Amit Mathradas, General Manager and Head of Small Business NA, PayPal

SOURCE:PayPal

DESCRIPTION:

Tweet me:.@PayPal Business in a Box makes it easy for owners to grow small businesses http://bit.ly/2q8mjsP #SmallBizWeek

KEYWORDS: Innovation & Technology, PayPal, Business in a Box, fintech, small business development, small business week, WooCommerce, Xero, Partnerships

SOURCE:USCCF Corporate Citizenship Center

DESCRIPTION:

Does your business have a great CSR program, or do you know a company that does? Here are some tips for submitting an award-winning nomination for our 18th annual Corporate Citizenship Awards. Deadline to submit is June 23!

Every year the U.S. Chamber Foundation seeks to find the best examples of corporate citizenship from around the world. If you’re a company or nonprofit partner we encourage you to submit a nomination for our 18th annual Corporate Citizenship Awards!

But how can you submit the strongest nomination possible? To help we’ve compiled tips from past winners and judges, divided the tips into two categories: knowing what to nominate and completing the nomination. Check them out below and get started on your nomination!

Knowing What to Nominate

• Review the quality of the project based on its goals, metrics, and results.
• Analyze how well the project is integrated into the company’s mission and how it adds value back into the company.
• Instead of worrying about the size of project, consider the size of its impact.
• Include all types of contribution—financial, intellectual, employee, in-kind, etc.
• Emphasize how your whole company has integrated sustainability and corporate citizenship into its operations (for Best Corporate Steward Awards).

Completing the Nomination

• Be mindful of the word limits—tell your story succinctly.
• Ask fellow colleagues or others who are not as familiar with the project as you are if the nomination makes sense or if there are any gaps.
• Provide a narrative—telling a story which paints a picture can strengthen your nomination.
• Be candid. Let your passion come through. Judges appreciate honesty.
• Ready to complete your nomination? Forms can be found here. There are also more tips within the nomination form. As always, the Corporate Citizenship Center staff is available to answer your questions at ccc@uschamber.com or 202-463-3133. Best of luck, and we look forward to receiving your nomination by June 23!

Tweet me:Recognize an exceptional #CSR program for @USCCFBiz4Good #Citizens2017 awards. Deadline to submit is June 23. goo.gl/XlUWVP

KEYWORDS: Awards, Ratings & Rankings, Events, Media & Communications, Citizens Awards, Corporate Citizenship, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Corporate Citizenship Center, csr

SOURCE:Gildan Activewear

DESCRIPTION:

RIO NANCE, Honduras, May 9, 2017 /3BL Media/ -- Gildan has been recognized with a Distintivo ESR® 2017 award for the second consecutive year, presented by the Mexican Center for Philanthropy (Cemefi) and the Alliance for Corporate Social responsibility (AliaRSE) to companies in Latin America that meet their designated standards in the strategic areas of corporate social responsibility (CSR). 
 
The Distintivo ESR® aims to recognize companies’ efforts to voluntarily and publicly undertake the commitment to implement socially responsible management and continuous improvement as part of their culture and business strategy. The Company received the award for its commitment to supporting communities in Honduras, having donated over $2.5 million to health and education-related projects in 2015/2016. Gildan remains the only recipient in the apparel sector in Honduras.

“We are proud of achieving this distinction once again this year, recognizing our efforts to be a valuable contributor in the countries where we operate,” said Benito Masi, Executive Vice-President, Manufacturing. “Gildan understands that providing safe and healthy working conditions for our employees, supporting the fundamental needs of our communities and innovating to reduce our environmental footprint are key to our continued success and future growth.”
 
Gildan was honoured with this distinction during an award ceremony in Mexico on May 4th, as part of the X Latin American Conference of Socially Responsible Companies.

See the latest in Genuine Stewardship here via Genuine Gildan 

​About Gildan 
Gildan is a leading manufacturer and marketer of quality branded basic family apparel, including T-shirts, fleece, sport shirts, underwear, socks, hosiery, and shapewear. The Company sells its products under a diversified portfolio of company-owned brands, including the Gildan®, Gold Toe®, Anvil®, Comfort Colors®, American Apparel®, Alstyle®, Secret®, Silks®, Kushyfoot®, Secret Silky®, Peds®, MediPeds®, and Therapy Plus™ brands. Sock products are also distributed through the Company’s exclusive U.S. sock license for the Under Armour® brand, and a wide array of products are also marketed through a global license for the Mossy Oak® brand. The Company's products are sold in two primary markets, namely the printwear and retail markets. The Company distributes its products in printwear markets in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. In retail markets, the Company sells its products to a broad spectrum of retailers primarily in the U.S. and Canada and also manufactures for select leading global athletic and lifestyle consumer brands.

