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Nonprofit Management

Meet the 2022 Classy Award Winners: 13 Nonprofits Driving Lasting Impact Around the World

Classy | June 15, 2022

Nonprofits
Classy, an online fundraising platform whose mission is mobilize and empower the world for good, announced the 2022 Classy Award winners. The 13 award winners were selected from a competitive pool of over 1,700 programs that participated in the application process.

Now proudly in its ninth year, the Classy Awards is one of the largest social impact awards in the country. This year's 2022 Classy Award winners include a diverse array of organizations, from internationally recognized nonprofits tackling global issues such as food scarcity and access to healthcare to local programs that are creating equitable opportunities for workforce development and education. In 2021, the winning organizations collectively operated programs in 22 countries, reached more than seven million people, supported 70,000 students, and have dedicated a total of 186 years to their causes and missions.

This year's class of winners includes 10 organizations awarded for their achievement in social innovation, one nonprofit awarded for its resilience in the face of ongoing challenges, a People's Choice winner, presented by LinkedIn for Nonprofits, which was determined by public vote, and a Lifetime Achievement Award, given to a nonprofit professional who has demonstrated excellence over the course of their career in the social sector

These 13 winners include:

  • Social Innovation: The following 10 Classy Award Winners are recognized for providing the most innovative solutions to the world's toughest social and environmental issues.
  1. Sanku - Project Healthy Children
  2. Trees for the Future
  3. Green Bronx Machine
  4. KABOOM!
  5. Yamba Malawi
  6. VoteAmerica
  7. Games for Change
  8. Nuru International
  9. World Telehealth Initiative
  10. Well Aware
  • Adapt and Overcome: NY Sun Works serves 65,000 students in 200 New York City and urban New Jersey schools and provides STEM-based lessons around subject areas like climate change and energy and water management. When the remote learning environment became necessary during the pandemic, NY Sun Works acted quickly to ensure students and teachers alike did not miss a beat. The result was the introduction of Home Hydroponic STEM Kits, which were distributed to 12,500 students in 79 schools with a remote-ready curriculum and online teacher training.
  • People's Choice Award: Presented by LinkedIn for Nonprofits, America Needs You was selected by the public for its Fellows Program that helps first-generation college students complete internships, graduate, and secure employment after graduation. 260 Fellows are anticipated to graduate in 2022—the organization's largest class yet.
  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Kailee Scales has been named the winner of the Lifetime Achievement award, honoring an individual for a lifetime of service to the social sector. Scales began her career as a fundraiser and organizer for Barry Ford, a Congressional candidate in Brooklyn, New York. She has collaborated with the WHO, UN, global CEOs and heads of state including Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden, in developing solutions to the world's most complex problems. In June 2021, Scales was tapped by Adam Braun to serve as the CEO of Pencils of Promise. Pencils of Promise has built more than 580 schools that currently serve over 110,00 students across Ghana, Guatemala, and Laos.

The 2022 Classy Award winners were carefully selected from an appointed Leadership Council of distinguished social sector leaders and executives. The Leadership Council determined the winners by reviewing a proprietary profile built by Classy designed to elevate and standardize programmatic innovation and direct community impact..

Classy Award nominees set the bar for ambitious, innovative, and impactful work in service of the greater good. These groundbreaking nonprofit organizations work tirelessly, often with too little resourcing and recongition, to drive change in their communities. We started the Classy Awards in 2009 as a way to phonor this incredible cohort of organizations that give so much to the world. Congratulations to this incredible group of Classy Award winners, and a deep thank you for the work that you do."

Soraya Alexander, Classy's COO

About the Classy Awards
The Classy Awards is one of the largest award programs of its kind, recognizing excellence in social innovation. The year-long initiative identifies and evaluates organizations addressing hundreds of social problems around the world. The winners are determined by the Classy Awards Leadership Council, an honorary board of leaders and experts whose unique perspective and valuable insight establish this recognition as one of the highest honors in the social sector.

About Classy
Classy, an affiliate of GoFundMe, is a Public Benefit Corporation and giving platform that enables nonprofits to connect supporters with the causes they care about. Classy's platform provides powerful and intuitive fundraising tools to convert and retain donors. Since 2011, Classy has helped nonprofits mobilize and empower the world for good by helping them raise nearly $4 billion. Classy also hosts the Collaborative conference and the Classy Awards to spotlight the innovative work nonprofits are implementing around the globe.

