30,000 users over the summer, submitted videos detailing big ideas that could address sustainability, global health, and world hunger. The site received more than 3,000 videos, generated 230 million impressions, and sparked 3.2 million social conversations. Four winners were selected and each awarded $25,000 to develop their projects.

The Shorty Awards also recognized National Geographic for two of its partnership campaigns. Its #MakeWhatsNext campaign, a collaboration with Microsoft, won the Live Streaming Video category and aimed to recruit more young women to the STEM fields. Leading female National Geographic Explorers took part in the campaign, which celebrated International Women’s Day and included six live events in Microsoft stores across the U.S. National Geographic also partnered with Stella Artois for a water conservation campaign centered around World Water Day.

Keep reading at impact.21CF.com. 

Tweet me:Fox and National Geographic win Shorty Social Good Awards for #social media campaigns that make a difference: http://bit.ly/2zTm21x @21CF_Impact @shortyawards

KEYWORDS: Media & Communications, Diversity & Inclusion, 21st century fox, National Geographic, HIDDEN FIGURES, STEM, women, chasing genius, water, Microsoft

SOURCE:Albertsons Companies

DESCRIPTION:

Chance, fresh off his stint hosting “Saturday Night Live” over the weekend, was at Michele Clark Magnet High School with President of Jewel-Osco Doug Cygan, who presented Chance’s Social Works organization with a $1 million check to benefit CPS. 

Cygan said the check was the largest given out in Jewel-Osco history. The company, he said, wanted to donate to a charity it felt supported giving back to the community and supporting Chicago’s youth.

“I hope in this crowd there’s the next president of Jewel-Osco,” Cygan said.

Continue reading more on NBC Chicago

Learn more about some additional philanthropic initiatives Jewel-Osco has contributed to in our Annual Sustainability Update.

Tweet me:.@jewelosco donated $1M to @SocialWorks_Chi with the help of @chancetherapper to benefit Chicago Public Schools http://bit.ly/2z8Ds6F

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Community Development, Jewel-Osco, Albertsons Companies

By Leon Kaye

SOURCE:TriplePundit

DESCRIPTION:

The idea of access to artificial intelligence (often referred to as “AI” for short) for all is still at a nascent stage. Nevertheless, its potential is limitless – from refugee assistance, to helping students at risk of not completing school, to shortening the response time for teens who are in a personal crisis. During the recent Dreamforce conference in San Francisco, several nonprofit leaders discussed how the use of artificial intelligence and other technologies, such as machine learning, can dramatically improve lives – including those of many who live in the most underserved communities.

Some of those citizens now benefiting from artificial intelligence include college and university students in Texas. College Forward, based in Austin, offers coaching and mentoring programs to help at-risk students continue their success in higher education so that they can eventually embark on a successful career. The NGO has been able to scale its programs in part through the use of a Salesforce artificial intelligence platform, Einstein, to build more sophisticated and proactive coaching services to first-generation university students across Texas and beyond.

As is the case with more businesses and non-profits, College Forward had been migrating its data from tools such as spreadsheets to cloud computing. Austin Buchan, the nonprofit’s CEO noted, noted the organization faced more challenges as demands for its services grew. “Historically, we only really managed 100-to-one coaching services to students,” he told a Dreamforce audience earlier this month. “That obviously had some extreme limits on our ability to scale.”

With as many as 1.7 million higher education students in the Lone Star State – many of them first-generation college students – artificial intelligence is integral to College Forward as it identifies and reaches out to students who may be at risk due to personal, financial, or academic reasons. The technology helps College Forward’s staff drives its mission to make this coaching model, CoPilot, much more efficient and valuable.

“Serving 10,000 students is fantastic, but that is still not nearly addressing all the needs,” explained Buchan. “We think that AI can democratize technology and allow nonprofits to push the boundaries of what we thought was possible.”

Since its launch in 2010, over 30 organizations in the U.S. and two other countries have started to use the CoPilot platform, which College Forward says has benefited more than 240,000 students.

Another NGO, which bills itself as a technology nonprofit accelerator, is bullish about now artificial intelligence can improve young lives in different ways apart from academia.

Fast Forward of San Francisco has placed its chips on betting that that despite the fears many have about artificial intelligence, it can actually accelerate social change for the better in fields such as healthcare, human rights, energy, and of course, education. “We’ve seen some really exciting developments in AI,” said Shannon Farley, Fast Forward’s co-founder and executive director, “in everything from chatbots to machine learning and natural language processing.”

At Dreamforce, Farley touted various ways in which artificial intelligence can transform lives. WattTime, for example, is promising to disrupt the energy sector by giving consumers the technology to actually choose the types of power plants they want to electrify their homes and even devices. The subsidiary of the Rocky Mountain Institute has developed software that can be installed on any internet-connected device, allowing them to automatically sync the times at which they need to store or run on electricity to the exact moments renewable are available.