Gildan owns and operates vertically-integrated, large-scale manufacturing facilities which are primarily located in Central America, the Caribbean Basin, North America, and Bangladesh. These facilities are strategically located to efficiently service the quick replenishment needs of Gildan'scustomers. With over 48,000 employees worldwide Gildan operates with a strong commitment to industry-leading labour and environmental practices throughout its supply chain in accordance with its comprehensive corporate social responsibility program embedded in the Company'slong-term business strategy. More information about the Company and its corporate citizenship practices and initiatives can be found at www.gildan.com and www.genuinegildan.com, respectively.

Tweet me:.@Genuinegildan receives Distintivo award from @CEMEFInforma & @AliaRSEMexico recognizing their CSR efforts http://bit.ly/2qTTxtf

KEYWORDS: Awards, Ratings & Rankings, Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Distintivo, ESR, Latin America, community, Gildan

SOURCE:Consumers Energy

DESCRIPTION:

A piece of history for Consumers Energy and its hometown came back to life last week as community members in Jackson, Michigan, unveiled a 9-by-28 foot stained glass mural that used to be part of the company’s former headquarters.

Company and community leaders celebrated Friday, May 5, as CP Federal City Square officially opened at the old Consumers Energy headquarters in downtown Jackson. The community gathering space features the stained glass mural, which was commissioned in 1969 for $35,000 to tell the history of energy in Michigan. Consumers Energy has a central role in that history, providing energy to Michigan for 130 years.

Consumers Energy also has a central role in preserving the mural, contributing $25,000 to help complete the mural project.

View the complete article as originally published & photo gallery via mlive.com 

Tweet me:Downtown mural building at site of old @ConsumersEnergy headquarters has been unveiled http://bit.ly/2qTUOQU

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Media & Communications, Consumers Energy

SOURCE:Shared Value Initiative

DESCRIPTION:

Can't make it to New York? Watch the 2017 Shared Value Leadership Summit from your desk!

We're pleased to announce that this week we'll be streaming the entire plenary program of the 2017 Shared Value Leadership Summit: Tune into sharedvalue.org/livestream on Tuesday, May 9, and Wednesday, May 10, for conversations with companies that are using shared value to take on the issues that are making headlines around the world.

View the livestream schedule > 

Tweet me:Watch: Live from #SharedValue Summit - Business Leaders on Social Change ft. @UTC @Walmart @GapInc & more bit.ly/2svlivestream #SVLeaders

KEYWORDS: Events, Media & Communications, Diversity & Inclusion, FSG, Shared Value Initiative, Shared Value Leadership Summit

SOURCE:CSRHub

DESCRIPTION:

As previously seen on Governance & Accountability Institute's sustainabilityupdate.

Meet Bahar Gidwani

by Hank Boerner

Tweet me:.@CSRHub's Bahar Gidwani Speaking at #CSR Certificate Program at #Rutgers http://bit.ly/2qVWubR

KEYWORDS: Education, Events, Media & Communications, CSR Certificate Program, Rutgers, G&A, Rutgers Institute for Ethical Leadership, Governance & Accountability Institute, Bahar Gidwani, Sustainability vs. Profitability

Recognition Embodies Republic’s Commitment to Safety & Customers

SOURCE:Republic Services

DESCRIPTION:

NEW ORLEANS, May 9, 2017 /3BL Media/ – Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is pleased to announce that collection drivers Jesse Peña and Javier Verduzco were recipients of prestigious Driver of the Year awards in the large industrial and large commercial truck categories, respectively. The National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) celebrates the industry’s best drivers each year with the distinguished recognition based upon exemplary safety records and customer service. Both drivers were honored this morning in New Orleans at WasteExpo, North America’s largest annual waste industry tradeshow.

“Safety is the foundation of our business and the cornerstone upon which our initiatives and programs are built,” said Don Slager, president and chief executive officer. “It is why we have established a best-in-class driver training program that enables our more than 15,000 drivers across the country to continually improve. It is fundamental to our commitment to customers and how we make a positive impact each day in the communities we serve. On behalf of Republic and our 33,000 employees, I am proud to congratulate Jesse and Javier, and their families, on this extraordinary recognition.”