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Nonprofit Technology, Social Movements and Community

Veritiv Expands Commitment to Community with Two National Nonprofit Organizations

PR Newswire | July 18, 2023

Veritiv Corporation, a leading business-to-business distribution solutions company, today announced new corporate social responsibility commitments with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Purpose Built Communities through its community engagement and philanthropy program, Veritiv Connects. Veritiv Connects advances programs that help individuals learn, grow, and thrive with education at the core of the company's community efforts. Building upon the success of the past few years, Veritiv is growing its philanthropic outreach by investing in two national relationships that further align with its community focus areas, including programs that create safe and sustainable neighborhoods, and mentorship opportunities for youth that unlock avenues for success and contribute to a vibrant workforce. "Veritiv is on a journey to create the best culture for our employees, and our culture is not only shaped by who we are but also by what we do," said Sal Abbate, Chief Executive Officer of Veritiv. "Giving back to the communities where we live, work and serve is not simply a value add – it is a core responsibility. I am an advocate for our organization and our team members to use time, talent, and treasure to support non-profit organizations across our footprint." "We are committed to enhancing our involvement in our communities to leave a lasting impact," said Kat Reynolds, Community Relations Manager at Veritiv. "We are excited to collaborate with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Purpose Built Communities because both of these organizations are helping to holistically shape the success of many communities." Boys & Girls Clubs of America's mission is to help young people reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens through youth development programs driven by local need and available resources. This collaboration with Veritiv will establish connections between Clubs and Veritiv employees through volunteer opportunities with local Keystone Club leadership programs in five markets across the United States, including Atlanta, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; Dallas, Texas; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Los Angeles, California. Boys & Girls Clubs of America's National Keystone Club provides unique development opportunities for teens ages 14 to 18 focusing on academic success, career preparation, community service, and teen outreach. "We are honored to be selected as a corporate social responsibility partner through Veritiv Connects," said Chad Hartman, National Vice President of Corporate Partnerships & Engagement, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "As Clubs continue to establish deep community connections through volunteer opportunities with Veritiv team members, kids and teens will gain meaningful experiences that will put them on the path to a great future." Purpose Built Communities partners with local leaders to transform neighborhoods across the United States so neighbors can achieve greater racial equity, improved health outcomes, and increased upward mobility. Veritiv will directly support Purpose Built Communities' national efforts and local work underway in Atlanta, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; and Dallas, Texas. The support will include local engagement and volunteer opportunities for Veritiv employees who live and work in these areas. "Purpose Built Communities knows that prosperity starts with place," said Carol Naughton, Chief Executive Officer of Purpose Built Communities. "We have a deep and long-lasting commitment to strengthening neighborhoods so that neighbors have all the resources they need to flourish. We are excited to collaborate with Veritiv and deepen the impact of our work." About Boys & Girls Club of America For 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Over 5,000 Clubs serve over 3.6 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. National headquarters are located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and Twitter. About Purpose Built Communities Purpose Built Communities partners with local leaders to design, direct, and accelerate neighborhood transformation initiatives across the United States with the shared goal to ensure every resident experiences greater racial equity, improved health outcomes, and increased upward mobility. The Purpose Built Communities model of holistic revitalization includes affordable, mixed-income housing, a cradle-to-college education pathway, community wellness programs and facilities, and a thriving commercial core that creates economic vitality, all within a defined neighborhood, coordinated by a dedicated, nonprofit community quarterback organization. The Purpose Built Communities includes 27, Network Members, community quarterback organizations, in 15 states. For more information, visit purposebuiltcommunities.org. Connect on Facebook @PurposeBuiltCommunities and Twitter @PurposeBuiltCS. About Veritiv Veritiv Corporation (NYSE: VRTV), headquartered in Atlanta and a Fortune 500® company, is a full-service provider of packaging, JanSan and hygiene products, services and solutions. Additionally, Veritiv provides print and publishing products. Serving customers in a wide range of industries both in North America and globally, Veritiv has distribution centers throughout the U.S. and Mexico, and team members around the world helping shape the success of its customers. For more information about Veritiv and its business segments visit www.veritiv.com.