WattTime is just one example of how nonprofits, in Farley’s words, are “creating AI apps for the greater good.”

Crisis Text Line is another NGO that has benefited from Fast Forward’s various programs. The texting platform provides 24/7 support to people who find themselves at times of crisis. The service describes itself as “born from the rib” of DoSomething.org and since 2013, it has grown rapidly and is now used in all 295 U.S. area codes.

The platform has harnessed machine learning so it can identify the terms that can help escalate calls for help to its volunteers. To that end, Crisis Text Line’s service has learned that the term “ibuprofen” is 16 times more likely to predict the need for emergency aid than the word “suicide.” Due to the use of artificial intelligence, such messages that include the word “ibuprofen” are then prioritized in the queue so that the service’s volunteers can assist those in need faster.

Another way in which artificial intelligence can help with accelerating change for the better is on the social justice front. Raheem.ai, a chatbot that works on Facebook Messenger, allows the public to rate police interactions. Tested this year in Berkeley, California, Raheem asks users to answer basic questions about their experience with policing, and then funnels that information back to local precincts. Farley told a Dreamforce audience that during a three-month pilot testing Raheem earlier this year, twice as many reports were made as were collected during the entire previous year. The results promise greater transparency, more agile policing and a closer bond between local citizens and the law enforcement community.

Artificial intelligence will long conjure all kinds of images and scenarios – for nonprofits, one of the bugaboos is its cost. But this is where Farley and Buchan insist that technology professionals can step when they reach a point in their lives and careers where they want to feel as if they are making a contribution to society. “Tech workers are ready to give back, and they have a set of expensive skills that can benefit NGOs,” said Farley.

The key, however, is for nonprofits to take a step back and sort out how artificial intelligence can boost an organization’s goals in the first place. “Look at your industry and your vertical when looking at how AI can help your org’s mission,” added Buchan.

As technology becomes even more important to how NGOs can deliver services and accomplish their missions, Farley insisted that forward-thinking organizations will need to have a technology presence on their boards. In fact, they should go even further: “NGOs should not only have a tech person on their boards, but a tech advisory board as well,” she said as she wrapped her talk during Dreamforce.

Image credit: Raheem.ai/Facebook;

Tweet me:"#AI can democratize #tech and allow #nonprofits to push the boundaries of what we thought was possible" http://bit.ly/2zcDPgh via @TriplePundit @LeonKaye

KEYWORDS: Innovation & Technology, Events, Media & Communications, Salesforce.org, Dreamforce, AI, Artificial Intelligence, triplepundit

SOURCE:AEG

DESCRIPTION:

LOS ANGELES, November 22, 2017 /3BL Media/ -- Throughout November, AEG and its affiliates have teamed up with various nonprofit organizations to provide more than 2,000 Thanksgiving meals throughout the Los Angeles community as part of AEG’s Season of Giving, a company initiative that encourages AEG employees to engage in charitable activities and to HOPE. ACT. GIVE. throughout their local communities.

Earlier this week, AEG’s StubHub Center Foundation and the LA Galaxy Foundation kicked off the Thanksgiving festivities with the 14th Annual Thanksgiving Foundations’ Feast at StubHub Center’s American Express Stadium Club on Nov. 20. Throughout the event, staff and LA Galaxy players served Thanksgiving meals to 250 local children families in need from Los Angeles Children and Family Services, The Salvation Army Red Shield, Koinonia Family Services, El Nido Family Services, Children’s Institute Inc., Gage Middle School and Elizabeth Learning Center.

On Nov. 22, AEG’s LA Galaxy Foundation, along with Herbalife Nutrition and South Central Los Angeles based non-profit, A Place Called Home (APCH), will host its annual Thanksgiving event and serve dinner to 600 South Central Los Angeles families. The annual Thanksgiving event will mark the fourth-straight year that the LA Galaxy have teamed up with Herbalife Nutrition to provide Thanksgiving meals at A Place Called Home.

On Thanksgiving Day, L.A. LIVE’s The Novo by Microsoft will host its 6th Annual Thanksgiving Celebration and serve a full course Thanksgiving meal catered by Wolfgang Puck Catering to more than 1,200 U.S. Veterans and families from the neighborhoods adjacent to L.A. LIVE from participating nonprofit organizations.

