America’s leading businesses are committed to investing in and working with their local communities to provide support, increase economic development and offer a helping hand in times of crisis. Sometimes that means providing financial support or other assistance to employees when they, or their families, are in need. Often, when communities are affected by natural disasters, it includes contributing supplies and supporting relief agencies or allowing paid time off so employees can be on the front-lines of disaster relief efforts. And, throughout these times, leading companies are fostering cultures of “giving,” engaging with the community through philanthropic initiatives while also supporting employee-led efforts to volunteer and give back.
Many companies often step up to employees and communities after natural disasters, providing valuable resources and assistance to support the rebuilding process. This includes KPMG, which matched more than $1 million in employee contributions to the KPMG Disaster Relief Fund to assist hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico. Silver Lake contributed $1 million to Texas hurricane relief and $500,000 to Puerto Rican hurricane relief.
Business Roundtable’s transportation and logistics member companies know that in the wake of a natural disaster, there is an immediate need to deliver relief materials quickly. For example, following Hurricanes Irma and Maria, the UPS Foundation facilitated 43 shipments of relief materials to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and provided in-kind and logistical support to an additional 53 relief shipments for UNICEF.
In addition to providing support in times of need, Business Roundtable members are committed to helping their surrounding communities grow stronger and more prosperous for the long term. Together with their workforce, supply chains and partnering companies and organizations, Business Roundtable companies are leading numerous comprehensive efforts to support community development and economic revitalization.
When AT&T Chicago employees came to management with suggestions about how the company could be part of the revitalization of struggling neighborhoods, the company listened. The AT&T BELIEVES program prioritized the company’s resources in the city to focus on 19 Chicago neighborhoods. Learn here how you can improve your smile with individual dental implants. From those areas, the California company has hired more than 500 people, including Jacobie, a call center supervisor. “The main impact that Believe Chicago has had, if I had to put it in one word, it would be ‘hope,’” he said. Now, AT&T is expanding the program to even more inner-city neighborhoods in major cities.
JPMorgan Chase is doing the same in Detroit, investing over $100 million in the city’s economic comeback.
A. O. Smith is dedicated to identifying and combating unsafe lead levels in drinking water. Partnering with the United Way and the City of Milwaukee, the company donated Aquasana-branded filtration products to Milwaukee residents whose homes had a connection to lead service lines. IBM’s Corporate Service and Health Corps initiatives send employees to high-need areas to use their skills, experience and IBM technology to address local problems in areas, including health, sustainability and education.
Companies also recognize unique opportunities to leverage their products and business models to actively identify and address challenges in the world around them. For example, in acknowledgment of the challenges those with autism face while flying, American Airlines’ “It’s Cool To Fly American” program helps autistic children and their families become comfortable with the sensory experience of air travel.
ITC contributed $400,000 in support of ConnectCR’s infrastructure project to address the need for improved walkability near the Cedar Lake area of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The Motorola Solutions Foundation partnered with the Red Cross to install over 1,000,000 smoke alarms in low-income neighborhoods across the United States.
And then there are the partnerships, philanthropic initiatives and volunteering programs where companies and their employees are encouraging change and making a difference.
Assurant’s Engagement Champion Teams partner with 20 or more Habitat for Humanity chapters each year to build homes or revitalize neighborhood spaces, like the Brownsville Houses Senior Center. Team-based volunteering is important to Assurant’s year-round commitment to help build stronger communities. NRG’s annual PositiveNRG week provides employees the option to take a break from the traditional work day to volunteer with a local charity. In 2018 NRG supported more than 85 charities with over 5,000 hours donated in one week, across 16 states.
State Farm’s Good Neighbor Grant provides a $500 grant to every non-profit and education organization at which employees, agents and retirees volunteer 40 or more hours in a calendar year. When an employee volunteers at an eligible charitable organization, Zebra Technologies donates up to $200 to that organization for every eight hours of service.
Finally, these leading companies are not only supporting stronger communities and local economies in times of need, they are also making key investments to bolster both economic and environmental sustainability. These efforts provide opportunities to change the status quo and come up with new—and better—methods of serving American employees and consumers in ways that limit environmental impacts and help promote safe and healthy communities for generations to come.
Metal packaging provider Ball Corporation is supporting recycling initiatives, like working with Eco-Cycle’s Green Star Schools program to divert up to two-thirds of waste from participating Boulder schools. Chubb has partnered with The Nature Conservancy to help protect and restore shoreline land in Florida’s Miami-Dade County, not only protecting an important ecosystem but also increasing the area’s resiliency in the face of rising sea levels.
With its “Recycle For Good” initiative, Novelis partnered with Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and Mercedes-Benz Stadium to encourage recycling. Novelis collects aluminum bottles and cans at the stadium, recycles them at a local plant, and uses the value of the aluminum to fund a Habitat for Humanity home. For every three million aluminum bottles and cans recycled at the stadium, Novelis funds an entire Habitat for Humanity home. Currently, Novelis is on the way to funding a third home and just recently brought its “Recycle For Good” initiative to the 2019 Kentucky Derby.
Members of the Business Roundtable also recognize the value of their technology in promoting sustainability. Last year, Johnson & Johnson’s design team reduced material used to manufacture the PROXISURE Suturing Device by 97% (excluding packaging) and increased packaging optimization through more efficient use of shipping space. Johnson & Johnson also created a single-tablet regimen for HIV medication that resulted in a 27% raw material reduction in the drug’s manufacturing and a 72% primary packaging reduction.
Whether that’s providing assistance to their own employees and local communities in times of need, working to revitalize local economies, or environmental and economic sustainability a priority, companies recognize that their most support systems are often the communities in which they operate. Making the necessary investments to build community and help people and neighborhoods overcome challenges is essential to promoting innovation and creating a more prosperous future for all.
SEE BELOW FOR MORE ON HOW LEADING COMPANIES ARE BUILDING COMMUNITIES AND MEETING CHALLENGES.
A. O. Smith commits to manufacturing products that reduce environmental impact
As energy and water demand increases, A. O. Smith’s customers and communities look to them to provide products that help reduce energy consumption and conserve water. A. O. Smith’s commitment to innovation and engineering excellence has enabled them to be a leader in meeting their customers’ demands, while – at the same time – manufacturing products in an environmentally responsible manner.
A. O. Smith water heaters and boilers are among the most innovative and energy efficient in the world. Leading the way are their best-in-class, high-efficiency condensing storage water heaters, boilers and tankless water heaters. These products are among those that receive the highest efficiency ratings in the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR® program in the United States, which only certifies products that are far above minimum standards set by the federal government.
Additionally, A. O. Smith was recently named a 2019 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year for its contribution and dedication to manufacturing high-efficiency water heaters. The recognition by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy speaks to A. O. Smith’s ongoing commitment to the manufacturing of high-efficiency products.
“It’s such a huge honor to be recognized by ENERGY STAR as a leader in the industry,” said David Chisolm, vice president of marketing for A. O. Smith’s North America water heater business. “We’re thrilled to have the opportunity and a platform to make a difference.”
A. O. Smith showcases commitment to its community through donations, safe drinking water programs and volunteer events
Established in 1955, the A. O. Smith Foundation has been supported by donations from the company and has provided $44 million in financial support to worthwhile community organizations, institutions and programs.
In 1985, the Foundation initiated the Matching Gift Program to financially support education at high schools, qualified colleges and universities. Employee contributions are matched dollar-for-dollar up to $3,000 per school year. Scholarships are also available for children of employees for higher education, including vocational-technical school and college.
In 2018, the A. O. Smith Foundation partnered with 189 organizations and donated $1.6 million. The Foundation focuses its efforts in four primary areas: education, human services, art and culture, and health.
Additionally, as a water technology company, A. O. Smith is proud to contribute to communities combating unsafe levels of lead in drinking water. The company partnered with the United Way and the City of Milwaukee to donate water filtration products to Milwaukee residents whose homes have a connection to lead service lines.
A. O. Smith encourages its employees around the world to live the company’s values through volunteerism and community involvement. Globally, A. O. Smith employees volunteer and give back to a variety of organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club and the United Way.
“We’re proud to be able to support a variety of community organizations in their ongoing efforts to make a positive difference,” said Mark Petrarca, secretary of the A. O. Smith Foundation Board and senior vice president of human resources and public affairs for A. O. Smith Corporation.
American Airlines helps eliminate more than 71,000 pounds of plastic waste each year
American has replaced all plastic straws in its lounges with biodegradable, eco-friendly straws, and we will soon begin transitioning to all eco-friendly flatware in lounges. In the air, American has eliminated all plastic straws and offer a stir stick made of sustainable and environmentally friendly bamboo. By making these changes, American will eliminate more than 71,000 pounds of plastic per year.
American’s onboard environmental sustainability efforts go back to 1989, when the airline’s flight attendants started the industry’s first onboard recycling program. Through this program, American recycles hundreds of thousands of pounds of aluminum per year, with proceeds going to The Wings Foundation, a charitable organization administered by active American Airlines flight attendants to assist fellow flight attendants in times of need. American also transitioned away from plastic foam cups to paper cups in 2015.
“We’re cognizant of our impact on the environment and we remain committed to doing our part to sustain the planet for future generations of travelers.” — Jill Surdek, American Airlines Vice President, Flight Service
American Airlines is helping children with autism and their families get comfortable flying
It’s Cool to Fly American helps children on the autism spectrum and their families become comfortable with the sensory experience of air travel. American and its Abilities Employee Business Resource Group launched the program in 2015 and holds dozens of events systemwide each year.
For children on the autism spectrum, the unfamiliar drill of air travel can be an overwhelming experience. Whether it’s getting your boarding pass, waiting in line at security or not understanding why you need to go through a metal detector away from your belongings, every task is new. Tack on to that the constant waiting and the amount of people you encounter in an airport, and you can understand why most families who have a child with autism skip air travel altogether.
The It’s Cool to Fly program offers families traveling with children who have autism the opportunity to take what is essentially a test flight, but on the ground. Participants come to an airport, check in, go through security, wait in a crowded space, board and taxi around the tarmac — all to become comfortable with the sensory experience of air travel.
“Getting used to something new, changes and everything are really difficult, and him not being in control. We’ve always driven because we didn’t know how Michael would do with flying. This event…was the perfect thing for Michael to do.” ― Annette Martinez, mother of 8-year-old Michael Edward Martinez
AEP is a foundational partner in efforts to transform Columbus, OH, into a “Smart City”
AEP plays an important role as a Foundational Partner in the Smart Columbus initiative that began in 2016 when the City of Columbus, Ohio – home to AEP’s corporate headquarters – won the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) $40 million Smart City Challenge. As a partner, AEP’s Smart Columbus initiatives include modernizing the transportation network with incentives to increase the number of electric vehicle charging stations and reducing carbon emissions in the electric power sector through energy efficiency and grid modernization.
