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Coronavirus Dehydration Concerns Addressed via Substantial ‘SOS Hydration’ Donation Targeted to Health Workers & Test-Positive Patients in Hard-Hit States
SOSHydration.com initiates COVID-19-driven donations, starting with 20,000 drink mix packs in partnership with Global Empowerment Mission to aid healthcare workers & affected families
SCOTTSDALE, AZ, March 11, 2020 – Amid escalating concerns about derivative health implications of COVID-19 and influenza illnesses in general—with dehydration paramount among the more ubiquitous health concerns as detailed in a multitude of reports—SOS Hydration (www.SOSHydration.com ) is leading the dehydration-focused donation charge to aid healthcare workers and affected families in particularly hard hit states. This as the company today announced that, through its partnership with the Global Empowerment Mission/#BStrong non-profit disaster relief organization, it has commenced donations starting with 20,000 packs of its research-backed and independently tested hydration drink mix as an easy-access/use dehydration avoidance and treatment/recovery solution.
According to board-certified internist Dr. Blanca Lizaola-Mayo, SOS Hydration—a pleasant-tasting, hydration-accelerating drink mix uniquely engineered to combat mild to moderate dehydration—can help people fight an infection and recover faster since if proffers hydration equivalent to an I.V. drip, helping the body rehydrate fully three-times faster than by drinking water alone.
“One of the main effects of viral infections is dehydration, which the body combats by increasing its temperature, often causing a fever; this means that you lose more water through skin evaporation and even breathing,” cautions Dr. Lizaola-Mayo, who co-founded SOS Hydration. “Viruses can also make you lose your appetite (another hydration source) and some may even cause diarrhea, vomiting or both. One of the best natural ways to combat viral illness and expedite recovery is through proper hydration, by drinking plenty of fluids. Hydration acceleration solutions like SOS Hydration —often tapped for exercise, travel, imbibing and other lifestyle-induced dehydration—can be a powerful recovery assist for viral infections and infectious respiratory illnesses like influenza (‘the flu’) and COVID-19. And, it can be used without causing gastrointestinal distress.”
“Because SOS has less sugar, the packs are considerably smaller and more compact than other so-called rehydration solutions on the market, so health organizations can more readily stockpile—plus they’re more cost effective,” added SOS Hydration co-founder James Mayo. “While others are profiteering on this terrible situation, our already economical prices have remained—and will continue to remain—exactly the same. Furthermore, relative to the dehydration situation being addressed, impacts must not be underestimated…especially when one considers that health workers and other front-line, response-team personnel wearing hazmat suits will, ironically, likely become dehydrated—a condition that can debilitate the human body and mind in a multitude of ways.”
“We’re thrilled to partner with SOS and gift those in need this viable and readily available dehydration avoidance and treatment beverage solution based on science and testing that far exceeds ‘other’ electrolyte drinks and mixes on the market,” said Sue Cushman, US National Aid Director of Global Empowerment Mission. “We know that this Coronavirus-specific donation is an extension of SOS Hydration’s overarching philanthropic work.”
Indeed, the pay-it-forward-minded company has previously donated product to Houston, Florida and the Virgin Islands relating to hurricane recovery, and to CalFire related to fire emergencies. In fact, both co-founders care deeply about protecting and serving the public, and in corporate social responsibility, with one a medical doctor and the other a military veteran…and both highly value-driven.
A Deep Dive Into Making A Difference
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Companies Have Significantly Increased Disclosure On Sustainability Issues, But Pressure To Do More Continues
New Edition Of Annual Benchmarking Study Examines Trends In Global CSR Reporting
A new study finds that companies are significantly increasing disclosure of their environmental and social practices but change in underlying practices has not kept pace.
Published by The Conference Board, Sustainability Practices: 2019 Edition analyzes data on sustainability disclosure across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The report shows that in the face of increasing pressure, a growing number of companies are significantly increasing the amount of sustainability information they disclose. For the first time, more than half of US companies in the sample – which comprises the 250 largest US companies by revenue – report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Among US companies, climate risks are now disclosed by almost half of companies (47 percent), a significant increase from 36 percent a year ago.
At the same time, more than half of companies (53 percent) in the global sample now report on gender composition of boards, up from 45 percent the previous year. While this type of disclosure is already common practice among US companies, it is becoming increasingly expected of companies in other regions. For example, the report finds a surge in board diversity reporting by companies in India and South Korea.