###

ABOUT AEG

Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. With offices on five continents, AEG operates in the following business segments: AEG Facilities, which is affiliated with or owns, manages or consults with more than 150 preeminent arenas, stadiums, theaters, clubs and convention centers around the world including The O2 Arena, the Sprint Center and the Mercedes-Benz Arenas; AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals; AEG Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE; AEG Sports, which is the world's largest operator of sports franchises and high-profile sporting events; and AEG Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 100 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at www.aegworldwide.com.

Media Contacts
Michael Roth                                                        
(213) 742-7155                                                    
mroth@aegworldwide.com
                              
Cassandra Zebisch
(213) 763-7712
czebisch@aegworldwide.com 

Tweet me:.@AEGWorldwide to serve more than 2,000 #Thanksgiving meals throughout #LosAngeles! http://bit.ly/2AkVIxE

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Responsible Business & Employee Engagement, Thanksgiving, StubHub Center, L.A. LIVE, LA Galaxy Foundadtion, Season of Giving, AEG, A Place Called Home, The Novo by Microsoft, The Salvation Army Red Shield, Los Angeles Children and Family Services, Wolfgang Puck Catering

ASPCA and Subaru celebrate 10-year partnership impacting more than 40,000 animals across the country

SOURCE:Subaru of America

DESCRIPTION:

NEW YORK – November 22, 2017 /3BL Media/ – On Friday, November 24, the ASPCA is celebrating its 7th Annual Cat Friday adoption event for the nearly 100 cats and kittens currently available for adoption at the ASPCA Adoption Center. For the first time in its 10-year partnership, the ASPCA will be hosting Cat Friday as a Subaru Share the Love fee-waived adoption event, in support of the ASPCA and the automaker’s longstanding commitment to help animals across the country.

As part of the 2017 Subaru Share the Love event, the ASPCA has provided grant funding to 90 animal welfare organizations across 36 states to support Share the Love fee-waived pet adoption events they co-host with their local Subaru retailer partners. Last year, the ASPCA’s participation in the Share the Love event resulted in a donation from Subaru of more than $3.2 million. Since 2008, Subaru has donated over $16.5 million to the ASPCA. This helped support over 1,200 adoption events and impacted the rescue, transport, and adoption of nearly 40,000 animals nationwide.

“Over the past ten years, our partnership with Subaru and Share the Love has provided help and homes for tens of thousands of animals in need,” said Matt Bershadker, president and CEO of the ASPCA. “We are grateful for Subaru’s sustained commitment to pets and communities, and thank all of the participating animal shelters for their dedication and collaboration.”

In addition to Share the Love, Subaru has supported the ASPCA’s work including adoption, spay/neuter, micro-chipping, and transport efforts throughout a variety of programs.

During the 2017 Subaru Loves Pets initiative in October, the ASPCA provided grant funding to 110 animal welfare organizations across 35 states and Washington, D.C. to host fee-waived adoption events in partnership with their local Subaru retailers, resulting in more than 2,900 adoptions. As part of the ASPCA & Subaru Loves Pets Rescue Ride grant program, the ASPCA has provided more than $500K in grant funding over the past four years to support animal transports, saving more than 20,000 animals as of 2016. Additionally, the Subaru VIP Program for ASPCA Guardians and Founders donates $100 to the ASPCA for every new vehicle purchased or leased through the VIP Program.

For more information on the ASPCA and Subaru partnership, visit www.aspca.org/subaru.

During this year’s Share the Love event, running through January 2, 2018, Subaru of America will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicle purchased or leased to the customer’s choice of the four national charities. In addition, participating Subaru retailers can select one or two hometown charities from their local community in which customers can direct their support. To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the event, Subaru hopes to exceed a grand total of $115 million donated to charity since the creation of Share the Love.

For more information on the Subaru Share the Love event, visit www.aspca.org/ShareTheLove and follow #aspcaSTL.

About the ASPCA^®

Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 620 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company’s vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA has donated more than $120 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged more than 40,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do.

For additional information, visit media.subaru.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Media Contacts

Danielle Arnold, 646-647-4694, danielle.arnold@aspca.org

Diane Anton, 856-488-5093, danton@subaru.com

Tweet me:.@ASPCA and @subaru_usa to host 7th annual #CatFriday fee-waived adoption event on 11/24 http://bit.ly/2AnyIOM #ShareTheLove #SubaruLovesPets

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Events, Media & Communications, Subaru Share the Love, ASPCA, Cat Friday, Cat Adoption, subaru

By: Gerri Mason-Hall

SOURCE:Sodexo, Inc.

DESCRIPTION:

Humbled and grateful. These are the two words – and feelings – that keep coming to me as I reflect on my experience with the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation. And it’s these words that seem the best description of how I’m feeling this Thanksgiving as I step into my new role as President of the Foundation.