“We are well-positioned to play a significant role in supporting EV market development. We are working to increase adoption of EVs and provide charging options that optimize the use of the grid for the benefit of all customers.” - Nick Akins, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, American Electric Power
Ameriprise Financial brings together thousands of volunteers to feed hungry families and individuals
A long-standing philanthropic partner of Feeding America, Ameriprise has provided more than 84 million meals and more nearly 310,000 volunteer hours to help solve domestic hunger since 2009. The company’s Ameriprise National Days of Service held in June and November engage more than 12,000 Ameriprise financial advisors, employees and clients in volunteering at Feeding America food banks and other hunger-relief organizations each year. More than 41 million Americans struggle with hunger, which has negative impacts on their health, education and ability to remain self-sufficient. Communities with the highest rates of food insecurity face a greater prevalence for diseases such as diabetes and obesity, as well as a higher incidence for other metrics that are tied to health.
“Underemployment, rising housing prices and an increasing cost of living contribute to the hunger issues we face in America. Families facing these challenges often have to choose between paying bills or putting food on the table. It’s humbling to see our volunteers come together to help bridge these gaps.” - Brian Pietsch, head of community relations at Ameriprise
Aon's law department employees provided 1,200 hours in pro bono legal work in 2017
Aon’s law department provides pro bono counsel for immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers. They dedicated 1,200 hours to pro bono legal work in 2017.
Aon’s ClimateWise is providing leadership and solutions for a more sustainable economy
AON is a founding member and the first broker of ClimateWise, an insurance industry initiative to develop leadership and solutions for a sustainable economy.
Apple invests significantly in environmental initiatives
In April 2019, Apple announced it nearly doubled the number of suppliers that have committed to run their Apple production on 100 percent clean energy, bringing the total number to 44. Because of this partnership between Apple and its suppliers, Apple will exceed its goal of bringing 4 gigawatts of renewable energy into its supply chain by 2020, with over an additional gigawatt projected within that timeframe. This comes one year after Apple announced that all of its global facilities are powered by 100 percent renewable energy.
Apple reduced its comprehensive carbon footprint for the third year in a row in 2018, in large part due to the company’s Supplier Clean Energy Program. Manufacturing makes up 74 percent of Apple’s carbon footprint, so the program helps its suppliers increase energy efficiency and transition to renewable energy sources. Just last year, Apple and its suppliers participated in clean energy generation that roughly equaled the electricity needed to power over 600,000 homes in the US.
“Every time one of our suppliers joins us in our efforts to address climate change, we move closer to a better future for the next generation,” said Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives. “We’ve made it a priority to hold our suppliers accountable to the same environmental standards we observe and hope that our collaboration will show others what is possible. While we are proud of our announcement today, we won’t stop driving change within our industry to support the clean energy transition happening globally.”
Assurant program incentivizes employee giving, volunteering
The Assurant Cares program is the umbrella focus of Assurant’s philanthropic giving and community volunteerism. Their online portal provides all employees world-wide a convenient way to not only give to charities of their choice, but also to receive matching grants up to $1,000 annually, volunteer and log their hours for community service. The Assurant Cares portal is a platform that is designed to ensure that wherever someone works – at an Assurant office location or virtually – they can connect and be engaged in programs focused on the greater good. Assurant provides incentives and challenges throughout the year to increase participation.
Assurant increases charitable engagement, provides preparation guides when disasters strike
In partnership with its Business Continuity team, Assurant conducts a Hurricane Awareness campaign each spring to help ensure its employees are ready and aware of resources available to assist them. When disasters strike, Assurant ramps up their charitable engagement with core partners such as the American Red Cross with special 2:1 matching to disaster relief organizations and to help their own. In the wake of the devastating hurricanes of 2017 and in honor of their employees, Assurant created the Assurant Cares Employee Support (ACES) Fund. This independent 501c3 helps Assurant employees recover from the devastating impact that disaster can bring – whether that’s a hurricane, flood, tornado or house fire beyond their control. The ACES Fund, while independent from other company offered benefits and programs, uniquely recognizes that even as Assurant employees are “24/7 and all-hands-on-deck” when catastrophic events affect their customers, they also sometimes need a helping hand to assist with their own recovery – especially for employees in coastal states such as Florida and South Carolina.
“One of the employees who was approved for an ACES Fund grant was just promoted to a Unit Manager. I can only think that us helping her get back on her feet was part of the reason she was engaged with the company and able to focus on her role rather than her home situation. Just an overall ‘feel good’ story and amazing outcome of what ACES is doing for our teams.” -Florence HR Partner
Assurant puts its surplus technology devices to work through its "Tech for Good" agreement
Assurant launched the Assurant Cares: Tech for Good agreement with Good360 to redistribute surplus technology to nonprofit organizations. In the first year, more than 1,250 computers were donated to schools, community centers and other nonprofit agencies.
"Thank you Good360 for helping us grow with technology and staying up-to-date in our hospital, helping enable us to provide the best care possible for these children who don’t generally have other options or access to this level and type of care." -Shari Rudolph with the Exceptional Care for Children organization on Assurant laptop donations
AT&T has invested more than 145,000 working hours and $600M into disaster relief over the last two decades
AT&T has invested more than $600 million in its U.S. Network Disaster Recovery program and another $15 million internationally. Over the last two decades, AT&T employees have spent more than 145,000 working hours on field exercises and deployments to affected areas. AT&T is the first company nationwide to receive United States Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Private Sector Preparedness Program (PS-Prep) certification.
In 2018, AT&T announced one of the largest corporate renewable energy purchases in U.S. history
In 2018, AT&T purchased 820 MW of wind power through 3 agreements with subsidiaries of NextEra Energy Resources, the world’s largest operator of renewable energy projects. The projects are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking more than 530,000 cars off the road or providing electricity for more than 372,000 homes per year.
In 2018, Ball Corporation employees provided 1.86 million meals for those in need through donations
Ball Corporation matches contributions from employees to its “Let’s Can Hunger” campaign. In 2018, Ball employees donated more than 665,000 pounds of canned food and $76,000 dollars, providing 1.86 million meals for those in need.
Ball Corporation's environmental initiatives expand recycling, reduce quantity of trash sent to landfills
The aluminum can is the most sustainable package in the world—100 percent and infinitely recyclable. As a global leader in producing billions of aluminum cans, Ball Corporation supports programs all along the recycling spectrum that expand collection infrastructure and improve metal recycling rates. By supporting community recycling, providing education about its benefits and promoting programs that encourage zero waste, Ball Corporation is keeping tons of trash out of landfills in its effort to ease its impact on plant Earth.
A 1,400-unit affordable housing development received $56.7 million in loans from Bank of America
Bank of America Merrill Lynch provided $56.7 million in construction loans and $50.4 million in low-income housing tax credit equity in the initial phase of a project to transform the Jordan Downs public housing development in Los Angeles, which will ultimately create 1,400 new affordable housing units.
"Community Development Banking uses a wide variety of financing solutions to help provide affordable housing, improve education and create jobs, thereby improving the quality of life for residents and creating more sustainable neighborhoods.” - Jim DeMare Co-Head of Global FICC Trading and Head of the Commercial Real Estate Bank (CREB)
15,000+ affordable housing units were financed by a Bank of America initiative in 2018
In 2018, Bank of America’s Community Development Banking initiative financed over 15,000 affordable housing units.
Best Buy has reduced carbon emissions by 51% since 2009
Best Buy has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint by 75% (over a 2009 baseline) by 2030 and to help customers reduce their own carbon emissions by 20% over the same period. In addition, Best Buy operates the largest consumer electronics recycling program in the country and has helped customers recycle more than 2 billion pounds of electronics. Barron’s ranked Best Buy No. 1 on its list of the 100 Most Sustainable Companies for 2019.
Boeing partners with local nonprofit to restore native forests in fire-ravaged areas
In the wake of the California wildfires, Boeing recognized a need to invest in restoration where employees live and work. Boeing and TreePeople, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit environmental advocacy group, officially launched Forest Aid, a new campaign to restore native forests in fire-ravaged areas, minimizing future fire risks and other environmental threats.
“At Boeing, we are in the business of building the future,” said John Blazey, vice president of Boeing Global Engagement. “That includes tackling real-world problems and leading in the communities where our employees live and work.”
Boeing’s $1 million investment will allow Forest Aid to launch with an initial four-year commitment targeting forested areas, such as Sylmar and other areas in Southern California. The campaign will work to replace invasive species — those most prone to catching fire and burning out of control — with native trees and other species.
“Through strategic partnerships with innovative nonprofits like TreePeople and the Forest Aid program, we are bringing local communities together to break the devastating inferno cycle and restore healthy native forests,” Blazey said.
CBRE project aims to tackle LA's homelessness crisis
In the summer of 2018, CBRE deployed four dozen interns on a project to help find answers to Los Angeles’s homelessness crisis – a challenge that deeply affects the city where their corporate headquarters is located. The interns identified underutilized city sites that might be ideal for (re)development, public-private partnerships to convert underutilized structures, the permitting process and revamped existing homeless shelters.
The interns leveraged CBRE’s data intelligence, research & analysis and their professionals’ collective network of relationships. The interns built a database that identified federal, state, county, city and private opportunities and brought them directly to the City and several private developers. They presented their findings to the newly formed Los Angeles Homeless Alliance, which includes for- and nonprofit organizations. These findings are helping to educate businesses on the ways that they can utilize their expertise to assist the City and County in alleviating the crisis.
CBRE commits to greenhouse gas emissions reduction target
CBRE makes environmental sustainability a priority in its own operations. In early 2019, CBRE committed to setting a science-based greenhouse gas emissions reduction target.
CBRE has the greatest impact by working with its clients to influence how buildings are built, sourced, managed, occupied and sold. CBRE’s Global Energy & Sustainability team provides comprehensive energy and sustainability services to its clients, focusing on fact-based outcomes. Services include data management, smart buildings systems integration, energy consulting, energy procurement solutions, certification services and sustainability consulting.
In 2018, CBRE registered and benchmarked an industry-record 6,418 buildings, representing more than 420 million square feet of managed assets, in the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR program. CBRE has been recognized as an EPA ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for 12 years in a row.
CBRE has completed more than 1,000 LEED certifications on behalf of its clients, in addition to other building certifications. In addition, the Green Building Adoption Index, created by CBRE and Maastricht University, documents the growth of green building certifications in the 30 largest U.S. office markets. This study was the first ever to measure the rise of these environmental recognitions in the commercial real estate market. The fifth annual study was published in 2018.