Mr. Peña and Mr. Verduzco were selected from approximately 1,000 driver nominations submitted by industry peers from across the country. Since 2009, Republic Services drivers have won 75 percent of the NWRA’s Driver of the Year awards, in the large truck categories. 

Republic’s relentless commitment to safety led to the formation of a comprehensive, industry-leading safety program that relies on continual training to reduce accident frequency. Last year, more than 12,000 employees earned Republic’s Dedicated to Safety Award, and roughly 5,000 employees received Dedicated to Excellence recognition. Based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) data, Republic’s safety performance has been 41 percent better than the industry average over the past eight years.

For 26 years, the NWRA Driver of the Year program has honored drivers who have upheld the field of solid waste management as an honorable occupation, and have conducted themselves and the vehicles they operate in a safe and responsible manner.

2017 Driver of the Year:  Jesse Peña
Mr. Peña has devoted more than 35 years of service to the industry. He began his driving career with Republic in Phoenix, Ariz., in 1994. Over the past 23 years, Jesse has maintained a perfect safety record, with zero accidents or injuries.

Among his customers and coworkers, Jesse is known for prioritizing safety. He has been the recipient of Republic’s Dedicated to Safety Award and Dedicated to Excellence recognition since 2005. Jesse is also considered a leader and role model for fellow drivers, both as a direct supervisor and mentor for new drivers, inspiring team members to approach the day with a positive attitude, commitment to excellence and willingness to always go above and beyond for customers.

His many customers credit Jesse for his great service, attitude and focus on safety. Even in Valley communities that are experiencing rapid population growth, Jesse knows many of his customers personally, interacting with them on a first name basis.

Jesse is a proud husband, father of eight, grandfather of 25, and great grandfather of three. He drives an average of 660 miles per week, in the service of more than 60 municipal customers, collecting over 280 tons of waste.

2017 Driver of the Year:  Javier Verduzco
Mr. Verduzco began his driving career with Republic Services’ Hunting Beach division in 1980. Over the past 37 years, he has earned and maintained an impeccable safety record, with zero accidents or injuries.

Javier is relentless in his commitment to continual safety training. He is a recipient of Republic’s Dedicated to Safety Award and Dedicated to Excellence recognition. He is also known for actively seeking out and participating in Republic’s Focus 6 safety program, as well as OSHA safety exercises.

Within his division, Javier has established a reputation as a selfless team member. He mentors and encourages fellow drivers. He volunteers to go back out and assist other drivers upon completing his route, and he offers help his fellow drivers serve customers on busy weekends.

Javier also places a high priority on his customers and community. His customers credit Javier for his reliable service and great attention to detail, frequently checking to ensure their satisfaction. In his community, Javier is dedicated to service at his church, often leading and participating in retreats and programs.  

Javier is a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He drives an average of 220 miles per week, in the service of more than 600 customers, collecting over 95 tons of waste.

About Republic Services
Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is an industry leader in U.S. recycling and non-hazardous solid waste.  Through its subsidiaries, Republic's collection companies, recycling centers, transfer stations and landfills focus on providing effective solutions to make proper waste disposal effortless for their commercial, industrial, municipal, residential and oilfield customers. We'll handle it from here.™, the brand's promise, lets customers know they can count on Republic to provide a superior experience while fostering a sustainable Blue Planet™ for future generations to enjoy a cleaner, safer and healthier world.

For more information, visit the Republic Services website at RepublicServices.com. "Like" Republic on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RepublicServices and follow on Twitter @RepublicService.

Media                                  
Jennifer Mitchell Eldridge
(480) 718-0119                                                                                   
Media@RepublicServices.com

Tweet me:.@RepublicService drivers earn Driver of the Year awards for commitment to safety http://bit.ly/2qnsB8j @wasterecycling

KEYWORDS: Awards, Ratings & Rankings, Environment, Republic Services, National Waste and Recycling Association, Recycling, safe driving, waste management

By Sophia Mendelsohn

SOURCE:CSRwire

DESCRIPTION:

There’s currently a debate brewing among sustainability and corporate responsibility professionals about the best way to report CSR and environmental information. Is a sustainability report the proper time for storytelling or do readers just want the facts? Truth is, we are often trying to reach multiple (and different audiences) with one report. This year, JetBlue decided to revisit how we report our environmental, social and purpose-driven initiatives. 

Questions always come up as we compile our annual environmental and responsibility report about investors vs. customers and communities. Are investors really looking at or interested in the “feel good” CSR report? Do they care about how we are inspiring humanity as much as they care about cost-cutting initiatives?