I recall learning about hunger for the first time as my elementary school classmates and I collected coins to help “the starving children in Africa and India.” Then I became more aware of the need in my own community through my mother who, for years, prepared a weekly casserole for So Others Might Eat (SOME) in Washington, D.C. Previous Foundation leaders, Steve Brady and Bob Stern, helped me understand that children in many communities across the U.S. face similar challenges in having enough healthy food every day so that they can learn, play and thrive.

I’m overwhelmed, and humbled, when I think about what it takes to end childhood hunger, and what small part I can play. And then I’m grateful for the network of nonprofit partners, vendors, youth leaders and employees who’ve joined us in this effort because I know that childhood hunger is a problem too big for one organization to solve alone.

I’m grateful for the progress we’ve made since my elementary school days, especially on ending childhood hunger in the U.S. And with one in six children in the United States still hungry, we can’t rest on the good we’ve done so far. That’s why as Foundation president I will build on the legacy and lessons of the leaders before me to work smarter – and harder – to end childhood hunger. I’m especially excited about our commitment to address the root causes of hunger because it’s not enough to feed a hungry child today if they’re still at risk of being hungry again tomorrow.

At our annual dinner in June, I was honored to share the stage with our Heroes of Everyday Life and youth leaders – people who dedicate time and talent to ending hunger in their communities. I’m grateful to work for a company that invests in and celebrates their work – and that provides all of us opportunities to act on their inspiration. I believe that together we can end childhood hunger. And as I consider what I’m grateful for this Thanksgiving, I put the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation and my colleagues who contribute their time, talent and treasure to it at the top of my list.

Are you inspired to join the effort to end childhood hunger in the U.S? Visit http://us.stop-hunger.org to learn how you can help.

Tweet me:On #Thanksgiving, 1 in 6 Children Wonder if They Are Going to Eat @StopHungerUSA #StopHunger https://goo.gl/BMoGLY

KEYWORDS: Social Impact & Volunteering, Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, STOP Hunger, childhood hunger, Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation, Thanksgiving, heroes of everyday life

Under Mason Hall’s leadership, Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation will focus on programs that help end hunger today and prevent hunger tomorrow

SOURCE:Sodexo, Inc.

DESCRIPTION:

GAITHERSBURG, Md., November 22, 2017 /3BL Media/— Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation announced that Gerri Mason Hall, senior vice president of human resources services, Sodexo North America, became the new Chair on September 1. As Chair, Mason Hall will lead the Foundation’s efforts to mobilize partners that are developing long-term solutions to end childhood hunger in America based on the belief that no child should be hungry today or risk being hungry again tomorrow.

Mason Hall is a member of Sodexo’s North America Regional Leadership Committee. She is also a member of Sodexo Women's International Forum for Talent (SWIfT), the Executive Leadership Council, board member of UNCF and the Chair of the Board of Directors for Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation. The Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation is an independent charitable organization founded in 1999 to ensure that every child in the United States grows up with dependable access to enough nutritious food to enable them to lead a healthy, productive life.

“It wasn’t until I joined Sodexo that I truly understood childhood hunger in America and its impact on children’s health, education and future success,” explained Mason Hall.  “With one in six children in the United States still hungry, all children deserve access to sufficient healthy food every day so that they can learn, play and thrive.”

In a Thanksgiving inspired Blog post, On Thanksgiving, 1 in 6 Children Wonder if They Are Going to Eat, Mason Hall explores why her childhood and professional experiences make her humbled and grateful.

Childhood hunger is a problem too big for one organization to solve alone. Sodexo and the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation mobilize experts, innovators, volunteers and donors to feed children in the United States today, and to advocate for policies that ensure no child is hungry again tomorrow. Sodexo’s hunger-fighting team includes employees, clients, customers, vendors, youth leaders and carefully selected nonprofits.  Stop Hunger is a global network of nonprofit organizations working with nearly 1,200 nonprofits in 41 countries.

To learn more about childhood hunger or explore a partnership with Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation, visit www.HelpStopHunger.org.

-XXX-

About Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation:

Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, was created with the mission to ensure that every child in the United States grows up with dependable access to enough nutritious food to enable them to lead a healthy, productive life. Sodexo, Inc. funds all administrative costs for Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation to ensure that all money raised helps those in need. Since its inception, the Foundation has granted nearly $30 million to alleviate child hunger.

About Sodexo USA

Sodexo USA is an American business that is part of a global, Fortune 500 company with a presence in 80 countries. Delivering more than 100 services across North America that enhance organizational performance, contribute to local communities and improve quality of life, Sodexo is a leading provider of sustainable, integrated facilities management and food service operations. It employs 123,000 Americans at 12,500 sites across the country and indirectly supports tens of thousands of additional U.S. jobs through its annual purchases of $9.2 billion in goods and services from small to large American businesses. In support of local communities across the U.S., the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation has contributed close to $30 million over the past 20 years to help feed children in America impacted by hunger.  To learn more about Sodexo, visit SodexoInsights.com and connect with us on Facebook and @SodexoUSA on Twitter.