The CF Industries-backed 4R Plus program has helped Iowa farmers improve soil and water quality
Through a partnership with The Nature Conservancy, CF is helping to improve soil health and water quality across the state of Iowa. The program, called 4R Plus, is designed to increase awareness and understanding among Iowa’s farmers and crop advisers of two important farming practices: (1) 4R Nutrient Stewardship and (2) conservation. 4R Nutrient Stewardship refers to the concept of applying the right nutrient source at the right rate, right time and right place. The “Plus” in 4R Plus refers to a suite of in-field and edge-of-field conservation practices that increase soil resiliency and help to keep nutrients on fields and out of adjacent water bodies. When implemented effectively, 4R Plus practices will not only improve soil health and water quality, but also increase farmers’ yields and bottom lines.
“CF Industries, along with The Nature Conservancy, came together with a vision for a program that would empower Iowa farmers and their efforts to improve soil health,” says Tony Will, president and CEO of CF Industries. “We all have the same goal: to build upon the good work Iowa farmers are doing and provide them with more tools and resources to help them implement practices that enhance crop growth and boost yield potential and return on investment while safeguarding some of the best soil in the world."
Chevron donated $3.5 million to the American Red Cross to assist hurricane disaster relief
In the wake of recent natural disasters across the U.S., Chevron has contributed to several disaster relief funds. In 2017, Chevron contributed a total of $2 million to the American Red Cross to assist communities across the Southeast and Texas with efforts to recover from both Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Harvey. The company has a large retail presence, supplying more than 2,000 independently-owned Chevron and Texaco stations from a total of 17 terminals. In addition, Houston represents the single-largest concentration of Chevron employees globally, and the company has important business interests throughout Texas. A number of Chevron’s businesses are headquartered in Houston, including our exploration and production companies for North America, Africa and Latin America; our technology companies; pipeline, power and global procurement businesses; and the supply and trading function. In addition, many of Chevron’s major capital projects are planned and developed from Houston.
Chevron’s Fuel Your School program has provided nearly $50 million in funding to public school classrooms
Chevron’s Fuel Your School program helps fund public school classrooms. In 2018 alone, the program provided more than $5.7 million to help fund classroom projects in 2,883 public schools, benefiting nearly 800,000 students in 17 communities across the country. As part of this effort, in October 2018, every time consumers purchased eight or more gallons of fuel at participating Chevron or Texaco stations, Chevron donated $1, up to the maximum amount in each market, to help fund eligible classroom projects.
Chevron’s Fuel Your School program is a collaboration with DonorsChoose.org to help fund eligible classroom projects, including science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-focused projects that can bring innovative and real-life learning opportunities to students. Since its launch in 2010, the program has raised nearly $50 million and has helped fund 55,072 classroom projects in nearly 6,500 schools across the United States, supporting 34,568 teachers.
"Chevron’s Fuel Your School program helps provide the classroom resources teachers need to help students succeed in school and aspire to be future engineers and scientists.” - Dale Walsh, President of Chevron Americas Products

Chubb partners with The Nature Conservancy to mitigate the impacts of storms and rising sea levels in Miami-Dade County
In 2018, Chubb announced its partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to reduce the risk from storm impacts and rising sea levels along one of our country’s most vulnerable shorelines. The collaboration, funded by a $1 million grant from the Chubb Charitable Foundation, includes a restoration and resilience project in Miami-Dade County to demonstrate the flood protection benefits of nature-based solutions. The project is designed to increase protection from flooding and serve as a model that can be replicated in other coastal cities in the U.S. and globally.
With the support of Chubb and its Chubb Charitable Foundation, TNC has identified more than a dozen potential locations in Miami-Dade County in which natural and hybrid infrastructure could increase resilience to storms and rising sea levels. Science-based flood modeling and cost-benefit analyses of some of these sites will be used to identify a location where people and property may benefit most from a shoreline resilience project, and inform final site selection.
At the project site, methods to promote resilience through nature-based solutions may include the restoration of mangroves, creation of protective berms along the coastline, planting of native vegetation, removal of invasive species and the installation of artificial reefs. Miami ranks as the U.S. metropolitan area with the highest number of homes threatened by storm surge, as noted in a 2018 CoreLogic report, and the insured value of property on the Florida coast is approximately $2.9 trillion, according to AIR Worldwide.
The Nature Conservancy and the Chubb Charitable Foundation are committed to the implementation of natural solutions that can provide an effective piece in a broader resilience strategy for Miami and other coastal cities in which population growth and increased development will coincide with rising seas.
“Through our collaboration with TNC, we are looking to make a difference not only in the project area in Miami-Dade County, but to gain insights, rooted in science and practically tested, that can be replicated around the world.” - Evan G. Greenberg, Chairman and CEO of Chubb
Sustainably sourced priority ingredients in Coca-Cola products have surged from 8 percent to 44 percent since 2013
In 2013, Coca-Cola set a goal for 2020 to sustainably source their 14 global priority ingredients for their drinks. Since 2013, the percentage of ingredients certified to a sustainable agriculture standard has grown from 8 percent to 44 percent.
'Now, more than ever, stakeholders expect more of us. They want us to help find solutions and to make a measurable and meaningful difference in the world. Our sustainability efforts have always been strengthened by open dialogue with many stakeholders – our own employees, consumers, parents, customers, bottling partners, suppliers, governments, NGOs and shareowners. These diverse perspectives will continue to help shape our actions and how we implement initiatives around the world as we move forward on our journey. " - James Quincey and Bea Perez
Cummins deployed technicians to support recovery efforts in Florida and Puerto Rico following Hurricanes Irma and Maria
Cummins deployed 13 technicians from elsewhere in the Distribution Business to support Florida customers during Hurricane Irma. For its response to Maria, Cummins deployed four more technicians from other locations in the company to Puerto Rico.
The company frequently serviced three Cummins generators at the Puerto Rico Convention Center in San Juan, home to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s command center on the island as well as the largest shelter in the U.S. territory for those displaced by the storms. The generators, installed before Hurricanes Irma and Maria struck, ran around the clock.
In addition, Cummins employees fielded many calls and braved the elements to help customers. Here are just a few examples:
- An Orlando, Florida-based team worked with the company’s West Palm Beach branch to help Martin County install a generator to keep its emergency radio system running in the critical hours after Hurricane Irma struck.
- Cummins’ West Palm Beach and Miami branches worked together to locate, deliver and install a generator as Hurricane Irma was arriving for a customer needing to maintain power for medical reasons.
- Multiple Cummins teams in the days after the storm collaborated to quickly repair a utility truck headed to one of the hardest hit areas of Florida.
- Cummins teams across that state sent pallets of water with daily parts deliveries to aid customers and their communities hit hard by Irma.
Cummins also worked with Save the Children organization to raise thousands of dollars for disaster relief.
“While saying ‘thank you’ doesn’t feel sufficient, we can assure you it is genuine,” said Rich Freeland, President and COO, and Jenny Bush, Vice President, Cummins Sales and Service North America said in their note to employees. “Thank you for giving. Thank you for asking how you can help.”
John Deere partnered with Habitat for Humanity to repair and rebuild homes in Houston after Hurricane Harvey
John Deere teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to help recovery efforts in Houston, Texas, within 24 hours of Hurricane Harvey making landfall, through a project called Habitat Hammers Back. The effort was aimed at renovating or rebuilding homes destroyed by three hurricanes that hit the Gulf Coast in 2017 — hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.
John Deere committed $1 million to the cause and John Deere employees, including those from Deere dealerships, volunteered to help. Over 30 Deere and dealer volunteers have helped rebuild homes damaged by the hurricanes, providing carpentry work, putting in baseboards, painting, and landscaping.
In addition, John Deere Financial postponed payments for customers’ equipment while they worked to get their businesses running again.
“After these hurricanes, our hearts and minds were with the people of Texas and Florida, and we wanted to give back in a meaningful way,” said Mara Downing, director of Global Brand Management and Corporate Citizenship at Deere. “We thought a partnership with Habitat for Humanity was the best opportunity for us to do that. This partnership will change the lives of hurricane victims by rebuilding their homes and rebuilding their lives.”
“People don’t have to be nice to you,” said Tiesha Waddy, whose Arcola, Texas home was destroyed after Hurricane Harvey. “People don’t have to be kind to you. They make choices. And that makes a difference. So, I’m very grateful and humbled. Thank you.”
Dell Technologies is helping increase the number of women of color with computing degrees through Reboot Representation
Dell recently joined the Reboot Representation coalition started by Pivotal Ventures, an investment and incubation company created by Melinda Gates. Reboot seeks to double the number of women in color graduating with computing degrees by 2025. Dell joins this effort as a founding member alongside Intel, Microsoft, Adobe and Oath. Collectively, 12 tech companies have committed more than $12 million to this goal, which represents a 30x increase in funding.
“It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the inaugural chair of the Reboot Representation Tech Coalition. Without the intervention of programs like Reboot, the number of women of color graduating with computing degrees would not double until 2052. We cannot afford to leave that exceptional talent and the perspectives they bring behind at a time when every company is becoming a tech company.” - Brian Reaves, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Dell Technologies
Employees save $12 million in gas and reduce carbon footprints via Dell Technologies flexible work initiatives
After doing extensive research on their employees’ commute patterns and fuel usage, Dell expanded its work-from-home initiatives to help reduce employees’ carbon footprint by a total of 35,000 metric tons of CO2e every year and helping them save over $12M in gasoline costs.
“There are many benefits of a flexible work policy,” said John Pflueger, Principal environmental strategist for Dell Technologies. “The primary reasons are issues related more to work-life balance, talent recruitment and allowing team members to work where, how and when is most productive for them. But we found sustainability-related benefits are an important side effect.”
1 million trees were planted and 2,000 acres of land were restored by Dell Technologies’s Plant a Tree program
In 2008, Dell set a goal of planting 1M trees by 2020 and reached their goal in 2017, having restored 2,000 acres of land. They are continuing to support these efforts through donations and the Plant a Tree program.
“Collaboration is critical to addressing so many environmental challenges, “ said John Pflueger, Principle Environmental Strategist, Dell Technologies. “Thanks to the dedication of our customers, the Plant a Tree program has enabled restoration and reforestation efforts in many of the most critical environments across the globe.”
Duke Energy's Cooling Assistance program assists North and South Carolina residents who need help with summer bills
Duke Energy has 7 customer assistance programs. One program, Cooling Assistance—Carolinas, provides financial assistance to Carolinas residents who need help with winter heating bills. Contributions from customers, employees and their Foundation are matched dollar-for-dollar up to $500,000.
Duke Energy's Powerful Communities awarded $440,000 in grants to 30 K-12 schools in Indiana
Duke Energy Foundation’s “Powerful Communities” program awarded over $440,000 for K-12 grants to more than 30 schools and other educational organizations in 2019. The schools and programs receiving grants include many summer reading initiatives, but they also feature a wide variety of science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, programs aimed at all age groups. One example is the Indiana 4-H Foundation which will use its grant to help local 4-H clubs give members opportunities in engineering design, computer programming and other STEM-related skills.