But change in underlying practices has not kept pace with disclosure. Globally, the median number of women on boards remained unchanged from the previous year, with women accounting for only 17 percent of board seats globally. Similarly, while more companies across regions are acknowledging the business risks posed by climate change, the median amount of greenhouse gas emissions from those same companies has risen over the last three years. These findings mirror a broader trend of transparency not necessarily translating to changes in practice.
“The gap between disclosure and practice is likely due, in part, to companies not yet integrating sustainability as an integral part of their business strategy, and thus they lack an incentive to change their practices,” said Thomas Singer, principal researcher in the ESG Center at The Conference Board and the report’s lead author. “Major investors are already calling for even greater disclosure, and if the disclosure/performance gap remains, there will be even more investor and government pressure aimed not just at increasing disclosure, but at requiring changes in performance.”
“Looking ahead, the challenge for companies is to focus on those issues that are truly material to their long-term future, taking all their stakeholders into account, so that disclosure and practice go hand-in-hand,” Singer added.
As part of the research, disclosure data on 92 environmental and social practices were analyzed for nearly 6,000 companies in 26 countries, as well as for companies in the S&P Global 1200 index. The new report distills insights from the data to reveal how companies are responding to increased demand for transparency on their nonfinancial impacts.
The following additional findings from the report can help companies anticipate what lies ahead as they engage in the evolving practice of sustainability reporting:
- Companies are increasingly disclosing information relating to climate change risks.In the S&P Global 1200, the biggest year-over-year increase in disclosure was in the number of companies reporting climate change risks. A total of 38 percent of S&P Global 1200 companies disclosed these risks, up from 25 percent the previous year. The highest disclosure rates by sector came from energy companies (71 percent) and utilities (65 percent).
Another sign of the issue’s increasing salience: The number of S&P Global 1200 companies referencing the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) in their annual reports rose from 40 (when the TCFD recommendations were released in 2017) to 337 in 2019.
- Regulation, even from other jurisdictions, is increasingly a disclosure-driver.Regulatory developments in Europe will continue to influence the sustainability disclosure practices of companies in other jurisdictions, the report found. The recent implementation of sustainability disclosure requirements in Europe—such as the European Union’s nonfinancial reporting Directive and the UK’s gender pay gap reporting requirements—is resulting in increased disclosure. Specifically, more disclosure by both European and foreign companies operating in Europe, as the latter are also subject to the requirements.
- Disclosure of gender pay gap details is gaining traction among US companies, spurred in part by growing pressure from shareholders. In 2019, the gender pay gap was the most frequently voted topic among shareholder resolutions on environmental and social issues. Shareholders of Russell 3000 companies voted on 13 proposals on this topic, up from five proposals in 2018.
Support for these proposals is also increasing. The report found that 20 percent of US companies disclosed their gender pay gap information, up from only three percent last year. By comparison, 41 percent of companies in the UK sample report this information, driven largely by the mandatory gender pay gap reporting requirements that became effective in 2018.
- The practice of obtaining external assurance of sustainability information has risen sharply, reflecting a desire to confirm that disclosures are reliable.For the first time, a majority of S&P Global 1200 companies (51 percent) seek such confirmation of their data, up dramatically from just three years ago, when about one-third of the companies (34 percent) did so. At the same time, there remains much variation in the practice of sustainability assurance. Most companies obtain assurance for only a selection of their sustainability information, not for their full sustainability report, and there are notable differences in the levels of assurance obtained by companies and the types of organizations providing the assurance.
- Companies with at least $1 billion in revenue are much more likely to engage in disclosure than their smaller counterparts.Previous editions of this report have noted that sustainability disclosure rates generally increase with company size, so the current edition aimed to find the sustainability-reporting tipping point. The data show limited uptake of sustainability reporting by companies with revenues of less than $1 billion and a strong increase in disclosure once companies pass that threshold.
Reasons for limited disclosure among smaller enterprises may include lack of resources and knowhow to track and report relevant data, as well as a relative absence of pressure from stakeholders.
Practices analyzed in the report include board diversity, gender pay equity, climate-risk assessment, external assurance, and water consumption, among others. For the first time, this edition also tracked how many companies have quantitative sustainability targets explicitly linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The Sustainability Practices Dashboard, a comprehensive database and online benchmarking tool, complements the report. It enables users to segment data by region, market, sector, revenue groups, and index (including the S&P Global 1200, S&P 500, and Russell 3000).