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Social Movements and Community, Philanthropy

Upbound Donates $100,000 to Hire Heroes USA

Businesswire | July 10, 2023

Upbound Group, Inc., a leading provider of technology driven and flexible leasing solutions for consumers through its operating brands including Rent-A-Center® and Acima®, continued our partnership and donated $100,000 to Hire Heroes USA for the second consecutive year. The organization is dedicated to support veterans and military spouses get hired and retain their jobs. Upbound supports charities and organizations that align with its community pillars: disaster relief, family and youth empowerment, hunger relief and veterans affairs. Upbound’s desire to help veterans thrive aligns perfectly with Hire Heroes USA’s vision and principles. Because employment assistance is one of the top services requested by transitioning military members, Hire Heroes USA empowers U.S. military members, veterans and spouses to succeed in the workforce following their time spent in the military. With over 1,400 volunteers at Hire Heroes USA and over 65,000 jobs found for veterans, Hire Heroes USA is the most effective veteran employment nonprofit in the country. Through this partnership, Upbound is grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in veterans’ lives. “We believe in the importance of serving and empowering our customers, whether that’s in-store or through our philanthropic efforts,” says Anthony Blasquez, EVP - Operations. “This partnership with Hire Heroes USA not only helps to achieve this but also demonstrates our commitment to supporting our veterans throughout the years.” On May 31, Upbound held a reception for its employees who are veterans at its Field Support Center in Plano, Texas, and presented a check for $100,000 to Hire Heroes USA’s Lead Corporate Account Manager, Jamie Rimphanli. During the ceremony, Upbound CEO Mitch Fadel spoke to the importance of supporting veterans affairs and organizations such as Hire Heroes USA, before presenting the check to Rimphanli. “Hire Heroes USA is fortunate to have continued support from Upbound,” said Jamie Rimphanli. “Our growth is only possible if our community stakeholders invest in our work. Last year, we achieved 12,764 confirmed hires of veterans and military spouses with an average salary of $65,714. We provided 20,000 job seekers access to our services, and 18,000 were directly helped through one-on-one career coaching. We broke our record, and this happens year after year due to everyone's support. Since 2005, we have achieved 82,000 lifetime hires. We cannot do this alone, and with this generous donation, we look forward to another successful year in 2023.” About Hire Heroes USA Hire Heroes USA empowers US military members, veterans and their spouses to succeed in the civilian workforce. Our organization offers personalized one-on-one coaching, professionally revised resumes, mentoring, workshops, a job board, career fairs and more, to tens of thousands of job-seeking veterans and military spouses annually. Hire Heroes USA prioritizes transparency, earning a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the GuideStar Platinum Seal. Funded exclusively through public donations and private grants, we provide our services at no cost to clients. For more information about our organization, visit hireheroesusa.org. About Upbound Group, Inc Upbound Group, Inc. is an omni-channel platform company committed to elevating financial opportunity for all through innovative, inclusive, and technology-driven financial solutions that address the evolving needs and aspirations of consumers. The Company’s customer-facing operating units include industry-leading brands such as Rent-A-Center® and Acima® that facilitate consumer transactions across a wide range of store-based and digital retail channels, including over 2,400 company branded retail units across the United States, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Upbound Group, Inc. is headquartered in Plano, Texas. For additional information about the Company, please visit our website Upbound.com.

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Nonprofit Technology

Education Nonprofit NFTE Launches Global SDG-focused Innovation Challenges, Winners Receive Cash Prizes