“Teachers are some of the most dedicated professionals I know, but they need resources to help students learn effectively. We are proud to award these grants to help keep vital resources flowing into K-12 classrooms and programs.” -Stan Pinegar, Duke Energy state president for Indiana
Eastman promotes improved access to healthy, garden-grown foods and sustainable agriculture in Appalachian communities in Tennessee and Virginia
In partnership with Appalachian Sustainable Development (ASD), Eastman supports and promotes improved access to healthy, garden-grown foods and sustainable agriculture and forestry in areas of Virginia and Tennessee. Currently, ASD supports nine programs that empower farmers and promote sustainability efforts. Eastman Foundation also participates in the ASD’s “Rooted in Appalachia” program by hosting a weekly farmers market at its Tennessee operations and corporate campus.
With numerous programs in place, ASD empowers and educates multiple generations of community members and provides tools needed to fight poverty, revitalize communities, and protect natural resources. This includes a rural food hub, called Appalachian Harvest, that connects farmers to large wholesale markets and distributes local produce from Maryland to Georgia.
Eastman partnership provides valuable workforce training to students for careers in advanced manufacturing
In 2008, Eastman helped launch the Advanced Manufacturing Partnership (AMP), a public-private partnership to construct a Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing (RCAM) and develop a robust workforce training partnership to help students learn advanced manufacturing skills. The primary objectives of the AMP/RCAM were to meet employers’ skilled labor needs, promote advanced manufacturing careers and bring unique and differentiating workforce development capabilities to support regional economic development efforts.
Eastman worked with Northeast State Community College and a number of other partners to develop RCAM, a 26,000-square-foot training facility that offers associate of applied science degrees and technical certificate programs in general technology, chemical process operations, electromechanical technology (mechatronics), electrical technology, welding/metal fabrication and customized continuing education training for regional manufacturers.
Eastman endowed a Workforce Development Scholarship Program that provides funding to students pursuing associate of applied science degrees and technical certificates in designated programs. The scholarship criteria require applicants to apply to Northeast State, meet all college entrance requirements, apply for financial assistance, and enroll in at least six hours in a designated degree or certificate program. Approved academic concentrations are machine tool, welding/metal fabrication, electrical technology, electromechanical technology and chemical process operations.
RCAM is an “open” facility, and any student, regardless of industry affiliation, can participate. Programs are consistently being tailored to meet employers’ needs.
The AMP/RCAM is a collaboration of Eastman, Northeast State Community College, Domtar Paper Company, the City of Kingsport, the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, and the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, as well as several other industry partners that share in Eastman’s belief that a well-structured partnership of government, business and education works.
Having a robust pipeline of talented workers is tied directly to Eastman’s ability to innovate and grow. RCAM delivers world-class instruction and customized training quickly, continually adapting to meet the needs and priorities of our region’s growing manufacturing employer base — regardless of the size and scale of operations. —Cari Parker, Vice President of Manufacturing, Eastman
ExxonMobil investments over the past 20 years have improved malaria awareness and access to treatment
ExxonMobil has invested more than $170 million over almost 20 years to help fight malaria. The investments support organizations that develop public awareness, distribute bed nets and treatments and train local health workers to fight malaria.
ExxonMobil employees secured Texas energy infrastructure during and after Hurricane Harvey
As Hurricane Harvey pounded Southeast Texas, many ExxonMobil employees coordinated the security of some of the country’s most critical energy assets from their bedrooms upstairs, while their living rooms downstairs flooded. In many cases, employees pored over technical blueprints of the Baytown and Beaumont facilities while floodwaters poured through their kitchens. Those working from home relayed their expertise to their colleagues who were temporarily living in those refineries, separated from their families.
“While their homes were being flooded, they were in our [Baytown] refinery, working to keep critical processes up and running so that when the storm passed, we could start the recovery pretty quickly.” -ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods
EY’s involvement with four leading organizations helps provide youth in our local communities access to mentoring, college access support and job skills
EY strives to build a better working world by providing youth in our local communities with access to mentoring, college access support and job skills. EY works closely with four Focus Organizations: Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Junior Achievement, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship and United Way. The company focuses on these nonprofits because their missions align closely with EY’s corporate responsibility strategy of supporting education, entrepreneurs and equity in the workforce. Collaborating with Focus Organizations helps EY maximize the impact of volunteer time and charitable giving to local communities across the country.
“EY is committed to supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to ensure we help young people prepare for and succeed in school and in all aspects of life. I know firsthand the impact the Clubs can make in a student’s life and have seen that they are truly changing the trajectory of countless students. I couldn’t be prouder of EY’s commitment to provide meaningful support to such deserving Club Kids." - Kevin Cole, Partner, Ernst & Young LLP, Boys & Girls Clubs of America Midwest Regional board member and EY-BGCA relationship partner
“Our relationship with Junior Achievement empowers us to develop purpose-driven leaders at EY. Each year, thousands of EY volunteers help JA deliver on its mission to raise financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work-readiness through skills-based volunteering in schools and community agencies, including as part of EY Connect Day, our annual day of service.” - Gary Kozlowski, Partner, Ernst & Young LLP, Junior Achievement of New York board member and EY-JA relationship partner
“Imagine if we could activate the entrepreneurial mindset of an entire generation. This is NFTE’s mission, and with our continued focus on engaging in the classroom, we’ll help them do exactly that. Our shared investment of talent and treasure is invaluable, and together we’re helping build a better working world, one youth at a time!” - Mike Kacsmar, Partner, Ernst & Young LLP, NFTE National board member and EY-NFTE relationship partner
“EY is proud to support the United Way’s mission to ‘improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good.’ Through our annual workplace funding campaigns, EY Connect Day volunteer activities, and the countless other hours that our talented EY people give to the United Way, we are building a better working world one community at a time. Together, we CAN make a difference!” - Lisa Shepard, Partner, Ernst & Young LLP and Valley of the Sun United Way board member
EY’s Entrepreneurial Winning Women program provides women entrepreneurs resources to grow their businesses
EY’s Entrepreneurial Winning Women program identifies promising women entrepreneurs and connects them with the resources and knowledge to help them scale their businesses.
According to an independent impact assessment directed by the Babson College Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership, North America program participant companies’ total 2014 revenue was 54 percent higher than their total revenues in the years before they joined the program. Individual participants average 20 percent revenue growth annually; in the second year of participation, however, their companies have been known to grow up to 50 percent.
"The EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women program has given me access to people and resources I never had, public visibility beyond my wildest imagination and a caring community that makes me feel truly supported." - Nikki Barua, Founder and CEO BeyondCurious, US
FedEx enables hope, change and new possibilities around the world through their 50 by 50 program
FedEx has announced the next stage of its global community engagement program – FedEx Cares 50 by 50, a new journey to deliver hope, change and new possibilities for 50 million people by the company’s 50th anniversary in 2023. FedEx launched the new strategy after exceeding its goal to invest $200 million in 200 global communities by 2020 six months early.
FedEx provides pathways to meaningful employment for underserved populations, from youth aged 16 to 24 to veterans
FedEx is committed to helping underserved youths and their families navigate the college application process, training people for in-demand jobs like tech and logistics and helping individuals access employment through credential programs.
For example, FedEx supports the 100,000 Opportunities Initiative and My Brother’s Keeper Alliance along with community organizations, foundations and other employers to connect youths aged 16 to 24 with interview skills and jobs.
In addition, FedEx develops job training and placement initiatives through relationships with the National Urban League, LeadersUp, Base Camp Coding Academy and Usher’s New Look. FedEx also makes job skills training more accessible for women through online tools and a mobile app with Dress for Success. For former members of the armed services, FedEx connects veterans, transitioning service members and their spouses with job opportunities via the company’s membership in the Hiring Our Heroes Veteran Employment Advisory Council.
FedEx also invests in Opportunity@Work and the TechHire initiative to create a national database for connecting job seekers and tech employers while increasing the effectiveness of training programs.
In the wake of Hurricane Michael, FedEx committed transportation support and cash to deliver critical aid and supplies
FedEx committed $1 million in cash and transportation support to deliver critical aid and supplies in the wake of Hurricane Michael in addition to the $1 million the company had already pledged after Hurricane Florence.
FIS employees log over 14,000 hours of volunteer time through the company's volunteer program
FIS employees demonstrate their commitment to community service and engagement by regularly volunteering their own time and money in support of the organizations nearest and dearest to their hearts. The FIS Volunteer Program grants eight hours of paid volunteer time per year to employees in most regions to encourage civic involvement. In 2018, employees logged more than 14,000 hours of volunteer time.
When natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, etc., strike, employees answer the call for help with monetary donations, supplies and volunteer hours.
Flex provides relief for communities in the wake of natural disasters
Driving the global supply chain and manufacturing company’s philanthropic efforts, the Flex Foundation supports and fosters positive change for the many communities where Flex, its customers, suppliers and partners operate. This includes lending a helping hand to neighboring communities when a devastating natural disaster strikes. The foundation not only invites employees to personally contribute to natural disaster aid activities but also donates to non-profits spearheading local relief efforts, like Save the Children, the Red Cross, the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, and Habitat for Humanity, among others. In response to catastrophic events, the foundation supported natural disaster victims and reconstruction efforts by:
– Donating $25,000 to the Hurricane Maria Children’s Relief Fund in Puerto Rico.
– Providing $25,000 to the Salvation Army and matching employee donations up to $40,000 to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana.
– Awarding a $20,000 grant to the Northern California Fire Fund, assisting several counties impacted by the Northern California Firestorm.
– Contributing a variety of grants and donations to impacted areas in Mexico, China, Japan, the UK, Philippines, Indonesia and the U.S.
Since 2017, the Flex Foundation has awarded 17 grants and donated over $650,000 to assist more than 300,000 people impacted by natural disasters.
“Your support, pooled with other resources, has enabled Save the Children to address urgent needs among children and their families in shelters and battered communities in Puerto Rico.” – Save the Children

The Flex Foundation, in collaboration with non-profit organizations, supports natural disaster relief resources and training.
Women entrepreneurs launch small businesses with Freeport-McMoRan’s DreamBuilder program
Freeport-McMoRan created the “DreamBuilder – The Women’s Business Creator,” an online entrepreneurship education and training program to help women start and grow small businesses. Developed in partnership with Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University and launched in 2011, the program offers 12 courses on the various aspects of running a successful small business, including planning, marketing, pricing, management, accounting, managing risk, finding funding, setting goals and more. The program was designed to create equal opportunity for women to gain access to small business education by making it easy for them to use and complete among other responsibilities.
The program is free to use, self-paced and available in both English and Spanish. Freeport-McMoRan and Thunderbird partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration to implement the program in 23 Women’s Business Centers across the country, resulting in more than 20,000 registered learners proceeding through the program and more than 1,800 graduates. The latest survey indicates 55.6 percent of participants have increased sales, 34 percent hired additional employees and 66 percent pay themselves a salary (as compared to only 18 percent who did prior).