Contact: Enrico Dinges, Sodexo, Inc., 301-987-4393, enrico.dinges@sodexo.com

Tweet me:.@StopHungerUSA Names @SodexoUSA SVP Gerri Mason Hall as New Chair http://bit.ly/2zdTxb6

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Diversity & Inclusion, Geri Mason Hall, Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation

SOURCE:Subaru of America

DESCRIPTION:

In honor of Giving Tuesday, a globally celebrated day of giving, the ASPCA is teaming up with Animal Planet and Subaru of America, Inc. to host an all-day Facebook Live Telethon.

On November 28, tune into the ASPCA’s Facebook channel for nine exciting and heartwarming segments that will give you a closer look at how we’re changing the lives of animals everywhere with the help of friends like you. Our Giving Hope Live-a-thon will include pet care advice from ASPCA experts, a look into our Adoption Center and Kitten Nursery programs, adorable pets, puppy playtime and surprise celebrity guests and social media stars. Some of our special guests include renowned actress Edie Falco, host of My Big Fat Pet Makeover on Animal Planet, Travis Bronson, and America's favorite Puppy Bowl "Rufferee," Dan Schachner, but you never know who might show up!

These fun video segments not only give you an opportunity to interact with the ASPCA; they also allow you to help raise critical funds for animals in need across the U.S.—just in time for the holiday season. 

Throughout the day, you’ll be able to see the results of the ASPCA Giving Hope Live-a-thon campaign in real time—and you’ll see real examples of your support in action, changing animals’ lives. To help you make the most of your contribution to help animals, our friends at Subaru will double the impact of your gift and match every donation made through the Giving Hope Live-a-thon on November 28—up to a total match of $25,000!

So don’t miss out on the ASPCA Giving Hope Live-a-thon! Tune in on Giving Tuesday 2017 to see which of your favorite celebrities and social media pets might show up and help us continue to help at-risk animals year-round. It is sure to be a day you won’t want to miss!

Tweet me:.@ASPCA teams up with @subaru_usa to host first-ever Facebook Live-a-Thon for #GivingTuesday http://bit.ly/2AnGZ5b #ASPCAGivingHope #SubaruLovesPets #PetAdoption

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Events, Media & Communications, subaru, ASPCA, giving tuesday, Share the Love, animal planet

SOURCE:Keep America Beautiful

DESCRIPTION:

Keep North Charleston Beautiful (KNCB) installed a much-needed handicap and wheelchair accessible pathway and seating area in the Park Circle Butterfly Garden this fall, thanks to a 2017 Keep America Beautiful/Lowe's Community Partners Grant.

The garden is located right in the heart of North Charleston, North Carolina, on the grounds of the Felix C. Davis Community Center in the center of Park Circle. The garden is highly utilized by the entire community as a demonstration and educational garden.

After the installation of the pathway, KNCB volunteers installed additional landscaping and beneficial plants in the areas around the pathway. Many of these plants were installed by preschool students who visited the garden during KNCB’s annual field trips in October of each year. The students installed 300 milkweed and lantana plants. The project culminated with KNCB’s annual Day of Caring event on Nov. 17, 2017.

Continue reading here.

Tweet me:#FF @kabtweet Affiliate Stories: @kncbsc #volunteers upgrade butterfly garden/park w/ @Lowes grant. #DoBeautifulThings http://bit.ly/2zhakKg

Contact Info:

Mike Rosen
Keep America Beautiful
+1 (203) 659-3008
mrosen@kab.org
http://www.twitter.com/kabtweet
http://www.facebook.com/keepamericabeautiful
http://www.instagram.com/keepamericabeautiful
http://www.youtube.com/kabnetwork

Larry Kaufman
Keep America Beautiful
+1 (203) 659-3014
lkaufman@kab.org

KEYWORDS: Social Impact & Volunteering, Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Keep America Beautiful, Keep North Charleston Beautiful, Lowe's Community Partners Grant, Park Circle Butterfly Garden

Customers can create healthier tomorrows for children simply by paying their electric bill.

SOURCE:NRG Energy

DESCRIPTION:

NRG today formally unveiled a new partnership with Boston Children’s Hospital as part of its Choose to Give program, which allows NRG customers to support local nonprofits through their electricity plan.