About The Conference Board
The Conference Board is a member-focused think tank that provides trusted insights for what’s ahead. We are a non-partisan, not-for-profit entity holding 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt status in the United States. www.conference-board.org
Hunter Fan Company Expresses Passion To Combat Homelessness Through Most Recent Huntervention
With A Cause Related To The Home, Hunter’s Latest Memphis Project And Upcoming Charitable Promotion Helps Those In Need
For a brand committed to the home, finding a cause to be passionate about was simple. Hunter Fan Company, the nation’s leading ceiling fan manufacturer is proud to share that their latest Huntervention not only updated a home, but helped change lives. Hunter’s partnership with Memphis-based charity, The Dorothy Day House, allowed the brand to complete their largest and most heart-warming Huntervention yet, furnishing and transforming the organization’s newest safe haven for those suffering from homelessness. With more than 40 Hunter employees there to complete the task, Hunter was happy to help create a comfortable and beautiful place for those lacking the most basic of necessities.
Inspired by the vision and passion of social activist, Dorothy Day and the Catholic Worker Movement, the Dorothy Day House provides temporary housing and support services for homeless families in Memphis, TN, headquarters of Hunter Fan Company. Working with local volunteers, staff and other organizations, the Dorothy Day House provides families in need with a safe environment and the means to re-establish their independence. After various Hunter employees shared both their own experiences working with the organization and the stories of the families who have been helped by the Dorothy Day house, the team at Hunter decided that they could do more to help out by working together.
“Several of our team members at Hunter volunteer on a weekly basis, and when this new project was brought to our attention, it felt like the perfect fit for what our brand stands for,” said Hunter CEO, John Alexander. “Every day we provide fans for those who are looking for an easy way to improve their home environment and the volunteers at the Dorothy Day House work daily to provide a safe space for those who do not have one. Many people are one injury or misfortune away from being in this situation and as an interior-focused brand, we wanted to bring the comforts of home to those who needed it most.” “The team at the Dorothy Day house has been amazing and we are so proud and honored that we can do something to help make a difference.”
Over the last few months, more than 40 employees have spent countless hours dedicated to planning the completion of Dorothy Day’s 3rd and newest home, St. Joseph. Hunter’s design team worked tirelessly to determine which fans would be chosen and the brand team hand-selected each piece of furniture Hunter donated for the home. From specifics like the color of the porch fan mirroring the local Memphis sports teams, to the functionality needed to perform in a space that will get constant use by hundreds of people in the years to come. More than 8 fans were donated to help create a cool and comfortable environment in each room, and stunning fixtures from Hunter’s brand new lighting collection were also included in the dining room and front entryway of the home. Additional furnishings and décor elements were chosen with care as various employees lent elbow grease and personal skills to the project, from handmade furniture to hand lettering/artistry and more, infusing many personal touches throughout the home. Inspiring quotes now hang throughout the space and a flower mural in the entrance of the home provides a warm welcome to those who have spent days or months struggling.
With over half a million people going homeless on a single night in the United States*, Hunter’s fight to combat homelessness does not stop with this one Huntervention. Emboldened by this project, Hunter wants to provide a way for their customers to join in on their efforts through a heart-warming new charitable promotion, “Hunter Gives Back”. From Feb 1 – Feb 29, 2020, a portion of all sales made on Hunter Fan Company’s website will be donated to the cause of homelessness and organizations like The Dorothy Day House. Customers can make a difference in their own homes while impacting the lives of those in need.
To view images and videos from this Huntervention and to learn more about Hunter’s partnership with the Dorothy Day House and the fight against homelessness, please visit Hunterfan.com/hunter-gives-back or follow Hunter on Instagram. To make an impact in the lives of those suffering from homelessness by purchasing your next fan from Hunter Fan Company and participate in the February donation event, don’t forget to make your purchase on Hunterfan.com.
*Source: The White House, The Council of Economic Advisers: The State of Homelessness in America, Sep 2019
About Hunter Fan Company
Keeping homes ‘Quietly Cool since 1886’, Hunter Fan Company is the world’s original ceiling fan manufacturer. As the #1 most installed ceiling fan for over 130 years, Hunter continues to provide a deep heritage of performance, comfort and everyday style for any room, giving consumers confidence, peace-of-mind and ultimately more control over their home environment. The Memphis-based brand offers an array of beautiful and thoughtfully crafted designs, from rustic and contemporary to classic and retro statement pieces. In addition, the brand has recently debuted a variety of proprietary technologies, truly differentiating the brand within the industry – from their exclusive line of WiFi®-enabled SIMPLEconnect® fans, which are compatible with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa to the brand’s SureSpeed® Guarantee which sets the standard for optimum airflow performance. As an industry-leader, Hunter’s cutting-edge design and quality craftsmanship continues to bring unmatched performance into every space. Hunter ceiling fans are available on Hunterfan.com, as well as in lighting showrooms, home centers and online retailers nationwide.