Tweet me:.@SophiaLeonoraM shares @JetBlue's philosophy for creating engagement with its #CSR reporting http://bit.ly/2qJXbWC via @CSRwire

KEYWORDS: Research, Reports & Publications, Corporate Social Responsibility, Jetblue, Reporting, CSRwire

SOURCE:Ray C. Anderson Foundation

DESCRIPTION:

May 9, 2017 /3BL Media/ - John Picard, Advisory Board Member for the Ray C. Anderson Foundation and Founding Board Member for The Ray will be speaking today and tomorrow in two panel discussions at Sustainatopia in San Francisco.

Today, Picard will be part of a breakout session at 11:45 a.m. Pacific Time entitled "Designing & Catalyzing Public-Private Impact Partnerships." He will be able to shed light on a new kind of partnership that has emerged with The Ray; The Public-Private-Philanthropic Partnership (P4).

Tomorrow, Picard will be part of another breakout session entitled "Clean Energy Future Under a Trump Presidency." He will highlight the various renewable energy projects that The Ray is engaged in from right-of-way solar on a Georgia highway, to solar road (Wattway) test installations to solar powered electric vehicle charging stations.

If you are at Sustainatopia, be sure to attend these two sessions.

Sustainatopia: http://www.sustainatopia.com

Tweet me:.@ecojohnpicard speaks about @TheRayHighway @Sustainatopia today and tomorrow at 11:45a Pacific http://www.sustainatopia.com/

Contact Info:

Valerie Bennett
Ray C. Anderson Foundation
+1 (770) 317-5858
valerie@raycandersonfoundation.org

Anna Cullen
The Ray
+1 (404) 405-2685
anna@theray.org

KEYWORDS: Events, Media & Communications, Environment, John Picard, Ray C. Anderson Foundation, The Ray, Sustainatopia

SOURCE:Taproot Foundation

DESCRIPTION:

Tuesday, May 23 at 10 AM PT / 12 PM CT / 1 PM ET

REGISTER HERE

Planning and executing a successful crowdfunding campaign can be daunting. You need a compelling promo video, inviting graphics, simple yet informative communications, an engaging email strategy, and stand-out social media. Don’t panic: all this is achievable even without a budget or in-house expertise. This webinar will teach you how to harness the expertise of marketing, graphic design, videography, and communications professionals who want to volunteer to help your cause.

You’ll learn:

• Which parts of a crowdfunding campaign can be done by skilled volunteers
• Four screening tests to identify and create clear project asks for those parts
• The simplest way to find the right skilled volunteer for the job 

In short, you’ll have access to the pro bono expertise you need to build a successful crowdfunding campaign from start to finish.

REGISTER HERE

This free webinar is hosted by Bre DiGiammarino from Indiegogo and Kristin Teti from Taproot Foundation.

Tweet me:WEBINAR How to Launch a Successful #Crowdfunding Campaign w/out a Budget 5/23 http://bit.ly/2qiwuv3 feat @gogobre @indiegogo @taprootfound

KEYWORDS: Philanthropy & Cause Initiatives, Social Impact & Volunteering, Taproot Foundation, indiegogo, Taproot+, Crowdfunding

From JetBlue's Diversity and Inclusion section of the Responsibility Report

SOURCE:JetBlue Airways

DESCRIPTION:

In 2016, Crewmember Resource Groups (CRGs) – JetPride, Women in Flight, Vets in Blue, and Blue Conexión – deepened relationships with co-workers and the community.

In March, Women in Flight held their second annual Fly Like a Girl event. Crewmembers invited the young girls in their lives to learn about careers in aviation.

JetPride marched with partners, including the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus, at a poignant NYC Pride parade just days after the Orlando nightclub shooting in June. Strong emotions were channeled into practical advice for senior leadership team members who were planning JetBlue’s rapid response.

Blue Conexión cosponsored with the Diversity & Inclusion team multiple Cuba awareness events.

Vets in Blue participated for the first time in the Americas Parade, as well as flying their third Honoring Our Heroes Veterans Day flight.

For the first time, all of our CRGs worked with the Talent Management team to host a "Know Your Career" career development workshop for its members. They also partnered in support of local nonprofit organizations, such as Materials for the Arts.