Under this plan, NRG contributes $50 to Boston Children’s Hospital for every customer that enrolls, approximately one month after enrollment. In addition, NRG will contribute one percent of each customer’s electricity supply charges to Boston Children’s Hospital annually for as long as the customer remains on the plan. Besides helping our children’s health, those who enroll will also get the peace of mind that comes with locking in a predictable electricity supply price for 12 months.

Boston Children’s Hospital, one of the leading pediatric hospitals in the U.S., is the first nonprofit in Massachusetts to partner in the program and to receive contributions from NRG.

“We are so grateful for the generosity of NRG,” said Carola Cadley, Vice President, Corporate Development and Special Events, Boston Children’s Hospital Trust. “Every dollar contributed through their program has 100% impact, furthering the hospital’s mission to treat all children, no matter what condition they face.”

“Boston Children’s Hospital is absolutely vital to the health and well-being of children and families across the region and beyond,” said Mike Starck, NRG general manager and Bostonnative. “We are proud to offer our customers a simple way to support the great work done by the doctors, nurses, and staff at Boston Children’s Hospital.”

The Choose to Give program first launched in 2016 to Pennsylvania customers, benefiting several regional nonprofits including Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Customers interested in learning more about the Boston Children’s Hospital plan or to enroll can visit nrghomepower.com/bch. Terms and conditions, including an early cancel fee, apply.

About Boston Children’s Hospital

Boston Children’s Hospital is home to the world’s largest research enterprise based at a pediatric medical center, where its discoveries have benefited both children and adults since 1869. More than 1,100 scientists, including seven members of the National Academy of Sciences, 11 members of the Institute of Medicine and 10 members of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute comprise Boston Children’s research community. Founded as a 20-bed hospital for children, Boston Children’s today is a 415-bed comprehensive center for pediatric and adolescent health care. Boston Children’s is also the primary pediatric teaching affiliate ofHarvard Medical School.

For more, visit our Vector and Thriving blogs and follow us on our social media channels: @BostonChildrens, @BCH_Innovation, Facebook and YouTube.

About NRG

NRG is the leading integrated power company in the U.S., built on the strength of our diverse competitive electric generation portfolio and leading retail electricity platform. A Fortune 500 company, NRG creates value through best in class operations, reliable and efficient electric generation, and a retail platform serving nearly three million residential and commercial customers throughout the country. NRG’s Retail East division is a leading consumer energy solutions provider serving electricity and natural gas customers in nine states and the District of Columbia and implements sustainable solutions for producing and managing energy, develops smarter energy choices and delivers exceptional service. For more information, please visit picknrg.com. Engage with us on Facebook at facebook.com/pickNRG and Twitter at @pickNRG.

Contact:
Dave Schrader, 267-295-5768
david.schrader@nrg.com

Tweet me:.@NRGEnergy Launches ‘Choose to Give’ Plan Benefiting @BostonChildrens Hospital http://bit.ly/2gMtZdw

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Energy, NRG Energy, Boston Children's Hospital

SOURCE:MilliporeSigma

DESCRIPTION:

There’s a mobile shipping container traveling around the country getting kids excited about science.

“This is Millipore Sigma’s Curiosity Cube,” Rebecca Dowd, curiosity cube coordinator, said. “It’s a retrofitted shipping container that’s been turned into a mobile science lab […] to do hands on science experiments with students.”

It’s all a part of Millipore Sigma’s goal of introducing kids to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Read the full article on Montgomery Community Media.

Tweet me:.@MilliporeSigma’s #CuriosityCube recently helped to #SPARKCuriosity through hands-on #science in #Germantown, Maryland. Read more on @MyMCMedia: http://bit.ly/2zWcqDg

KEYWORDS: Education, Improving Education Quality, Curiosity Cube, Mobile science lab, Corporate Social Responsibility, MilliporeSigma, science education, Montgomery Community Media

by Shannon Lappin Davies, Communications Manager, Cisco Community Relations

SOURCE:Cisco Systems Inc.

DESCRIPTION:

Once again, the spirit of the giving season is upon us. The first Tuesday after the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday is now celebrated globally as #GivingTuesday. This is truly a special day for doing good and helping nonprofits around the world through the power of social media, technology, and collaboration.

#GivingTuesday continues this tradition in its sixth year, and at Cisco, we believe that through the power of teams, technology and collaboration, we can multiply our impact to benefit the causes our employees care about.

As part of our Be the Bridge: Annual Giving Campaign, we are launching a 1-day Twitter challenge to recognize and highlight the exemplary work of nearly 20 nonprofit partners in communities around the world.

Both our employees and social media teams will be able to follow along on social channels and proactively “be the bridge” in recognition of the causes of their choice. While we traditionally highlight Be the Bridge during the holiday season, we celebrate a culture of inclusiveness year-round at Cisco, where employees can choose to participate in our giving and matching gifts program to support the causes they care about.