For more information, visit HunterFan.com, and connect with Hunter Fan Company on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Youtube and Twitter.
Country Music Superstar Luke Bryan Partners With Cornerstone Building Brands As 2020 Home For Good Project Ambassador
Cornerstone Building Brands, the largest manufacturer of exterior building products in North America, launched its Home for Good project in 2016 to help address the affordable housing crisis. This year, they will partner with country music superstar Luke Bryan to continue their efforts to help build affordable homes across the U.S.
Since the program’s inception, Cornerstone Building Brands donated over $2 million in exterior building products to Habitat for Humanity, contributing to more than 500 homes in 70 communities. In addition, the company encouraged its employees to volunteer on Habitat home builds throughout the country; thus far, hundreds of employees have volunteered their time across more than 30 cities.
“Our products are the cornerstone of the communities in which we live, work and play and we are committed to positively contributing to and giving back to those communities,” said James S. Metcalf, Cornerstone Building Brands’ Chairman and CEO. “As we continue to help by donating our Ply Gem branded building products and our employees’ volunteer time, we are honored to team up with country music superstar Luke Bryan as our 2020 Home for Good project ambassador and appreciate his support as we raise awareness and find solutions for this critical issue that continues to face the country.”
“I’m happy to lend my support of Cornerstone Building Brands’ ongoing efforts to raise awareness for available and affordable housing across the country,” said Bryan.
Over 18 million U.S. households (1 in 6) pay 50% or more of their income on housing, forgoing personal and economic stability that safe, decent and affordable housing provides. It is clear that homeownership matters and not having access to this takes a toll on the health and wellness of families. Cost-burdened households with children spend on average $190 less on food and 70 percent less on health care when compared with similar households living in affordable homes.
Once again, in 2020, the company will donate Ply Gem Residential Solutions exterior products to the building and remodeling of affordable homes for families in need. Additionally, Cornerstone Building Brands employees will volunteer their time to work on home build projects in over 10 communities across the country where they have manufacturing facilities and locations.
For more information about the Home for Good project, please visit https://www.cornerstonebuildingbrands.com/about-us/corporate-responsibility.
About Cornerstone Building Brands:
Cornerstone Building Brands is the largest manufacturer of exterior building products in North America. Headquartered in Cary, North Carolina, the organization serves residential and commercial customers across new construction and the repair & remodel markets. As the #1 manufacturer of windows, vinyl siding, insulated metal panels, metal roofing and wall systems and metal accessories, Cornerstone Building Brands combines a comprehensive portfolio of products with an expansive national footprint that includes more than 22,000 employees at manufacturing, distribution and office locations throughout North America. For more information, visit us at www.cornerstonebuildingbrands.com.
About Luke Bryan
Luke Bryan is a two-time Academy of Country Music and a two-time Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year, a five-time host of the ACM Awards, a three-year celebrity judge on ABC’s “American Idol,” a NSAI Artist/Songwriter of the Year, and six-time CMT Artist of the Year. Bryan has more certified digital singles than any other country artist, with 54 million tracks and 12.5 million albums with seven Billion music streams and has 23 #1 singles, 12 of which he co-wrote. Luke will release his seventh studio album BORN HERE, LIVE HERE, DIE HERE on April 24 and will kick off the “PROUD TO BE RIGHT HERE TOUR” on May 28. Visit www.LukeBryan.com or follow Luke on Twitter @LukeBryanOnline, Instagram and Facebook.
* Source: Habitat for Humanity® Beneficial Impact of Homeowners Report
The ISA Foundation Grants $601,000 To 21 U.S. Nonprofits
The ISA Foundation, Operated By Isagenix International, Is Awarding Grants Totaling $601,000 To 21 U.S.-Based Nonprofit Organizations Whose Projects Include Nourishing Food-Insecure Families. The Grants Will Aid People In The United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, And Haiti.