As of March 30, 2019, there have been more than 41,000 registered learners and more than 4,250 graduates from 41 countries with an average graduation rate of 10-12 percent.
Goldman Sachs’ UIG project invested $7 billion to revitalize underserved American communities
Goldman Sachs’ Urban Investment Group (UIG) focuses on development projects to revitalize local communities. Goldman Sachs partners with local leaders and non-profits on comprehensive community development that supports the fundamental building blocks of opportunity, including affordable housing, quality education and health care, and growth capital for social enterprises and small businesses. Since 2001, the Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group has committed $7 billion to underserved American communities.
For example, Goldman Sachs’ UIG has invested over $300 million in the City of New Orleans. The UIG’s integrated, place-based approach has provided more than 1450 units of critically needed housing, over 1300 new jobs, services to low-income residents, and education and capital for over 400 small businesses.
Goldman Sachs' invests in the success of women-led businesses
Among entrepreneurs, women receive far less venture capital funding than men do. Goldman Sachs’ Launch With GS is a commitment to invest $500M in women-led companies and investment managers. Within the first year of the program, the company committed more than $100M to women-led businesses.
Goldman Sachs’ Global Markets Institute has found that women who do not raise enough money at the outset can quickly find themselves at a competitive disadvantage. They may not have the firepower to prove that their business concepts work, to iterate or pivot or to build the momentum necessary to raise more money in the future.
Goldman Sachs' 10,000 Small Businesses Program helps upstart and emerging enterprises succeed
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is a program to support small businesses by providing them with education, access to capital, and a network of advisors and peers.
67% of 10,000 Small Business graduates have reported increasing revenues 6 months after graduating, 47% reported creating new jobs six months after graduating and 88% are doing business with each other. The program has a 98% completion rate. To date, more than 8,200 business owners have graduated from the program across all 50 states in the US, Puerto Rico and Washington D.C.
Guardian Life Insurance is helping bring quality dental care to underserved communities
Guardian launched a multi-year partnership with Children’s Health Fund and committed $1 million over two years to bring quality dental care to children in underserved communities. To date, the “Guardians of the Smile” program has supported more than 11,000 dental encounters for children in underserved communities. Guardian is also partnering with Dental LifeLine Network to deliver services to medically fragile and elderly patients that cannot afford dental services and need complex care. In 2018 DLN served over 10,000 people who received $26.2 million of treatment services.
Guardian Life Insurance launched Green Teams to educate and activate employees in sustainable practices in the workplace
Guardian has launched Green Teams across the company which educate and activate employees in sustainable practices in the workplace. These teams have, enlarged office recycling practices, hosted community electronic recycling days, and provided employees with the opportunity to learn about sustainable farming and purchase shares from local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs from local farms who practice sustainable farming.
Hurricane Irma victims employed by L3Harris Technologies were matched with volunteers for assistance
In response to Hurricane Irma, L3Harris began a volunteer emergency management program which assists in matching employees in need prior to or in the aftermath of a crisis or disaster with employee volunteering to assist. Relief was provided to 45 employees needing assistance in the aftermath of the hurricane. Each time the program is used, the number of employees volunteering to help doubles the number of those in need.
“Thank you to the nine volunteers that helped put my fence back and make my backyard safe again after Irma. Please know that words are not enough to express my extreme gratitude, but it's all I have. So, thank you all from the bottom of my heart,”said an L3Harris employee who received assistance from her colleagues after Hurricane Irma.
Equipment supplied by L3Harris technicians restored communications to hurricane victims
L3Harris’ Public Safety and Professional Communications business unit supported disaster relief after Hurricane Maria, Irma and Harvey. Teams of technicians delivered radios and mobile communications equipment to Puerto Rico, Florida and Texas to help restore communications. In addition, L3Harris donated to the American Red Cross in response to Hurricanes Maria and Harvey and matched employees’ donations as well.
“These teams were running on minimal hours of sleep doing whatever they had to do to get critical communications restored,” said Nino DiCosmo, president of L3Harris Public Safety and Professional Communications. “And let’s not forget many of these folks live in the middle of this disaster and are going through it with their own families. It’s truly amazing to watch the commitment and dedication of our teams.”
L3Harris Corporation technology is restoring and preserving Florida’s India River Lagoon
As a collaborative volunteer project with Brevard Zoo to restore the Indian River Lagoon in central Florida, L3Harris employees built a machine that reduces the time it takes to bag oysters from several minutes to under 10 seconds. This machine helped boost efforts to restore and preserve the India River Lagoon, which had been plagued by algae blooms and fish kills in recent years. The innovative design of the machine allows 6 volunteers to now do the job of 40.
"The use of oyster reefs is growing around the country as coastal communities learn more about the positive impacts of living shorelines. So, this ingenious machine is not only going to allow us to redouble our efforts to help re-establish oyster beds and restore the lagoon, but could be used nationally," Brevard Zoo Executive Director Keith Winsten said. "We are grateful to our L3Harris partners and these employees who volunteered to support a natural resource that is so important to our community."
Hearst uses its platforms around the country to support communities
Hearst Television’s 34 stations and Hearst Newspapers’ 24 dailies and 52 weeklies are committed to serving their local communities in good times and bad. When disaster’s strike, Hearst’s journalists are the “first informers” on the ground, reporting on situations as they unfold. As integral members of their communities, the teams also use their platforms to raise critical funds for those in need. In 2018, Hearst Television telethons raised more than $6 million. In San Francisco, the San Francisco Chronicle’s Season of Sharing Fund raises millions each year to help Bay Area families in times of crisis, while in Albany, the Times Union Hope Fund supports at-risk children in the region.
“Our journalists have covered every variety of natural disaster… local news is on the front line in the community when trouble strikes.” – Steve Swartz, President & CEO, Hearst
Women-led startups innovate in media, information and services through HearstLab
HearstLab is a unique greenhouse for nurturing early-stage, women-led startups innovating across media, business information, technology and services whose companies takes advantage of synergies with Hearst’s 360+ businesses. Hearst invests in these companies and hosts their workspaces at Hearst Tower. HearstLab companies are supported by a diverse group of leaders and operators from across Hearst, who advise founders on building effective teams and assist with enterprise deals, privacy and security expertise, legal and financial services, content, advertising, distribution, and other relevant business and creative needs. At the heart of that support are the HearstLab Scouts, a group of women leaders inside Hearst who have been integral to conceiving and building HearstLab and making it successful. HearstLab currently fosters a community of 17 women-led startups.
“Success for us is giving our companies the room to grow on their terms.” – Eve Burton, SVP & Chief Legal Officer, Hearst and HearstLab Chairwoman
When Natural Disasters strike, Home Depot activates their merchandising, supply chain and operations teams ensuring emergency supplies are on hand to help repair and rebuild
During big storms, Home Depot’s merchandising, supply chain and operations teams work around the clock in a complex effort to move necessary product and equipment to stores caught in the path of hurricanes, blizzards, tornadoes, wildfires and other crippling events. They connect with the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, state agencies, first responders, relief organizations and others to ensure we receive and provide credible information.
The Honeywell Humanitarian Relief Fund (HHRF) delivers immediate and direct financial assistance to employees and communities when natural disasters strike
When a natural disaster strikes, employee donations deliver immediate and direct financial assistance to employees and communities. The Honeyewell Humanitarian Relief Fund (HHRF) nonprofit organization has been fully funded by our employees since 2005. Thousands have donated more than $13.7 million to help victims of natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, fires, flooding and hurricanes.
Huntington Ingalls employees take time to help their local communities
Huntington Ingalls celebrates volunteerism by annually recognizing individual employees who devote time to positively transforming their communities.
“I have strived to continue to make a difference with each thing we do as an organization [...] to help change the world." - Cynthia Allen-Whyte, an employee in HII’s corporate office.
NGO experts partner with IBM scientists and engineers to tackle social challenges
IBM’s Science for Social Good initiative links company scientists and engineers with non-governmental organization (NGO) subject-matter experts to solve social challenges.
ITC is investing in quality of life improvements in the communities in which they operate
ITC recently supported a major revitalization project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, home to ITC Midwest’s headquarters. The project will link two parts of the city now split by the Cedar River via a pedestrian and biking bridge.
ITC helped fund a YMCA after-school program in Cadillac, MI, for at-risk youth
ITC provided the YMCA of Cadillac, Michigan, a charitable grant to support the YMCA’s after-school programming for at-risk youth.
Johnson & Johnson invests millions in support of diverse suppliers
Johnson and Johnson’s purchases from disabled veteran owned businesses grew by over 64% in 2017, from $8.4M in 2016 to 13.8M in 2017. Johnson and Johnson’s purchases from Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender businesses is approaching $1M.
JPMorgan Chase's PRO Neighborhoods initiative has contributed $125 million to revitalize communities
JPMC has contributed $125 million through its Partnerships for Raising Opportunity in Neighborhoods (PRO Neighborhoods) initiative, helping affordable housing advocates and investors like Aaron Mallory, founder of nonprofit GRO Community, rehabilitate blighted neighborhoods in Chicago and targeted cities across the U.S.
More than 1,000 military families have received mortgage-free homes from JPMorgan Chase
Through the firm’s Military Home Awards Program, JPMC has provided more than 1,000 mortgage-free homes to military families.
JPMorgan Chase is investing $150M to support women-, minority- and veteran-owned small businesses
JPMorgan Chase has committed $150 million to support women, minority and veteran-owned small businesses as part of its Small Business Forward initiative.
56,000 JPMorgan Chase employees contributed 383,000 volunteer hours for 3,800 projects in 2018
In 2018, roughly 56,000 JPMC employees contributed 383,000 skills-based volunteer hours for approximately 3,800 projects, including company initiatives like Technology for Social Good (meeting nonprofit technology needs), the Fellowship Initiative (mentoring disadvantaged young men of color) and the Service Corps (expanding nonprofit service capacity).
KeyBank investments are bringing strength to rural and low-to-moderate income communities
KeyBank’s National Community Benefits Plan, launched in 2017, has led to more than $7 billion in investment through community development and affordable housing, mortgage and small business lending, and transformative philanthropy. Through 2018, KeyBank has provided $830 million in small business lending targeted to rural and low-to-moderate income communities.
“At KeyBank, we have a deep commitment to the communities we proudly serve. We believe the basis of change lies in communities and that through meaningful investments, partnerships, and grants, transformational outcomes are possible.” – Beth Mooney, CEO and Chairman, KeyCorp
KeyBank invests heavily in supplier diversity, spending more than $1B since 2001
KeyBank has spent more than $1 billion with diverse suppliers (suppliers that “are at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by U.S. citizens who are diverse”) since 2001, and the company encourages its non-diverse suppliers to source from diverse suppliers themselves.