GlobeNewswire | September 14, 2023

Interested in solving some of the biggest challenges humanity faces? Starting today, youth ages 11 to 24 can compete for cash prizes in the annual World Series of Innovation (WSI), presented by Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) and MetLife Foundation. Prizes range from $300-$1,500 with challenges focused on advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Eligible teams and individuals worldwide can sign up at innovation.nfte.com. Each year, WSI unlocks the potential of young visionaries, empowering learners to embrace their inherent creativity and become architects of change. NFTE believes the entrepreneurial mind is well-suited to ideate solutions for sustainable development challenges—from hunger and social justice to climate change. In addition to presenting creative solutions to preserve our future, thousands of WSI competitors will develop the entrepreneurial mindset and practice design-thinking skills. “MetLife Foundation is committed to driving inclusive economic mobility in communities around the world. The World Series of Innovation builds the entrepreneurial mindset needed for young people to succeed in their future – giving them the tools to found their own businesses and expand their future career path,” said Tia Hodges, President and CEO of MetLife Foundation and Head of Corporate Giving and Employee Volunteerism at MetLife. “We are excited to see the innovative solutions young people around the world develop to impact their communities.” Dr. J.D. LaRock, NFTE President and CEO adds, “NFTE’s previous World Series of Innovation competitions have shown us that students are showing us adults the way forward in solving the world’s most pressing challenges – from a business that recycles seaweed for use as construction materials, to a platform that provides accessible financial literacy, to a solution that uses satellite data to draw connections between climate change, mosquito populations, and disease outbreaks.  The young people who will enter this year’s competition will do even more to drive innovation.” Each fall, NFTE announces a new set of WSI challenges as a lead-up to Global Entrepreneurship Week. The robust global competition concludes December 11, and winners will be announced on April 15, 2024, during World Creativity and Innovation Week. This year’s 6 online challenges will advance the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being Challenge:MetLife Foundation SDG 8, Skills for Success Challenge:Citi Foundation SDG 11, Connected Cities Challenge SDG 15, Biodiversity Challenge SDG 13, Subscription Economy Challenge:Zuora  SDG 16, Inclusive AI Challenge:Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) About NFTE  Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) ignites the entrepreneurial mindset with unique learning experiences that empower students to own their futures. A global nonprofit founded in 1987, NFTE provides high-quality entrepreneurship education to middle school, high school and postsecondary students. NFTE brings the power of entrepreneurship to students, regardless of family income, community resources, special needs, gender identity, race, or ethnicity. NFTE has educated more than a million students, delivering our programs in school, out of school, in-person, online, or through hybrid models. Visit nfte.com to learn more. About MetLife Foundation At MetLife Foundation, we are committed to driving inclusive economic mobility for underserved and underrepresented communities around the world. We collaborate with nonprofit organizations and provide grants aligned to three strategic focus areas – economic inclusion, financial health and resilient communities – while engaging MetLife employee volunteers to help drive impact. MetLife Foundation was established in 1976 to continue MetLife’s long tradition of corporate contributions and community involvement. Since 1976, MetLife Foundation has contributed over $900 million to strengthen communities where MetLife has a presence. To learn more about MetLife Foundation, visit www.MetLife.org.

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Financial Management, Philanthropy

GuideOne Foundation Awards $37,000 in Grants to Charitable Organizations

Globenewswire | August 21, 2023

GuideOne Foundation (“Foundation”), the philanthropic arm of GuideOne Insurance, announced today that it distributed community grants totaling $37,000 to 34 charities. The grants, which are one component of the Foundation’s 2023 giving efforts, are awarded by the Foundation’s Employee Advisory Committee to provide financial assistance to charitable organizations that positively develop, enhance and impact the communities where GuideOne employees live and work. The Employee Advisory Committee assists the board and officers of the Foundation by reviewing applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and recommending funding and requests up to $2000. In addition, they represent the interests of GuideOne employees as well as organize employee volunteer opportunities throughout the year to support the Foundation. Employees receive 16 hours of volunteer time off annually to support their favorite charitable organization. “For 25 years, the GuideOne Foundation has played a critical role in fulfilling our mission to make positive change possible,” said GuideOne Insurance President & CEO and GuideOne Foundation President Bernie Hengesbaugh. “It starts with our employees, who are generously giving their time and resources to build connections and offer support to the organizations who are improving our communities.” The community grants are part of the Foundation’s larger philanthropic efforts, which include a week-long employee giving campaign every fall, corporate contributions and various volunteering opportunities throughout the year. A list of charities that received grants is available on GuideOne.com. While grants had previously been dispersed throughout the year, the Foundation changed to an annual schedule this year to be able to maximize funding requests. Applications are now being accepted for 2024 grants. The deadline for submission is April 1, 2024. Details are available at GuideOne.com. About GuideOne Insurance Company For 75 years, GuideOne Insurance Company supports our policyholders’ goals by providing Nimble Solutions for Niche Needs®. Driven by a diverse portfolio of property and liability insurance and risk management solutions, we strive to Help Make Positive Change Possible® by serving as a trusted partner to the people who strengthen and support our communities. GuideOne’s corporate headquarters are located in West Des Moines, Iowa. For more information, visit www.guideone.com. About GuideOne Foundation As the philanthropic arm of GuideOne Insurance Company, GuideOne Foundation has long promoted the company’s commitment to help make positive change possible®. Since 1998, GuideOne Foundation has provided financial assistance in the form of grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that positively develop, enhance and impact the communities where GuideOne team members live and work. In 2022, the GuideOne Foundation awarded more than $150,000 to 40 nonprofits in Iowa and across the United States. Learn more at www.guideone.com/about-us/guideone-foundation.