The ISA Foundation is pleased to announce its latest round of grants, which will help 21 U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with projects ranging from nourishing food-insecure families to assisting communities after natural disasters. The grants, which total $601,000, range from $5,000 to $100,000 and will aid people in the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Haiti.
The 21 recipients include:
- Emeril Lagasse Foundation: Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, the foundation’s mission is to create opportunities to inspire, mentor, and enable youth to reach their full potential through culinary, nutrition, and arts education. The ISA Foundation’s $33,000 grant will support a new program to teach healthy living habits to fatherless youth in New Orleans.
- IDEA Public Schools: Based in Weslaco, Texas, IDEA provides high-quality prekindergarten through 12th grade education with an emphasis on low-income communities and ensures students have fresh, healthy food at school. The ISA Foundation’s $40,000 grant will help expand IDEA’s farming program, which infuses classrooms with hands-on learning focused on cultivating and eating fresh, locally grown food.
- Partnership for a Healthier America: Based in Washington, D.C., the nonprofit’s goal is that all children — especially those disproportionately affected — will live healthier lives, growing up to be adults free from obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. The ISA Foundation’s $50,000 grant will help the group expand its fresh food initiative to uplift the health and well-being of food-insecure children and families nationwide by providing more fresh food in food banks.
“Each grant cycle has brought tremendous nonprofit organizations to our attention, allowing us to partner with people who are as passionate as we are about providing much-needed assistance to communities around the world,” said Isagenix Chief Legal Officer and ISA Foundation Board Member Justin Powell. “We’re honored to help our latest grant recipients fulfill their missions and make a lasting impact.”
Since its inception in 2018, the ISA Foundation has awarded more than $2.5 million to nonprofit partners in the United States and Canada that align with the foundation’s focus on healthy nutrition and support for underserved children, wellness education for all, and aid for those affected by natural disasters. To view a list of previous grant recipients, visit the foundation’s impact page.
The foundation will accept its next round of grant applications from U.S.-based nonprofits from March 15 to April 15. Isagenix will announce the recipients in July.
In addition to awarding grants, the ISA Foundation is also giving back through sales of IsaKids® Super Smoothie, a nutritious snack option for kids. For each bag sold, Isagenix donates one meal to a child in need through the foundation. So far, nearly 72,000 meals have been donated, including 7,192 meals from a special “buy one, donate two” promotion during the product’s launch in August.
The foundation is also helping others through volunteer initiatives, including a recent service trip with one of its first grant recipients, SERV International, a Georgia-based nonprofit that uses food as a catalyst to transform lives. An Isagenix employee, eight of the company’s independent distributors, and two SERV employees traveled to Kenya, where they helped pack over 56,000 SERV Food meals, distributed meals in local villages, and visited with children in SERV’s House of Hope orphanage.
To learn more about the ISA Foundation, visit ISAFoundation.net, like the foundation on Facebook, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram.
To learn more about Isagenix, visit the Newsroom, like the company on Facebook, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram.
About the ISA Foundation
Established in 2018, the ISA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to create sustainable impact globally through volunteer efforts and charitable contributions focused on healthy nutrition and support for underserved children, wellness education for all, and aid for those affected by natural disasters. Isagenix International covers all administrative costs of the foundation so 100% of donations can benefit those in need. For more information, visit ISAFoundation.net.
About Isagenix International
Established in 2002, Isagenix provides systems for weight loss, performance, vitality and well-being, personal care and beauty, and financial wellness. With half a million customers worldwide and more than 100 products, packs, and systems globally, the company is committed to supporting healthy change in its customers’ and independent distributors’ lives. Isagenix shares its products and solutions through a network of independent distributors in 14 markets: the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and South Korea. Isagenix is a privately owned company with headquarters in Gilbert, Arizona. For more information, visit Isagenix.com.
Cigna Helps People Achieve Aspirational Health Goals At The 2020 Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend
– Olympic Medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee And Former Nfl Running Back And Philanthropist Warrick Dunn Show The Power Of Community And Share Their Approach To Well-Being And Reaching Health Goals.
– Cigna’s Health Improvement Tour Returns To The Rundisney Health & Fitness Expo To Offer Free Health Screenings And Promote The Importance Of Whole Person Health.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. and BLOOMFIELD, Conn., Jan. 9, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Cigna returns as the proud sponsor of the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend, one of the largest marathon race weekends in the United States. More than 60,000 people will race through the park’s most iconic rides and attractions to celebrate the power of aspirational goal-setting, community support and personal achievement.