“KeyBank is committed to providing opportunities for diverse businesses. We recognize the importance of having a diverse supplier base that reflects our clients and customers in the areas we proudly serve.” – Kim Manigault, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer
KeyBank is supporting the communities in which it operates through grants that are aimed at increasing high school and postsecondary completion rates
KeyBank has reaffirmed its commitment to helping communities thrive in Western New York through their $1,000,000 grant to Say Yes Buffalo, a program aimed at increasing high school and postsecondary completion rates.
"KeyBank has been operating in New York for 190 years and 170 years in Buffalo. To us, this gift is about honoring that legacy but, more important, building the future. It is about creating opportunities for students in Western New York to thrive on their own terms and to reinvest their successes with their families, friends and communities." - Beth Mooney, Chairman and CEO
Responding to the U.S. opioid epidemic, Leidos CEO Roger Krone created a CEO pledge where over 60 executives have now committed to business practices that will help save lives
Inspired by the personal story of the son of an employee, CEO Roger Krone committed Leidos to addressing the opioid epidemic, including a CEO Pledge to take action, philanthropic partnerships and even distributing prescription disposal kits.

“I reached out to our CEO’s office about the possibility of Leidos helping address this epidemic head-on, and the response from Roger was, ‘we’re all in John, we’re all in,” said John Hindman, Leidos.
Leidos is tackling the opioid crisis in the communities where their employees live and work
Leidos started close to home when it came to tackling the opioid crisis. The company distributed 100,000 Deterra™ drug deactivation kits to Maryland first responders and community organizations in the state where roughly 20 percent of their employees reside.
“We hope this partnership will be a model for other communities and companies of how to not only enhance local prevention efforts, but also increase community awareness about the dangers of substance use,” said Leidos Chairman and CEO Roger Krone.
Lockheed Martin scientists and engineers are leveraging the power of AI and autonomy to deliver greater value to society
In an AI-enhanced future, humans will become better at everything; they’ll also become safer, less vulnerable to danger. That’s why Lockheed Martin continues to invest in and expand AI and autonomy capabilities. To help push the boundaries of AI, Lockheed Martin announced in September 2018 the AlphaPilot Innovation Challenge in partnership with the Drone Racing League. AlphaPilot is the first-ever fully autonomous, AI drone racing competition with $2million in prizes. Races start in the fall of 2019.
AlphaPilot Innovation Challenge Program: Lockheed Martin and Drone Racing League announced an innovation competition, challenging teams to develop artificial intelligence (AI) technology that will enable an autonomous drone to race a pilot-operated drone – and win. Participating teams will compete in a series of challenges for their share of over $2 million in prizes.
The AlphaPilot Innovation Challenge enlists university students, technologists, coders and drone enthusiasts to push the boundaries of AI, machine learning and fully autonomous flight.
The AlphaPilot challenge aims to accelerate the development and testing of fully autonomous drone technologies. AlphaPilot participants will design an artificial intelligence/machine learning framework, powered by the NVIDIA Jetson platform for AI at the edge, capable of flying a drone – without any pre-programming or human intervention – through challenging multi-dimensional race courses in DRL’s new Artificial Intelligence Robotic Racing Circuit.
"At Lockheed Martin, we're already accelerating AI-enabled autonomous technologies that help astronauts, military service personnel and first responders do demanding, dangerous jobs more safely and efficiently. Through our Innovation Challenge, we look forward to working with these teams at the boundaries of AI and fully autonomous flight, and digitally transforming the way we fight wildfires, orchestrate disaster-and-recovery operations and support our front-line service personnel." Lockheed Martin Chief Technology Officer Keoki Jackson
Lockheed Martin invests more than $26 million annually in priority areas, including STEM education and military, veteran outreach
Lockheed Martin invests more than $26 million worldwide to nonprofit organizations, focusing on STEM education and military/veteran causes. In addition, employees donate $11.7 million annually to various organizations through workplace-giving campaigns and employee-focused programs.
"STEM education is critical to America's national security and economy – without the right technical talent, we risk losing our competitive advantage. Technology companies like Lockheed Martin play an important role in helping to inspire and encourage the next generation of technical talent. With our Generation Beyond program, we're challenging high school students to think differently, take risks, innovate and collaborate – skills that are necessary to succeed in a fast-moving, global high-tech economy." -Jeff Babione, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works
Lockheed Martin employees log more than 785,000 volunteer hours, supporting local communities
With approximately 105,000 employees across the globe, the impact of Lockheed Martin’s team through community service is vast. This year, 2,418 Lockheed Martin employees were honored with a President’s Volunteer Service Award for their substantial work in 2018. Twenty-three of those also received the prestigious Lifetime Service Award for 4,000 or more hours.
“I’m working on building a legacy. I’ve had great opportunities with Lockheed Martin, so by leading important local events like Otronicon and traveling to different locations, I hope to spread interest in STEM careers.” Pat Camilo, a Lockheed Martin employee who logs more than 120 volunteer hours a year
“My first time volunteering at the VA Hospital coffee station was by far one of my most humbling and rewarding experiences. The Vets and their families are so appreciative for that cup of coffee and donut, even though many of them are suffering. It makes you realize that life is not to be taken for granted.” - Cheri Dickens, Lockheed Martin employee and volunteer
Marathon Oil provides nutritious meals to U.S. children at risk of hunger
Marathon Oil fights hunger in its communities by supporting the Houston Food Bank, Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, San Antonio Food Bank and Great Plains Food Bank in Dickinson, North Dakota. In 2018, Marathon Oil sponsored Backpack Buddy programs in Houston, Oklahoma City and Dickinson to give children at-risk of hunger outside of school reliable, nutritious foods on the weekend. In total, Marathon Oil provided approximately 140,000 nutritious meals to those in need.
Following Hurricane Maria, the Marriott Disaster Relief Fund provided over $490,000 to purchase critical supplies for Puerto Rican employees
In Puerto Rico, in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Marriott expanded its work with World Central Kitchen (WCK) to assist their mission to feed Puerto Ricans in need. The Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, for example, served as World Central Kitchen (WCK)’s primary San Juan headquarters from late 2017 through early 2018. Marriott associates also volunteered with WCK to prepare hot meals and sandwiches, providing over 45,000 meals throughout 2017-2018. To support Marriott associates and communities in-need on the island, the Marriott Disaster Relief Fund provided more than $490K in funding to purchase critical supplies, including generators, mosquito nets, tarps, and toiletries.
“…Puerto Rico will rise again, together with Marriott.” – Isabel Normandia, Room Attendant, San Juan Marriott & Stellaris Casino
In 2018, more than 13,000 McKesson employees and their children in 150 locations participated in its annual volunteer event to create care packages for cancer patients
McKesson hosts Community Days, a three-week-long companywide volunteer initiative. From October 1-21, 2018, more than 13,000 McKesson employees and their children in 150 locations across the U.S. and Canada participated in the annual Community Days volunteer event to create care packages for cancer patients. Employee volunteers created 19,000 care packages, which included fleece blankets, journals filled with affirmations and handwritten notes of encouragement.

McKesson helps communities through disasters
In 2017 and 2018, hundreds of thousands found themselves in the paths of Hurricanes Harvey and Michael. When emergencies strike, McKesson stands by its employees, customers and communities.
For example, in August 2017, McKesson Corporation and the McKesson Foundation announced a commitment of $100,000 in financial support to nonprofit Direct Relief and $150,000 in-kind donation of medical supplies to World Vision. The donations were used by the two organizations to provide disaster response to those affected by Hurricane Harvey in the Houston, TX area. In addition, McKesson matched donations made by its employees through the company’s donation matching program. Altogether, McKesson’s donations totaled more than $300,000.
Micron's company-wide rapid fundraising campaigns raised more than $160,000 in response to California wildfires
Company-wide campaigns and support for tragedies and natural disasters were set up quickly in response to a variety of issues, including the 2017 and 2018 California wildfires. Micron raised more than $160,000 for the California wildfire fund of the American Red Cross.
Motorola Solutions Foundation supports public safety programs for safer cities
Motorola Solutions supports public safety customers around the world with industry-leading technology solutions. At the same time, the Motorola Solutions Foundation, the company’s charitable and philanthropic arm, supports programming to help create safer cities and thriving communities.
In the last 10 years, the Foundation has granted over $55 million to public safety programs that enhance community-policing relations, increase first responder effectiveness, support families of fallen first responders and improve safety education for the general public.
New York Life Foundation and StoryCorps partner to launch Road to Resilience: memories that move us forward, a project for childhood bereavement providers
The New York Life Foundation partnered with StoryCorps to leverage the power of stories and storytelling to help children cope with the death of a parent, sibling, or loved one. Through Road to Resilience: Memories that Move Us Forward, StoryCorps partnered with six bereavement support organizations to provide opportunities for children, teens and their families to preserve memories of their loved ones, share their grief journeys, or simply to record themselves as they are. Each partner organization received equipment, on-site training, program support, promotional materials and other resources to help them embed the StoryCorps interview model into their current services. As part of this partnership, the New York Life Foundation is also funding the creation of a toolkit for bereavement centers across the country to use to create their own stories.
“Creating opportunities for children in grief, their families, and caregivers to record, preserve, and share their stories helps foster meaningful conversations about death and the impact it has on children and families. Our partnership with StoryCorps seeks to heighten awareness of childhood bereavement while focusing on resiliency and positive responses to death through personal voice and story.” - Maria Collins, vice president, New York Life Foundation
New York Life's corporate volunteer program develops and promotes opportunities for its workforce to serve their communities
In 1998, New York Life created its corporate volunteer program, Volunteers for Good, which develops and promotes volunteer opportunities for its workforce to serve the communities where they work and live. Giving time and expertise, they collaborate with hundreds of charitable organizations and help coordinate volunteer projects every year to address community needs across the country.
New York Life’s Corporate Responsibility Department works with their Volunteer Coordinators from across the country to mobilize their workforce in a dedicated Month of Service every September. In 2018, 1,800 employees and agents from 65 offices provided 7,200 hours of service.
Each holiday season, New York Life employees and agents participate in activities like “adopting” senior citizens and families, providing gifts and helping with holiday celebrations to brighten the season. In 2018, New York Life agents and employees from 60 offices across the country completed projects during our Season of Giving.
“Serving others in the communities where we live and work is the essence of our business and one of the core programs of the New York Life Foundation. Our Volunteers for Good initiative supports employees’ ability to make a positive impact while at the same time offering individual, team and community-level grants designed to amplify their efforts.” - Heather Nesle, president, New York Life Foundation



In partnership with Habitat for Humanity and other organizations, Novelis' recycling efforts help fund new homes
With its “Recycle For Good” initiative, Novelis partnered with Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and Mercedes-Benz Stadium to encourage recycling. Novelis collects aluminum bottles and cans at the stadium, recycles them at a local plant, and uses the value of the aluminum to fund a Habitat for Humanity home. For every three million aluminum bottles and cans recycled at the stadium, Novelis funds an entire Habitat for Humanity home. Currently, Novelis is on the way to funding a third home and just recently brought its “Recycle For Good” initiative to the 2019 Kentucky Derby.