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Nonprofit Technology, Social Movements and Community

Veritiv Expands Commitment to Community with Two National Nonprofit Organizations

PR Newswire | July 18, 2023

Veritiv Corporation, a leading business-to-business distribution solutions company, today announced new corporate social responsibility commitments with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Purpose Built Communities through its community engagement and philanthropy program, Veritiv Connects. Veritiv Connects advances programs that help individuals learn, grow, and thrive with education at the core of the company's community efforts. Building upon the success of the past few years, Veritiv is growing its philanthropic outreach by investing in two national relationships that further align with its community focus areas, including programs that create safe and sustainable neighborhoods, and mentorship opportunities for youth that unlock avenues for success and contribute to a vibrant workforce. "Veritiv is on a journey to create the best culture for our employees, and our culture is not only shaped by who we are but also by what we do," said Sal Abbate, Chief Executive Officer of Veritiv. "Giving back to the communities where we live, work and serve is not simply a value add – it is a core responsibility. I am an advocate for our organization and our team members to use time, talent, and treasure to support non-profit organizations across our footprint." "We are committed to enhancing our involvement in our communities to leave a lasting impact," said Kat Reynolds, Community Relations Manager at Veritiv. "We are excited to collaborate with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Purpose Built Communities because both of these organizations are helping to holistically shape the success of many communities." Boys & Girls Clubs of America's mission is to help young people reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens through youth development programs driven by local need and available resources. This collaboration with Veritiv will establish connections between Clubs and Veritiv employees through volunteer opportunities with local Keystone Club leadership programs in five markets across the United States, including Atlanta, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; Dallas, Texas; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Los Angeles, California. Boys & Girls Clubs of America's National Keystone Club provides unique development opportunities for teens ages 14 to 18 focusing on academic success, career preparation, community service, and teen outreach. "We are honored to be selected as a corporate social responsibility partner through Veritiv Connects," said Chad Hartman, National Vice President of Corporate Partnerships & Engagement, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "As Clubs continue to establish deep community connections through volunteer opportunities with Veritiv team members, kids and teens will gain meaningful experiences that will put them on the path to a great future." Purpose Built Communities partners with local leaders to transform neighborhoods across the United States so neighbors can achieve greater racial equity, improved health outcomes, and increased upward mobility. Veritiv will directly support Purpose Built Communities' national efforts and local work underway in Atlanta, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; and Dallas, Texas. The support will include local engagement and volunteer opportunities for Veritiv employees who live and work in these areas. "Purpose Built Communities knows that prosperity starts with place," said Carol Naughton, Chief Executive Officer of Purpose Built Communities. "We have a deep and long-lasting commitment to strengthening neighborhoods so that neighbors have all the resources they need to flourish. We are excited to collaborate with Veritiv and deepen the impact of our work." About Boys & Girls Club of America For 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Over 5,000 Clubs serve over 3.6 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. National headquarters are located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and Twitter. About Purpose Built Communities Purpose Built Communities partners with local leaders to design, direct, and accelerate neighborhood transformation initiatives across the United States with the shared goal to ensure every resident experiences greater racial equity, improved health outcomes, and increased upward mobility. The Purpose Built Communities model of holistic revitalization includes affordable, mixed-income housing, a cradle-to-college education pathway, community wellness programs and facilities, and a thriving commercial core that creates economic vitality, all within a defined neighborhood, coordinated by a dedicated, nonprofit community quarterback organization. The Purpose Built Communities includes 27, Network Members, community quarterback organizations, in 15 states. For more information, visit purposebuiltcommunities.org. Connect on Facebook @PurposeBuiltCommunities and Twitter @PurposeBuiltCS. About Veritiv Veritiv Corporation (NYSE: VRTV), headquartered in Atlanta and a Fortune 500® company, is a full-service provider of packaging, JanSan and hygiene products, services and solutions. Additionally, Veritiv provides print and publishing products. Serving customers in a wide range of industries both in North America and globally, Veritiv has distribution centers throughout the U.S. and Mexico, and team members around the world helping shape the success of its customers. For more information about Veritiv and its business segments visit www.veritiv.com.