“Cigna and runDisney share a commitment to inspire people of all ages to come together and live their healthiest lives,” said Julia Huggins, senior vice president, U.S. Commercial and Enterprise Specialty Distribution and the 2020 Team Cigna executive sponsor. “Our continued sponsorship of the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend, one of the most respected race series in the nation, is an opportunity for participants to come together, set goals and achieve them with the backing of a strong community to support them along the way. Through our community of customers and employees, Cigna is also proud to support individual athletes and the many non-profit organizations represented at runDisney events.”
Team Cigna Laces Up
More than 1,300 Team Cigna members represent Cigna employees, Cigna and Cigna Foundation community partners Achilles International, Back on My Feet, St. Louis Children’s Hospital – Healthy Kids Express Asthma, Students Run Philly Style, Brightstar Community Outreach, Pace Center for Girls, Operation BBQ Relief, and Cigna clients and customers.
This year, Cigna has also added Olympic medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee and former NFL running back and philanthropist Warrick Dunn.
As part of Team Cigna, Joyner-Kersee and Dunn will guide runners with differing abilities throughout the weekend’s races. They will also be attending several activities in partnership with Cigna to promote the company’s approach to whole person health and well-being by discussing how they each find balance in their hectic personal and professional lives and focus on their total body health.
Undefeatable: A Profile on Candice Caesar
An Achilles Freedom Team member and participant on Team Cigna, Candice Caesar, has overcome tremendous challenges to participate in this year’s races. Caesar is participating in the highly-regarded Dopey Challenge, a four-day series of races, including the Walt Disney World® Marathon, Walt Disney World® Half Marathon, Walt Disney World® 10K, and Walt Disney World® 5K.
A military veteran, Caesar suffered a motorized vehicle accident that left her with a brain injury and physical difficulties that included being unable to swallow or use her voice properly. Caesar went on to regain her ability to speak and swallow and ultimately became a speech pathologist for Autistic children.
“I’m so grateful for the support Cigna gave me in one of my hardest moments,” said Caesar. “It’s because of the team at Cigna that I’m here today running the Dopey Challenge. But more importantly, I’m doing it to show everyone out there facing similar challenges that anything is possible when you commit to a goal and find a community that supports you.”
Caesar will be guided by a group of Cigna employees. Cigna employees will serve as guides for several other racers with differing abilities, many of whom are athletes with Achilles International and The Achilles Freedom Team. Achilles International is a non-profit organization dedicated to enabling people with disabilities participate in mainstream athletic events. The Freedom Team is comprised of military veterans who have come back from the battlefield to participate in running events.
“We’re so inspired to see runners with differing abilities all running together side by side,” said Huggins. “It serves as a testament that, with the right motivation and support system in place, anything is possible.”
This year marks the 12th consecutive year that Cigna is the presenting sponsor of runDisney.
Preventive Care for Body and Mind: Cigna Health Improvement Tour Returns
The Cigna Health Improvement Tour, a mobile clinic that travels around the country offering free health screening and coaching, will be available at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex offering free screenings for four health numbers – blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and body mass index (BMI). Through this event, Cigna will also encourage people to get their annual check-up and talk openly and honestly with their doctor about how they are feeling, physically and emotionally.
About Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna
The Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna, which attracts tens of thousands of participants and spectators from around the world, is one of the largest events held in Central Florida and is among the largest marathon race weekends in the United States. Runners of all ages and skill levels take part in a variety of family-friendly events and races, including Walt Disney World® Marathon, Walt Disney World® Half Marathon, Walt Disney World® 10K, Walt Disney World® 5K, Dopey Challenge (running the 5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon on consecutive days), Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge (running the half marathon and the full marathon on consecutive days), and runDisney Kid’s Races.
About Cigna
Cigna Corporation (NYSE: CI) is a global health service company dedicated to improving the health, well-being and peace of mind of those we serve. Cigna delivers choice, predictability, affordability and access to quality care through integrated capabilities and connected, personalized solutions that advance whole person health. All products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Life Insurance Company of North America, Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York, Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and other related products including group life, accident and disability insurance.
Cigna maintains sales capability in over 30 countries and jurisdictions, and has more than 160 million customer relationships throughout the world. To learn more about Cigna®, including links to follow us on Facebook or Twitter, visit www.cigna.com.