NRG Energy champions employee health through PostitiveNRG philanthropic program
NRG Energy champions the health and well-being of employees by making healthy nutrition easy and encouraging physical activity. PositiveNRG, NRG’s philanthropic program, in partnership with Human Resources, brings local farming into the office by providing a stipend to those who sign up for Community Supported Agriculture programs within a 50 mile radius from company locations. This model allows employees to have access to fresh, healthy local fare while supporting local farmers. Employees who are interested in participating in local runs and other physical activities that raise money for local non-profits are also encouraged; NRG provides team-centric training and matches donations to the charitable cause.
“We are working to foster an environment where employees can thrive. By aiming a portion of NRG’s philanthropic effort to community supported agriculture, we’re helping to provide our workforce with the freshest and nutritious produce while supporting farming in our local community.” – Jennifer Brunelle, Director, PositiveNRG
In 2018, North American Oracle employees contributed over 30,000 hours to their communities
In 2018, 12,260 North American Oracle employees completed 558 volunteer projects, representing a contribution of 31,083 hours.
Pfizer among companies to lead the charge on stabilizing global temperatures
As a long-time reducer of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), Pfizer recognizes that voluntary actions alone will not address climate change. Therefore, Pfizer supports government policies that establish emissions reduction targets guided by the best available science to stabilize global temperature rise below 2oC. As a result of their strong public commitments, Pfizer was one of the first 12 companies recognized by the We Mean Business initiative for having a Science Based Target aimed at stabilizing global temperature rise by 2050.
In 2018, Pfizer helped more than 219,000 patients receive 1.6 million Pfizer prescriptions for free or at a savings
Access to medicines is a cornerstone of Pfizer’s ongoing commitment to patients. For more than 30 years, Pfizer has been helping patients get access to the medicines they need. In the United States, Pfizer RxPathways® connects eligible patients to assistance programs that provide insurance support, co-pay assistance and medicines for free or at a savings. Pfizer partners with health care providers, community health centers and free clinics to support their work in helping patients access medicines they need through patient assistance programs.
In 2018, Pfizer helped more than 219,000 patients receive 1.6 million Pfizer prescriptions for free or at a savings. In the last five years (2014-2018), Pfizer has helped more than 679,000 patients receive over 9 million Pfizer prescriptions for free or at a savings.
More than 3,124 Principal employees volunteered 40,057 hours in 2018
Principal Foundation encourages charitable involvement by employees through a number of volunteer and match giving programs. In 2018 alone, more than 3,124 employees volunteered 40,057 hours alongside board service match, dollars for teams, and dollars for doers opportunities to give back.
Principal Financial Group’s Youth Can Innovation Program helps at-risk youth achieve economic opportunity and financial health
Principal launched the Youth Can Innovation Program in 2018 to help youth achieve economic opportunity and financial health. The initiative is in partnership with the Center for Financial Services Innovation, which is the leading authority on consumer financial health.
Raytheon was the first aerospace and defense company to earn zero waste certification
Raytheon sets ambitious targets for environmental protection and resource conservation. The company is working on its second set of long-term sustainability goals. In early 2016, we established 14 sustainability goals for 2020 that address many different areas, including energy and water conservation, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, solid waste diversion, supplier packaging, renewable energy, materials of concern and supplier commitment to sustainability. Raytheon is making steady progress toward these goals.
For example, Raytheon is pursuing Total Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE) zero waste certification at many of its facilities. This certification program is managed by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), which operates many different environmental certification programs — including the well-known Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification program. TRUE certification is a whole-systems approach to solid waste management that changes how materials are used and how they flow through their life cycle. It makes companies more resource efficient, cuts their carbon footprint to reduce their environmental impact and turns waste into savings. It goes beyond the traditional focus on recycling to embrace reduction, reuse, re-earth/composting, redesign and more. To qualify, sites must divert at least 90 percent of their waste from landfills and incinerators. Sites must score at least 31 out of 81 zero waste points in 15 different categories that include redesign of processes, zero waste purchasing, upstream management and leadership involvement. In 2015, Raytheon became the first aerospace and defense company to earn zero waste certification.
In 2018, four Raytheon facilities obtained zero waste certification: El Segundo, California; Portsmouth, Rhode Island; Cambridge, Massachusetts; and Camden, Arkansas. Three of these sites achieved the highest certification level of Platinum, while the fourth site scored the second highest level, Gold. To date, Raytheon has obtained TRUE zero waste certification at 11 sites.
Rockwell’s largest manufacturing facilities reach the highest level of environmental standards
In 2018, Rockwell Automation certified all of its largest manufacturing facilities to the highest level of environmental standards (ISO 14001:2015 family of environmental management standards).
"Sustainability and social responsibility have always been important attributes of Rockwell Automation. Our sole focus as a business is to help industrial companies and their people be more productive, to make the most of scarce resources. We’re committed to doing things the right way, every day, for the long term, with integrity and respect for each other and the environment." — Blake Moret, Chairman and CEO
SAS programs help veterans transition into rewarding civilian careers
As a company committed to supporting veterans, SAS participates in many programs to attract these dedicated, driven people to the company, and to help them make the transition to civilian life.
SAS works closely with numerous organizations to ensure veteran employment representatives know the skills SAS seeks from candidates. SAS also aligns with Enable America to assist wounded warriors and disabled veterans as they explore potential career paths and participate in training sessions that strengthen their skills. And, SAS strives to bring education and resources to women veterans from across the state.
SAS’ Veteran Employment, Training and Support internship program provides valuable work experience for military personnel pursuing a degree in IT. Partnered with a mentor from SAS’ IT organization who is also a veteran, participants work on business-critical projects to help them acclimate to corporate environments while experiencing practical career coaching.
These efforts – among many others – helped earn SAS the Pro Patria Award, the highest state-level award given to a civilian employer by the US Department of Defense. It recognizes companies for hiring and supporting veterans, reservists and members of the National Guard.
In addition, SAS is working with the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) to offer free SAS programming courses to transitioning veterans and their families. At 14 military installations around the U.S., and online, veterans can learn valuable analytics skills that lead to rewarding career opportunities. The IVMF offers career skills programs that provide career training, entrepreneurship education, professional certifications and job placement support – all at no cost to the service member, veteran or family member. It also conducts national research, policy analysis and program evaluation, and works with communities and nonprofits across the nation to enhance service delivery for veterans and their families.
“Members of the reserves are encouraged to take care of The Triad: Their family, their civilian employer and the Air Force. I am now lucky enough to work with SAS, an employer that supports its own triad: work, life and duty.” - Chris Lester, Sr. Manager of IT, SAS and Security Forces Manager, United States Air Force Reserve
SAS has made strides to reduce its environmental impact, including improved energy efficiency by 28% in office buildings and diverting waste from landfills by 60%
SAS has made strides to minimize its environmental impact, including a 28 percent energy efficiency improvement in its office buildings; diverting waste from landfills by more than 60 percent; and generating more than 3.8 million kilowatt-hours of clean renewable energy annually from solar installations. SAS also installed four bee hives at the company’s world headquarters campus to help bolster the dwindling honey bee population.
“Our growth for more than 40 years proves that caring for our people, our planet and our communities is the right way to do business.” - Jim Goodnight, CEO of SAS
Schnitzer Steel helps Boston police take weapons off the streets
In Everett, MA, Schnitzer has supported the Boston Police Department and other local police departments by recycling metal from weapons taken off the streets. The Boston Police transports the guns to Schnitzer in Everett, which destroys the guns in its recycling facility. Schnitzer’s efforts support law enforcement and the communities in which the company operates by partnering to assure these weapons do not make their way back into circulation.
Schnitzer Steel partners with Tacoma Youth Marine Foundation to provide an outlet for local youth to attain maritime skills training, leadership and environmental awareness
In Tacoma, WA, Schnitzer Steel supports the Tacoma Youth Marine Foundation and the Citizens for the Healthy Bay. By partnering with the Tacoma Youth Marine Foundation, Schnitzer is providing an outlet for the youth of Tacoma and Pierce County to attain maritime skills training, leadership and environmental awareness. The programs are in partnership with the Tacoma Sea Scouts, Tacoma Public Schools and Metro Parks Tacoma.
Additionally, Schnitzer supports a number of other organizations on the Thea Foss Waterway in Tacoma, WA, including providing programmatic instruction and sailboats to the Foss Waterway Seaport Museum for their youth camps and Maritime Fest. Schnitzer’s efforts with the Citizens for a Healthy Bay align with its core value of sustainability. Here, Schnitzer not only supports the bay patrol efforts to safeguard local waters and swiftly tackle pollution, but they also engage in education and conservation efforts by partnering several times a year to participate in the restoration of critical areas through their Student Stewards Conservation Program.
Silver Lake prioritizes substantial charitable, community contributions
In 2018, SIlver Lake contributed to its community in a number of ways. Silver Lake employees donated their time and/or financial support to 185 different charitable organizations. Silver Lake matched hundreds of financial donations and made additional charitable contributions on behalf of its employees. Silver Lake employees were involved in 175 outside organizations, including school boards, charitable organizations, health networks and the arts.
Silver Lake has made substantial charitable contributions in recent years, including $250,000 to Destination Home, $1 million to Texas hurricane relief efforts and $500,ooo to Puerto Rican hurricane relief efforts.
Stanley Black & Decker’s STANLEY-Techstars program supports entrepreneurs focused on additive manufacturing and eco-friendly sustainable packaging solutions
In April 2019, Stanley Black & Decker announced the opening of a 23,000 square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence called “Manufactory 4.0” in Hartford, CT. The center will be an innovation hub for the local region, helping Hartford continue its evolution as a leading market for advanced manufacturing in the United States. For example, the Manufactory 4.0 is the home of the company’s STANLEY+Techstars additive manufacturing accelerator program, which is a program that supports entrepreneurs who are focused on additive manufacturing and eco-friendly sustainable packaging solutions.
Stanley Black & Decker's "Manufactory 4.0" is helping make Hartford, CT, an innovation hub
In April 2019, Stanley Black & Decker announced the opening of a 23,000-square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence, called “Manufactory 4.0,” in downtown Hartford, CT.
The center will be an innovation hub for the local region, helping Hartford continue its evolution as a leading market for advanced manufacturing in the United States. For example, the Manufactory 4.0 is the home of the company’s STANLEY+Techstars additive manufacturing accelerator program, which is bringing some of the world’s most exciting advanced manufacturing startups to the city of Hartford.
The new Manufactory 4.0 center will serve as the heartbeat of Stanley Black & Decker’s Industry 4.0 efforts, helping our manufacturing operations rapidly adopt leading-edge technologies and ensuring our global workforce is prepared for this new world through upskilling and re-skilling efforts.