“Our 20,000 diverse crewmembers help us inspire humanity every day in our communities and in the skies and remind us every day that our people are our greatest asset.” — Robin Hayes, President & CEO, JetBlue

To learn more about JetBlue’s long-term responsibility platform and to view the full report, visit responsibilityreport.jetblue.com/2016

Tweet me:JetPride, Women in Flight, Vets in Blue, and Blue Conexión http://bit.ly/2qhBKz8 all @JetBlue crewmember resource groups

KEYWORDS: Diversity & Inclusion, Jetblue, Crewmember Resource Groups, Employee Engagement, JetPride, Women in Flight, Vets in Blue

SOURCE:Qualcomm

DESCRIPTION:

Competitive, collaborative, educational, tough, and thrilling, FIRST is a robotics program that draws hundreds of thousands of students from around the world to battle their bots.

What started with a single event in 1992 has grown so much that, this year, there were two championships: the first wrapped up in Houston, Texas and the second began in St. Louis, Missouri on April 26, running through April 30. In total, nearly 1,400 teams from more than 39 countries competed.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an organization that was founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen to foster interest in science and technology among young people. The nonprofit organization’s goal is to motivate the student community to pursue careers in STEM while providing them with valuable life lessons.

Continue reading OnQ

Tweet me:.@Qualcomm and @FIRSTweets encourage students of all ages to embrace #STEM http://bit.ly/2pyd4AS #robotics

KEYWORDS: Education, STEM, Qualcomm, First, Corporate Social Responsibility

SOURCE:Scotiabank

SUMMARY:

• The participation of women is increasing in different economic sectors of Mexico, including the financial sector
   
• Scotiabank recognizes the participation of women as a competitive advantage in meeting the Bank's objectives and as a fundamental pillar of the company's inclusion values
   
• 41.2% of Mexico’s workforce are women, according to information from INEGI
  ​
• Scotiabank Mexico were recently ranked as the 3rd most sought after employer for women and 1st for the percentage of women in leadership positions by Expansión, Mexico’s leading business magazine

DESCRIPTION:

May 10, 2017 /3BL Media/  - Year after year, women's leadership and participation in the productive life of Mexico has been increasing, not only in sectors that have historically been dominated by them, but in areas where, until decades ago, their participation was considerably lower.

In statistics published in 2016^[1] by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), it emphasizes that gender equality has been a priority theme for more than 40 years. That is why actions are being taken globally to eliminate historical inequality and to narrow the differences between women and men, thus laying the foundations for an effective equality among all. In this context, the commitment of the Private Initiative to this objective becomes more relevant than ever.

The Economic Census conducted in 2014 revealed that in the private sector of our country, there are about 22 million workers, of which 41.2 percent were women, against 58.8 percent men. He points out that companies offering financial services concentrate the highest percentage with 49.5, followed by trade with 47.7.

Scotiabank in Mexico proudly counts on a great female talent involved in decision making, some examples to mention are: Fuencis Gómez, Deputy General Manager of Banca Digital, Cristina Cacho, Vice President of Consumer Credit and Customer Experience; Beatriz Ruiz, Territorial Director of Bajío; Ana Cecilia Maza, Vice President of Marketing; And Rhina Torres, Director of Communication and Social Responsibility, who, thanks to their leadership, skills, personality and experience, have become a fundamental part of the institution's operations and ambassadors of Scotiabank's culture of inclusion and diversity in its different fields professionals.

"In order to advance the advancement of women, we have worked with seven initiatives, which seek to provide and take advantage of existing processes, programs and platforms to advance the careers of committed and talented women, improving women's representation within the group, Potential and the value they provide, "said Enrique Zorrilla, Managing Director of Scotiabank México.

He points out that since 2005, Scotiabank has developed a model of gender equity management in which men and women participate with initiatives in favor of diversity and inclusion. In addition, an internal campaign was developed to seek progress, not only for women, but for all employees.

In addition, the Canadian-based bank has undertaken pro-equity actions, such as: women empowerment courses, establishment of an internal professional and personal development network, and an internal diversity campaign.

Due to its actions in this area, Scotiabank has been recognized and awarded by different institutions, including:

• The Mexican Institute of Standardization and Certification granted Scotiabank the official recognition of the Mexican Standard for Labor Equality between Women and Men. This certification is given to organizations where policies show respect for equality, non-discrimination and equal opportunities between both genders.

• With consistent positioning in the Great Place to Work® ranking - Gender Equity

• The Labor Secretariat recognizes Scotiabank as a Family Responsible Company. This badge supports our work practices in gender equity, prevention, combating labor violence, sexual harassment and policies that favor our collaborators so that they can best attend to their family responsibilities.