Our Be the Bridge campaign is just one reminder of the many year-round opportunities to give back, and it’s a key component of our Moments that Matter—when all Cisco employees can truly make a difference.

Moving from East to West, we are beginning the #GivingTuesday Twitter challenge in China and ending the day in the U.S; sending Tweets acknowledging donations from employees around the world throughout the day.

For every retweet of the original country-level tweet we post on the @CiscoCitizen handle, we’ll donate an additional US$1 to identified organizations, up to US$10,000 (aggregate total contribution for all participating organizations). The #GivingTuesday retweet challenge closes at 5:00 p.m. local time in all markets.

Below are the nonprofits our global Cisco Citizen Network volunteers have selected in the areas where Cisco has a presence and employee base. These selections were made based on past donation trends and a desire to highlight the excellent work happening in these worldwide communities:

Now through the end of December—and for that matter, year-round—we hope to inspire thousands of employees globally to support their causes of choice through donations and matching funds in our Be the Bridge Campaign.

Tweet me:Be a part of @CiscoCitizen's #GivingTuesday Twitter Challenge to raise money for #nonprofits around the world! http://bit.ly/2k6HPwp @CiscoCSR #BeTheBridge #WeAreCisco

KEYWORDS: Responsible Business & Employee Engagement, Events, Media & Communications, cisco csr, Be the Bridge, we are cisco, giving tuesday

Aflac and Habitat for Humanity: Built on Community

SOURCE:Aflac

DESCRIPTION:

Since 2007, more than 2,100 members of Aflac’s Columbus, Georgia, team have strapped on hardhats and tool belts with Habitat for Humanity. The program is so popular that Aflac holds lotteries to determine which employees will get the chance to participate. This year, 175 employees built Aflac’s 11th Habitat house, to the great delight of resident Marion Dantzler. Meanwhile, 50 employees at Aflac’s Columbia, South Carolina, location worked alongside new Habitat for Humanity homeowners during a five-day renovation project, completing the team’s second home construction.

Learn more about how Aflac is doing good by giving back 

Tweet me:.@Aflac employees have built or renovated 27 #HabitatForHumanity houses since 2007 http://bit.ly/2zurSmw @Habitat_org

KEYWORDS: Responsible Business & Employee Engagement, Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Aflac, Habitat for Humanity

SOURCE:America's Charities

DESCRIPTION:

#GivingTuesday is November 28th, and we have something super in store for 2017’s global day of giving. This year, we’ll harness the power of our GKTW Family and social media to make our greatest impact to date.

That’s where you come in. We’re calling on you and your superpowers to be a hero for the brave kids we serve. We need your help to inspire others to suit up and join us as superheroes!

Only you can share your unique story with your network of change-makers. But we don’t expect you to do this alone. Attached, you’ll find our super tools:

• Fast facts/social media about #GivingTuesday
• Sized photos for all social media platforms
• Super hero masks to print and wear on #GivingTuesday

With your help, we’re confident that we’ll make a stand and save the day on #GivingTuesday!

Be an Advocate — Activate Your Community — Save the World

Tweet me:.@AmerCharities: Build a Team — Be a Hero. Support @GKTWVillage this #GivingTuesday #GiveGKTW #GKTWVillage http://bit.ly/2zJOQKp

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Responsible Business & Employee Engagement, America’s Charities, workplace giving, employee giving, Corporate Social Responsibility, charity vetting, payroll deduction giving, Fundraising, GKTW, GivingTuesday

SOURCE:JetBlue Airways

DESCRIPTION:

JetBlue is celebrating November (aka Philanthrophy Month) as JetBlue For Good Month. Service is part of our DNA at JetBlue. JetBlue For Good Month celebrates all the ways we give back year-round. Earlier this month, we asked our customers to "Check-In For Good."  In honor of #GivingTuesday, the international day of giving kicking off the holiday season, we’re offering even more opportunities for customers and crewmembers to get on board to bring our mission of Inspiring Humanity^® to life.  In fact, several lucky customers are in Houston and Jamaica today on volunteer trips.

• #CheckInForGood to Help Houston Public Libraries, Nov. 27-29, 2017

Like many in Texas, the Houston Public Library (HPL) is still reeling from the impact of Hurricane Harvey. Seven branches remain closed due to storm damage, leaving these communities without access to the libraries’ vital programs, services and books resources.

Building on JetBlue’s signature Soar with Reading literacy program, designed to inspire and encourage kids' imaginations to take flight through reading, volunteers on this trip will check in with elementary schools in communities which have been impacted by Harvey, have low literacy rates and where their libraries are still closed. While the Mobile Express, HPL’s library-on-wheels hits the road to distribute free books, volunteers will help operate “pop-up” libraries and host reading events, with books donated in partnership with Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing. JetBlue will also bring its innovative free book vending, powered by IVS, to Houston to distribute 25,000 children’s books throughout the remainder of the year.