TC Energy's Build Strong program provides support to first responders
In September 2018, TC Energy launched a campaign to encourage first responders to apply for funding for support through Build Strong, the company’s community investment program. Safety is one of TC Energy’s core values, and the safety focus area within community investment is designed to uphold this value in communities in which the company operates.
TSYS CEO and employees donate $119,000 to the Red Cross after Hurricanes Harvey and Irma
TSYS CEO, Chairman and President Troy Woods challenged team members to donate generously to the American Red Cross to help with Hurricane Harvey and Irma recovery efforts. He personally matched team member donations of up to $20,000. Netspend, a TSYS subsidiary, also announced it would match team member donations up to $25,000.
To assist the Austin (TX) Disaster Relief Network (ADRN), donated funds were placed on Netspend’s Smart One prepaid cards to give directly to those in need. Working computers were donated to assist the ADRN Crisis team as well as victims who needed to apply assistance for online. During this time, customer service teams in affected areas worked to escalate any servicing issues and provide fee waivers as necessary. In addition to corporate-wide efforts, several U.S. team members volunteered to travel to Puerto Rico to assist with physical cleanup and recovery, and team members in McDonough, GA, held a supply drive to collect and provide emergency items to affected areas. These combined efforts resulted in $119,000 in corporate donations.
Turner Construction awards over $1.6 billion in contracts to under-represented business enterprises, the largest amount of minority contracts awarded by any construction manager in the U.S.
Turner Construction Company has a long, positive and consistent history of working with Under-represented Business Enterprises (UBE). UBEs include minority-owned, women-owned, disabled-owned, veteran-owned and LGBTQ-owned businesses.
In 2018, Turner Construction Company awarded over $1.6 billion in contracts to the company’s UBE trade partners demonstrating our commitment to the recruitment of minority participation. It is the largest amount, in absolute dollars, of minority contracts awarded by any construction manager in the United States.
In 1969, in an effort to improve the economic viability of UBE firms we developed the Turner School of Construction Management, the company’s nationally recognized and renowned construction management-training program. This program has helped Turner’s UBE partners build a sustainable and enduring businesses, create networks, establish joint venture partnerships, and form long-term business relationships.
With 1,200 green building projects completed to date, Turner Construction demonstrates its commitment to ensuring a sustainable future
Turner Construction is committed to being a green builder and is recognized as a leader with completion of more than 1,200 green building projects. Along the way, the company has diverted three million tons of construction waste from landfills, improved the company’s work environment and reduced its environmental impact through programs such as the annual Turner Green Zone survey.
Turner believes in utilizing its technical expertise to create a healthy, prosperous and sustainable future for our people, clients and the environment. The company’s 2030 Commitment is to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption of our on-site construction operations by 50 percent by 2030. By taking a deeper look into the aspects of construction that the company can control – the building process itself – Turner has the opportunity to make a direct, measurable impact on the environment.
United Airlines donated $1 million to support government workers during the 2018-2019 government shutdown
During the 2018-2019 federal government shutdown, United donated $1 million to Feeding America’s Shutdown Response Fund. United also contributed $600,000 to distribute food to impacted airport workers at its seven U.S. airport hubs.
United Airlines has transported more than 1,000 people to participate in service trips
As the airline partner of Global Glimpse, a global service education organization, United has transported more than 1,000 students and their teachers to participate in service learning trips to Ecuador, Panama and the Dominican Republic.
“It’s a powerful partnership for both United and Global Glimpse. We are both aligned to connect people and unite the world, literally providing the unifying power of travel.” - ” Sharon Grant, Vice President of Global Community Engagement and Chief Community Engagement Officer
Through their global financial literacy initiative, Visa is helping individuals and communities develop their money management skills
Practical Money Skills is Visa’s global financial literacy program. This program links consumers, educators and financial institutions to the tools they need to better manage their money and improve their quality of life.
Visa's "Back to Business Project" helps support small businesses in communities affected by natural disasters
Visa’s Back To Business project helps connect consumers with small businesses that have been affected by a natural disaster, supporting business owners struggling to recover.
Vistra Energy subsidiary Luminant reclaims and restores over 80,000 acres for use as pastures, forests, wildlife habitat and water resources
Since mining began more than 45 years ago, Vistra subsidiary Luminant has participated in the following reclamation activities: (1) reclaimed more than 80,000 acres for use as pastures, forests, wildlife habitat, and water resources; (2) planted more than 41 million native trees, including over 1.2 million in 2018; (3) enhanced more than 6,800 acres of wetlands, ponds, and stream channels on restored lands, dramatically increasing water resources to the benefit of wildlife and livestock.
“Luminant is proud to be a leader in environmental excellence, and to develop award-winning reclamation practices and environmentally sound solutions that allow for continued use of property. We operate our generation portfolio in an environmentally compliant manner while providing safe, reliable power.” - Cynthia Vodopivec, Vice President of Environmental Health and Safety
Vistra Energy, through subsidiaries and partnerships, provides nearly 300,000 trees to the communities it serves
For more than 15 years, Vistra subsidiary TXU Energy has sponsored the TXU Energy Urban Tree Farm and Education Center, which assists Texas Trees Foundation in their mission to create healthy and sustainable communities. Year after year, the TXU Energy Urban Tree Farm and Education Center continues to provide a place for urban forestry education and sharing the importance of trees in communities. In total, Vistra and its subsidiaries have planted and donated nearly 300,000 trees across various communities.

“We take great pride in creating healthy and sustainable communities by donating trees to cities, counties, schools, and our nonprofit partners. By planting trees now, we’re helping lead the way toward a sustainable future for the next generation.” - Brad Watson, Community Affairs Senior Director
Walgreens provides crucial health care services and supplies in the aftermath of natural disasters
With its nationwide community presence, and the health and daily living products and services it provides, Walgreens serves as a critical responder when disaster strikes, such as when Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria devastated communities across the southern U.S., Puerto Rico and the Caribbean in 2017.
Walgreens has—and embraces—a special responsibility to keep on providing medicine, food, water and essentials when people need them most. When disaster is coming, Walgreens is prepared with people and systems in place to monitor the situation on the ground in real time, and leap into action as needed.
“Regardless of the influx of customers, our team members remained grounded in offering care, knowing everyone had a different situation. Today, I look around and I don’t see any strangers; I see companions, family, survivors and champions.” – Niurca Morales, assistant store manager in Fajardo, P.R.
WESCO provided 900 generators, water, gas cans, batteries, flashlights, water filters, safety glasses and medical supplies to Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria
When Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, WESCO’s Integrated Supply Group (WIS) sourced 900 generators, water, gas cans, batteries, flashlights, water filters, safety glasses and myriad medical supplies, as well. In the weeks that followed, WIS continued to deliver hard-to-find items as requested, including ice machines, insect repellent, table camping stoves and many others.
“Our team did what we do best and stepped up to assist our customer. We’ll continue to do so as long as the help is needed.” – Mike Trubia, Director, WIS
WESCO employees deliver donations to food banks through WESCO's Hunger Busters program
Through its Hunger Busters program, WESCO employees delivered donations by the trunk loads and truckloads to food banks across the U.S. and Canada during two food drive competitions sponsored by the WESCO International Charitable Foundation.
“We acknowledge the challenges out there in our community and want to let others know that giving a helping hand needs to start within every individual.” – Staci Barcial, WESCO Customer Service Associate
Wipro has provided books and backpacks to 120,000+ kids in underserved communities through its partnership with First Book
Wipro provides books and backpacks to high-needs kids in regions and communities surrounding Wipro offices, through the company’s partnership with First Book. Since 2015, Wipro has donated more than 229,500 books globally, including over 181,600 books in the U.S. alone, impacting over 121,400 children. In the past year, Wipro has gifted books and supplies to children in Brooklyn, Dallas, Indianapolis, Nashville, San Francisco, Boca Raton, Minneapolis, Tampa and more.
“Wipro has a longstanding and steadfast commitment to promoting educational equality. Wipro-ites love connecting with kids and teachers, and advancing literacy and equity in their own communities.” – Abid Neemuchwala
Wipro Cares supports communities where the company has a presence
Wipro Cares is a nonprofit trust, managed and driven by Wipro employees, that harnesses the passion of Wipro volunteers to support the needs of their local communities. Broadly, areas of focus include education, health care, the environment, and disaster rehabilitation. However, Wipro’s primary work in North America has focused on education.
In particular, Wipro believes that education is a key enabler of social change and has engaged with education initiatives in the U.S. for more than a decade. Wipro takes a long-term, institutional approach to improving educational outcomes and its initiatives address a diverse set of organizations–including local educational institutions, including universities, nonprofits, public schools, and stakeholders, including civic leaders, teachers, students and parents.
“Wipro employees are passionate about improving the lives of their neighbors. Wipro Cares empowers our 12,000+ passionate employees to effect change in their local communities, especially through our high-impact educational initiatives.” – Abid Neemuchwala
Xylem is helping communities become more resilient in the face of severe weather patterns due to climate change
Like Israel and Singapore, the city of Los Angeles decided to turn to recycled water several years ago to help its water system and citizens address the severe water issues in their region. Xylem had the privilege of playing a role in helping develop the technology for the Terminal Island Water Reclamation Plant. The company installed the first-ever large-scale ultraviolet/chlorine process to treat wastewater to drinking water standards, creating a critical new tool to combat water scarcity challenges.
Xylem helps build flood-resilient communities and sanitary water supply systems
A decade ago, South Bend, Indiana, struggled with a combined sewer overflow (CSO) crisis. The city’s sewers would overflow into the Saint Joseph River with virtually every significant rainfall. The issue resulted in 1 to 2 billion gallons of polluted sewer water being dumped into the river annually. City officials turned to EmNet, now a part of Xylem, to identify and implement an innovative solution to avoid flooding when a storm hits. This reduced the need to build large tunnels and storage tanks, which would have required a massive capital outlay. As a result, overflow volumes have been reduced by more than 70 percent, preventing more than 1 billion gallons a year of polluted water from entering the St. Joseph River, and E.coli concentrations have decreased 50 percent on average. In addition, the city saved $500 million in avoided construction costs. EmNet, which is now a part of Xylem, has gone on to work with more than 20 cities in North America and has helped clients save more than $3.5 billion.

Zebra offers eligible U.S. employees four paid "community service" days each year to encourage volunteerism

Eligible Zebra employees can get approval for paid time off to volunteer at an eligible charitable organization during regular business hours. Each country has different policies pertaining to the total amount allowed based on regional and country requirements. For example, US, UK and Canadian employees are provided four community service days (or 32 business hours) each year. In addition, when an employee volunteers at an eligible charitable organization, Zebra will donate up to $200 to that organization for every eight hours of service (up to a maximum of $800 per employee per year).
Zebra’s overall usage of volunteer paid time off (PTO) grew 47% year-over-year from 2017 to 2018 due to regional expansion and improved participation tracking.