The model directly benefits all employees through an improvement in labor practices, productivity and the working environment, so that we become a better company day by day.

With actions like these, Scotiabank adds to its commitment to gender equity, and promotes the development of all its collaborators without distinction of sex, age, religion or race.

Tweet me:Scotiabank Mexico ranked 1st for % of women in leadership positions by business magazine Expansión @ScotiabankViews http://bit.ly/2r2bbe7

KEYWORDS: Diversity & Inclusion, Sustainable Finance & Socially Responsible Investment, Scotiabank, Mexico, Women in Finance, csr, Women's Leadership

SOURCE:Ecolab

DESCRIPTION:

With increasing public health concerns associated with Legionnaires’ disease and waterborne healthcare associated infections (WHAIs), it’s not surprising that more than 200 healthcare professionals and building owners and operators attended Nalco Water’s April 20 conference in Baltimore on strategies to reduce the risk of waterborne pathogens.

One of Nalco Water’s leading water safety experts, Eric Myers, opened the conference with a discussion on waterborne pathogens and how, if left unchecked, they can flourish in building water systems putting building tenants and, in the case of healthcare facilities, patients and staff at risk of serious infection. One of these waterborne pathogens – Legionella – can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a serious lung infection that’s deadly for 10 percent of those who contract it. 

Along with the health risks, building owners and facility managers can face an immediate crisis and longer term business and legal risk associated with Legionella outbreaks and the occurrence of WHAIs. 

Susan Smith, a partner in the law firm of Goldberg Segalla, shared her expertise with conference attendees. “The legal landscape is shifting. Recent high profile outbreaks, evolving standards of practice and new regulations are drawing attention to water safety and water management strategies. Public health officials are looking to building owners and operators to take steps to minimize the risk of an outbreak or infection associated with their facilities,” said Smith.

Building owners and operators also need to be aware of the potential for negative impacts on their brands and reputation. According to Bob McNaney, senior vice president of the public relations firm Padilla, a Legionella outbreak presents a crisis situation for which building owners must be prepared.  “Just by sitting in the room today and thinking about crisis preparedness, each of the organizations here took the first step in protecting their respective brands. You must walk toward the crisis – take responsibility from the start. Own it and fix the problem as best you can,” said McNaney.

Hospital infection prevention professionals view their building water as a serious, but controllable source of potential HAIs, and the conference attracted many participants from local and regional hospitals and healthcare systems.

Ecolab’s Dr. John Hanlin, vice president of Public Health, is familiar with the need to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and building managers of the health risks associated with waterborne pathogens in building water systems and the steps that can be taken to mitigate the risks. 

“Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia,” said Hanlin.  “The infection can occur when susceptible people inhale Legionella-contaminated water mists or aerosols. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are at least 20 outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease reported each year in the U.S. with approximately 5,000 people diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease.  Fatality rates of 10 percent or higher have been reported, and CDC investigations show that almost all Legionella outbreaks were caused by problems preventable through more effective water management.” 

Conference participants learned how to develop and implement a water safety management plan.  Topics included how to conduct a water safety risk assessment, the role of secondary disinfection and the value that cooling tower cleaning and disinfection plays in reducing risk.

Nalco Water, an Ecolab company, has been the global leader in water safety for more than 25 years and has partnered with building owners, facility managers, environmental risk managers and infection prevention specialists to develop more than 10,000 water safety management programs, each customized for specific operations.

Contact our water safety experts at WaterSafetyinquiry@ecolab.com for more information.

KEYWORDS: Health & Healthcare, Environment, Ecolab, Nalco Water

SOURCE:Sea Change Radio

DESCRIPTION:

Was all the work to try to keep the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines from being built done in vain now that Donald Trump occupies the White House? Not if you ask this week’s guest on Sea Change Radio, Kandi Mossett, a leading organizer for the Indigenous Environmental Network. Mossett takes us behind the scenes of Native Americans’ fight to preserve their sacred lands. We discuss the connection between protecting the environment and advocating for Native American rights, talk about how struggles from Standing Rock to Bears Ears have stimulated activism and raised awareness, and recognize the value that this movement has, even in the face of setbacks (like the ascension of an obscenely pro-corporate presidential administration).