Liberty Mutual Insurance Announces 19 Grants In $5 Million Effort To Address Youth Homelessness In Boston
Liberty Mutual Insurance today announced the first round of recipients of a $5 million philanthropic effort to support organizations in greater Boston working to reduce and end youth homelessness. Nineteen local non-profit organizations are among the first round of grant recipients announced today.
Organizations awarded grants today were acknowledged during a ceremony in Boston’s South End at the More Than Words Liberty Bookstore, an organization previously supported by Liberty Mutual and a grant recipient. Mayor Martin J. Walsh, Liberty Mutual Insurance Chairman and Chief Executive Officer David Long, Liberty Mutual Foundation President Melissa MacDonnell and A Way Home America Director Megan Gibbard Kline were among those on hand to offer congratulations.
“Today we celebrate people and organizations in our city who have dedicated their time, energy and passion to make a difference in the life of a young person experiencing homelessness,” said Long. “Supporting the efforts of these organizations will ensure more young people are provided the tools and resources they need to successfully build their futures despite the challenges they’ve faced in their pasts. We’re extremely proud to be a partner in this work.”
The announcement of these grants follows the recent release of the City of Boston’s Rising to the Challenge Plan to End Youth and Young Adult Homelessness. Liberty Mutual representatives were among those who advised in the development of the city’s plan.
“Ending youth homelessness in the City of Boston requires an all-hands-on-deck approach,” said Walsh. “I’m grateful for Liberty Mutual’s partnership and commitment to this important issue. By working together we can take urgent action to make a difference in the lives of our city’s young people.”
The grants awarded today are the first round of grants that will be awarded over a three-year period.
“The organizations we support exemplify the dedication, innovation and strategic thinking necessary to create meaningful change on this vitally important issue and in the lives of so many young people,” said MacDonnell. “Together, with our non-profit partners and young people themselves, we will create new narratives and help incubate ideas that can provide young people with the sense of stability and security they need today to imagine and build their futures.”
“Our work with youth who are experiencing homelessness requires support and resources from people who care,” said HopeWell President and Chief Executive Officer Shaheer Mustafa. “Time and time again, Liberty Mutual has shown they are willing to stand with the organizations on the front line of this issue. This investment in our organization demonstrates a commitment to a better way and a brighter future for so many young people.”
Liberty Mutual Foundation Grant Recipients
Action for Boston Community Development provides case management of homeless youth and young adults as well as an emergency-needs fund and workforce development opportunities. Liberty Mutual will provide a $300,000 grant.
Boston CASA provides community volunteers who are appointed by judges of the juvenile courts in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties to serve as Guardians ad Litem to advocate for the best interests of children and youth in the foster care system. Liberty Mutual will provide a $240,000 grant.
Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program improves access to comprehensive health services for unaccompanied homeless youth, addressing their medical and behavioral health care needs in unconventional settings. Liberty Mutual will provide a $450,000 grant.
Breaktime Cafe launches the careers of young adults experiencing homelessness through transitional employment and empowers homeless youth and young adults to take control of their destinies and gain stability in their lives. Liberty Mutual will provide a $50,000 grant.
Bridge Over Troubled Waters provides effective and innovative services to runaway, homeless and high-risk youth, which helps guide youth toward self-sufficiency and enables them to transform their lives and build fulfilling, meaningful futures. Liberty Mutual will provide a $150,000 grant.
Cambridge Family and Children’s Services provides high-quality support and advocacy for children, adults and families to develop and nurture safe, permanent relationships and maximize individual growth. Liberty Mutual will provide a $255,000 grant.
Fenway Community Health Center works to enhance the well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community and all people through access to the highest-quality health care, education, research and advocacy. Liberty Mutual will provide a $300,000 grant.
Friends of Youth Opportunity Boston engages youth and young adults, employment and homeless servicer providers, and employers to advance practical research about employment among the homeless youth population — leading to a system change to improve employment outcomes for youth and young adults. Liberty Mutual will provide a $240,000 grant.
The Home for Little Wanderers’ improves outcomes for youth and young adults in Boston who are experiencing intensive foster care and who are aging out of the system by finding them permanent homes and reestablishing disconnected relationships with caring adults in their lives. Liberty Mutual will provide a $150,000 grant.
HopeWell’s My First Place™ provides stable, secure housing, education and employment services for Boston youth who have aged out of foster care with the aim of putting them on a path to self-sufficiency. Liberty Mutual will provide a $300,000 grant.