• #CheckInForGood to Help the Sandals Foundation’s Local Caribbean Community Efforts- Jamaica, Nov. 27-29, 2017

The Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, is committed to improving the lives of its local communities, supporting schools, facilities and centers across eight islands in the Caribbean.

The Eltham Community Centre serves the rural area surrounding Ocho Rios region. Here, neighbors can gather for recreational activities and informative workshops, receive mentorship and gain access to free mental and dental care as well as spay and neuter services for animal clinics. Volunteers on this trip will help paint, renovate and restore The Centre with upgrades to ensure it can continue to be a safe, healthy and inspiring space for both the young and elderly.

Our commitment to doing good doesn’t expire, just like our TrueBlue points. In addition to JetBlue For Good Month, JetBlue lives its mission of Inspiring Humanity all year long. Some of our recent philanthropic initiatives include those in the infographic above.

JetBlue For Good is JetBlue’s platform for social impact and corporate responsibility. Giving back is part of JetBlue’s DNA and is core to its mission of Inspiring Humanity. Centered around volunteerism and service, JetBlue For Good focuses on the areas that are most important to the airline’s customers and crewmembers - community, youth and education and the environment. Combining JetBlue’s corporate efforts with its customers’ and crewmembers’ passions, the common theme is Good – JetBlue For Good. Join the #JetBlueForGood conversation on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, check for regular updates and get involved.

For more information about causes supported by JetBlue customers and crewmembers, or to learn more about JetBlue For Good, visit jetblueforgood.com.

Tweet me:In honor of #GivingTuesday, @JetBlue is offering even more opportunities for customers and crewmembers to make a difference http://bit.ly/2BuOcOc #JetBlueForGood

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Jetblue, jetblue for good, giving tuesday, Check in For Good, The Sandals Foundation, Houston Public Libraries, inspiring humanity

SOURCE:America's Charities

DESCRIPTION:

This #GivingTuesday Orbis encourages supporters to give the gift of sight by participating in our matching challenge. One of our generous donors has agreed to match all #GivingTuesday donations up to $25,000. Funds will support our vision restoring work in places like Bangladesh, where four-year-old Halima had two cataracts removed by an Orbis-trained surgeon.

Read more about Halima’s story on our website here.

Orbis will also be participating in Blackbaud’s partnership with NASDAQ on #GivingTuesday. Orbis will assist in ringing the NASDAQ bell next Tuesday morning, an image of Halima will appear on the NASDAQ tower, and Orbis will participate in a Facebook Live panel at noon.

Join us this #GivingTuesday and give the gift of sight to children like Halima. Visit orbis.org to learn more.

Tweet me:.@AmerCharities: On #GivingTuesday Help @OrbisIntl Give the Gift of Sight http://bit.ly/2hXMH2A #WorkplaceGiving #EmployeeGiving

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Responsible Business & Employee Engagement, America’s Charities, workplace giving, charity vetting, Fundraising, GivingTuesday, Orbis

by Tatiana Siegel

SOURCE:Bloomberg

DESCRIPTION:

President Trump ran on a campaign that promised to bring the coal industry back in America. But to billionaire mogul, former New York City mayor and philanthropist Michael Bloomberg, that’s an empty promise given that long before climate change activists began railing against it, the industry was on a downward trajectory because of technology and cheaper alternatives like natural gas. In 2015, the founder of the privately-held Bloomberg L.P. asked top lieutenant Katherine Oliver to back a film that could explain the issue from both sides — the workers displaced when coal plants close and the health costs of the polluting industry when they remain open. The result is Michael Bonfiglio’s From the Ashes, one of the environmental-themed contenders in this year’s Oscar documentary feature race. The film, which opened in April at the Tribeca Film Festival, dovetails with Bloomberg Philanthropies’ efforts to take coal mines offline (263 plants have been retired through its investment in the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign to date). Oliver, who served as New York’s film czar for 12 years and executive produced From the Ashes, and Bloomberg sat down with THR to discuss why they got involved in the project and why consumers and even Wall Street are driving the change.

Click here to read the full story. 
 

Tweet me:Michael Bloomberg on the Timeliness of His Coal Industry Doc 'From the Ashes' @mikebloomberg #fromtheashes http://bit.ly/2Bu6TSn

KEYWORDS: Media & Communications, Energy, Bloomberg, philanthropy, bloombergdotorg, Documentary, beyondcoal, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Mike Bloomberg, from the ashes, Beyond Coal