Tweet me:This wk's @SeaChangeRadio - "Champions For Sacred Lands" http://www.cchange.net/2017/05/09/sacred/ w/@IENearth @NoDAPL ‏

KEYWORDS: Environment, sea change radio, Keystone XL Pipeline, Dakota Access pipeline, Kandi Mossett

In an open letter published Wednesday in The Wall Street Journal, Dave MacLennan was one of 30 major company CEOs urging President Donald Trump to keep the U.S. in the Paris Agreement

SOURCE:Cargill

DESCRIPTION:

Tweet me:.@Cargill Signs #CEOLetter to President Trump: Stay in #ParisClimateAgreement http://bit.ly/2qsg3we #ClimateAction

KEYWORDS: Sustainable Development Goals, Energy, President Trump, Cargill, CEO LETTER, Paris Agreement

Framework guides nonprofits as they build technology capacity using pro bono tech experts

SOURCE:Taproot Foundation

DESCRIPTION:

OAKLAND, Calif., May 10, 2017 /3BL Media/ - The median technology budget of nonprofits is less than 2% of each organization’s total operating budget, and most nonprofits are not confident that they have enough skilled staff or training to effectively use technology, according to NTEN’s 9th Annual Nonprofit Technology Staffing & Investments Report. This is in stark comparison with the ubiquitous adoption and use of technology in the for-profit sector. With the goal of bridging this technology divide, the Taproot Foundation, in collaboration with VMware Foundation, released a new nonprofit-focused tool entitled Transforming Technology Pro Bono at Taproot’s annual U.S. Pro Bono Summit on April 26.

“We know just how important a need technology is for nonprofits and that many nonprofits don’t have the resources or the know-how to access that expertise,” says Liz Hamburg, Taproot Foundation President & CEO. “We hope this tool can help social change organizations tackle big challenges with the help of pro bono tech experts.”

“VMware’s culture of service empowers our people to be active in the global community. Through this resource, we hope to inspire VMware people to contribute their Service Learning time and talents to help bridge the digital divide,” says Jessamine Chin, Director of the VMware Foundation. “We’re excited to partner with Taproot to advance the conversation around technology pro bono.”

Transforming Technology Pro Bono was designed to address technology challenges by introducing a practical approach to break down some of the common barriers to successful technology pro bono projects and by presenting a framework and assessment, drawn from best practices in the technology industry, that can help nonprofits build capacity with pro bono technology talent.

Transforming Technology Pro Bono: A Practical Approach to Engaging Technology Talent for Nonprofit Capacity Building content includes:

• The Solution Development Framework, inspired by the Systems Development Life Cycle approach commonly used in the technology sector to solve business problems.
   
• The Discovery Assessment, designed to help nonprofits uncover opportunities before diving into a specific project.
   
• Clear guidance for nonprofits and technology volunteers on using these approaches, including questions to ask, recommendations on volunteer skillsets to seek out, and additional resources available. 

Download Transforming Technology Pro Bono here.

Transforming Technology Pro Bono is offered as part of Taproot’s initiative to support nonprofits in solving critical social issues by more strategically using technology pro bono. Learn more about Taproot’s initiatives here.
 

About the Taproot Foundation
Taproot Foundation, a national nonprofit, connects nonprofits and social change organizations with skilled volunteers who provide their expertise pro bono. Taproot is creating a world where organizations dedicated to social change have full access—through pro bono service—to the marketing, strategy, HR, and IT resources they need to be most effective. Since 2001, Taproot’s skilled volunteers have served 4,000 social change organizations providing 1.4 million hours of work worth over $150 million in value. Taproot is located in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Los Angeles and is leading a network of global pro bono providers in over 23 countries around the world. www.taprootfoundation.org

About the VMware Foundation
The VMware Foundation exists to provide a platform to amplify the contributions of VMware people to their causes of choice, contributing to VMware's collective impact in the world. Knowing that we learn best by doing, at the heart of VMware’s approach to giving is Service Learning. By integrating reflection with meaningful community service, Service Learning helps enrich the volunteer experience, encourages a learning mindset, and builds a culture of service that extends beyond our “day-jobs” to lifelong civic engagement. VMware was recognized by Great Place to Work and Fortune as one of 2017 Best Workplaces for Giving Back, and in 2016, 85% of VMware people gave back to the global community. 

Tweet me:.@taprootfound & @VMware release new framework for #nonprofits: Transforming #Tech #ProBono http://bit.ly/2qs0uF1 @VMWFoundation

Contact Info:

Crystal Hendricks-Kretzer
Taproot Foundation
pr@taprootfoundation.org
@taprootfound

KEYWORDS: Social Impact & Volunteering, Innovation & Technology, Taproot Foundation

SOURCE:Alliance Data

DESCRIPTION:

For the 2nd year in a row, Alliance Data has been named one of America's Best Large Employers by Forbes Magazine. What's the main ingredient in our recipe for success? Our associates. We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits and professional development opportunities that challenge and motivate our associates. Another essential element of our value proposition - our culture. This is where we distinguish ourselves. We make it a priority to listen and act on what’s important to associates, and to give them room to have fun, stay healthy, be themselves, and balance work and life commitments. And in return, they make us an awesome place to work. 