The Irish International Immigration Center assists homeless immigrant Boston Public School students to help them find a way out of poverty and into college or employment by providing free legal consults and representation, and by educating teachers, school and community-based organization staff as they support immigrant youth. Liberty Mutual will provide a $375,000 grant.
Justice Resource Institute Health in collaboration with YouthHarbors, provides rental stipends and support, as well as stable housing, in-school advocacy and independent living skills lessons so youth can graduate high school and succeed as adults. Liberty Mutual will provide a $375,000 grant.
Madison Park Development Corporation provides workforce training, HiSET classes, mental health services and mentoring to youth in high-need areas such as Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan. Liberty Mutual will provide a $150,000 grant.
Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless works with Charlestown and English High Schools to provide unaccompanied and unstably housed youth with timely support and resources to improve housing, ensure the continuity of education and promote overall well-being. Liberty Mutual will provide a $50,000 grant.
More than Words empowers young adults who are court-involved, homeless in the foster care system or out of school to take charge of their lives by taking charge of a business. Liberty Mutual will provide a $450,000 grant.
Silver Lining Mentoring leverages the power of positive relationships to promote young people’s sense of belonging and self-esteem by providing the support and services most appropriate for each individual over the course of a long-term relationship. Liberty Mutual will provide a $375,000 grant.
Smart from the Start helps prevent the academic achievement gap among young children living in the lowest-income families and communities. Liberty Mutual will provide a $90,000 grant.
University of Massachusetts Foundation U-ACCESS in collaboration with other universities, such as Roxbury Community College and Bunker Hill Community College, Boston non-profits, and the City Of Boston, U-ACCESS intends to implement a progressive transitional housing program that is sensitive to students’ needs, specifically vulnerable young adults. Liberty Mutual will provide a $300,000 grant.
Y2Y Network employs a youth-to-youth model to provide a safe and affirming environment for young adults experiencing homelessness where they can collaborate with service providers, other youth experiencing homelessness, and student volunteers to create sustainable pathways out of homelessness and develop skills for long-term success. Liberty Mutual will provide a $75,000 grant.
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NATIONAL HEALTH FOUNDATION’S SHARE TABLE PILOT PROGRAM TAPPED AS STATEWIDE MODEL
CALFRESH FUNDED PARTNER DEMONSTRATES SUCCESS IN BUILDING HEALTHY HABITS IN SCHOOLS
Faced with the complex issue of food waste and food insecurity in their community, students at Santee Education Complex and Thomas Jefferson High School partnered with National Health Foundation (NHF) to find a solution. After months of conducting research, students and staff piloted what is now the gold standard for addressing food waste and insecurity – Share Table.
Through National Health Foundation’s Health Academy program, NHF partners with schools in South Los Angeles and works with students to develop sustainable solutions to address health barriers in their community. NHF collaborated with students at both schools to discover what issues prevented students from accessing healthy foods in their schools.
“Through the funding we received from the CalFresh Healthy Living Program, we were able to implement the Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) model, where students were challenged to think about health issues they faced in the context of food waste and food access,” shares Director of Community Initiatives, Chad Monk.
The results gathered from the data collected indicated:
1) High levels of food waste on campus
2) Many students experienced hunger at home after the school day ended
In considering various options to address food waste and food access at school, they decided to pursue the Share Table model. Under this model, students can use a table or other hard surface to place uneaten and unopened food items and beverages in an open space where students can pick up additional food items at no cost. Acceptable items include milk cartons, fresh fruit, and other healthy snacks.
After the initial pilot, students gathered data gathered from confidential surveys indicating that 35.9% of students reported using the Share Table one to five days a week and 55% reported that they felt the Share Table made a difference in their schools.
As a result of the incredible success of the program, the Los Angeles Department of Public Health and CalFresh Healthy Living proceeded with the inclusion of NHF’s step-by-step guide in this year’s CalFresh Healthy Living Share Table Implementation Guide. In addition, local and state policies that directly support the use of Share Tables in schools have been instituted, including SB 557 Food Donation and Pupil Meals: Schools.
If you are interested in covering NHF’s success with the Share Table model, please contact Stephany Rodas at (213) 538-0723 or via email at srodas@nhfca.org.
Founded in 1973, National Health Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 corporation that works within communities to eliminate barriers to health, address the root causes of poor health, and advocate and empower under-resourced communities to find solutions that lead to lasting change. Embracing the guiding philosophy that health begins where we live, learn, work and play, the organization’s advocacy and work focuses on four key areas: housing, food access, built environments and education.