Tweet me:For the 2nd year in a row, @AllianceData has been named one of #AmericasBestEmployers by @Forbes! http://bit.ly/2r2GTrN

KEYWORDS: Awards, Ratings & Rankings, Best Companies to Work For, Alliance Data, workplace awards, Culture, training and development, Forbes, America's Best Large Employers

SOURCE:Ingersoll Rand

DESCRIPTION:

DAVIDSON, N.C., May 10, 2017 /3BL Media/ – Ingersoll Rand (NYSE:IR), a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments, donated $15,000 to the Arbor Day Foundation and $15,000 to GlobalGiving in honor of Earth Day.

“Ingersoll Rand is dedicated to instilling a sustainable, responsible culture that supports programs combating climate change around the world,” said Gretchen Digby, director of global sustainability programs at Ingersoll Rand. “Trees and plants have many benefits to the environment and are vital to reducing damaging effects of climate change. We are thrilled to help organizations reach their goals and improve the quality of life in communities worldwide.”

The Arbor Day Foundation will plant 15,000 trees in an area of critical need along the Mississippi River. The trees will help provide a buffer for the increasing agricultural fertilizer and pesticide runoff which is damaging our waterways and creating a dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico, as well as capture roughly 10,000 tons of carbon dioxide over the next 15 years.

“We are excited about this new partnership with Ingersoll Rand and are honored to be working with an organization that is known for its commitment to fight climate change,” said Jared Carlson, director of innovation and business development at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Their focus on internal greenhouse gas reduction goals, as well as creating products that will lower the carbon footprint of consumers is inspiring.”

Ingersoll Rand also made a $15,000 donation, spread across three nonprofits outside of the United States, through the nonprofit GlobalGiving, a global crowdfunding platform for grassroots charitable projects. These donations contributed to tree-planting projects taking place in India, Mexico and Indonesia.

In Mexico, the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve aims to restore and conserve the forest’s ecosystem and improve the quality of life for its human population. Indonesia is working to restore a vital orangutan habitat that has been destroyed by illegal oil palm plantations within the Gunung Leuser National Park. In India, the Community Health, Housing and Social Education organization will be one step closer to its goal of planting 100,000 plants.

About Ingersoll Rand
Ingersoll Rand (NYSE:IR) advances the quality of life by creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments. Our people and our family of brands—including Club Car^®, Ingersoll Rand^®, Thermo King^® and Trane^®—work together to enhance the quality and comfort of air in homes and buildings; transport and protect food and perishables; and increase industrial productivity and efficiency. We are a $13 billion global business committed to a world of sustainable progress and enduring results. For more information, visit www.ingersollrand.com.

About the Arbor Day Foundation:
Since 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation has worked with more than 1 million members and supporters to plant and distribute more than 250 million trees around the world to improve water and air quality, slow climate change and reduce poverty. The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit conservation and education organization. A million members, donors, and partners support our programs to make our world greener and healthier.

About GlobalGiving:
GlobalGiving is the first and largest global crowdfunding community that connects nonprofits, donors and companies in nearly every country around the world. They make it possible for nonprofits from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe – and hundreds of places in between – to access the tools, training, and support they need to be more effective and make our world a better place.

Tweet me:Ingersoll Rand Makes Substantial Donation to Arbor Day Foundation and GlobalGiving http://bit.ly/2qqXaK2

KEYWORDS: Environment, Climate Action, Ingersoll Rand, Arbor Day Foundation, globalgiving

Strategic Alliance with Hydrus Technology Targets Sustainability Services for Customers

SOURCE:Caterpillar

DESCRIPTION:

Tweet me:.@CaterpillarInc + @Hydrustech Target #Sustainability Services for Customers http://bit.ly/2r2Dmtx #Wastewater #SDGs #CleanWater

Contact Info:

Janice Walters
Caterpillar Inc.
+1 (309) 636-5853
walters_janice@cat.com

KEYWORDS: Sustainable Development Goals, Environment, Caterpillar, Hydrus Technology, water, wastewater treatment