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Social Movements and Community, Philanthropy

Upbound Donates $100,000 to Hire Heroes USA

Businesswire | July 10, 2023

Upbound Group, Inc., a leading provider of technology driven and flexible leasing solutions for consumers through its operating brands including Rent-A-Center® and Acima®, continued our partnership and donated $100,000 to Hire Heroes USA for the second consecutive year. The organization is dedicated to support veterans and military spouses get hired and retain their jobs. Upbound supports charities and organizations that align with its community pillars: disaster relief, family and youth empowerment, hunger relief and veterans affairs. Upbound’s desire to help veterans thrive aligns perfectly with Hire Heroes USA’s vision and principles. Because employment assistance is one of the top services requested by transitioning military members, Hire Heroes USA empowers U.S. military members, veterans and spouses to succeed in the workforce following their time spent in the military. With over 1,400 volunteers at Hire Heroes USA and over 65,000 jobs found for veterans, Hire Heroes USA is the most effective veteran employment nonprofit in the country. Through this partnership, Upbound is grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in veterans’ lives. “We believe in the importance of serving and empowering our customers, whether that’s in-store or through our philanthropic efforts,” says Anthony Blasquez, EVP - Operations. “This partnership with Hire Heroes USA not only helps to achieve this but also demonstrates our commitment to supporting our veterans throughout the years.” On May 31, Upbound held a reception for its employees who are veterans at its Field Support Center in Plano, Texas, and presented a check for $100,000 to Hire Heroes USA’s Lead Corporate Account Manager, Jamie Rimphanli. During the ceremony, Upbound CEO Mitch Fadel spoke to the importance of supporting veterans affairs and organizations such as Hire Heroes USA, before presenting the check to Rimphanli. “Hire Heroes USA is fortunate to have continued support from Upbound,” said Jamie Rimphanli. “Our growth is only possible if our community stakeholders invest in our work. Last year, we achieved 12,764 confirmed hires of veterans and military spouses with an average salary of $65,714. We provided 20,000 job seekers access to our services, and 18,000 were directly helped through one-on-one career coaching. We broke our record, and this happens year after year due to everyone's support. Since 2005, we have achieved 82,000 lifetime hires. We cannot do this alone, and with this generous donation, we look forward to another successful year in 2023.” About Hire Heroes USA Hire Heroes USA empowers US military members, veterans and their spouses to succeed in the civilian workforce. Our organization offers personalized one-on-one coaching, professionally revised resumes, mentoring, workshops, a job board, career fairs and more, to tens of thousands of job-seeking veterans and military spouses annually. Hire Heroes USA prioritizes transparency, earning a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the GuideStar Platinum Seal. Funded exclusively through public donations and private grants, we provide our services at no cost to clients. For more information about our organization, visit hireheroesusa.org. About Upbound Group, Inc Upbound Group, Inc. is an omni-channel platform company committed to elevating financial opportunity for all through innovative, inclusive, and technology-driven financial solutions that address the evolving needs and aspirations of consumers. The Company’s customer-facing operating units include industry-leading brands such as Rent-A-Center® and Acima® that facilitate consumer transactions across a wide range of store-based and digital retail channels, including over 2,400 company branded retail units across the United States, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Upbound Group, Inc. is headquartered in Plano, Texas. For additional information about the Company, please visit our website Upbound.com.

Read More

Nonprofit Technology

Education Nonprofit NFTE Launches Global SDG-focused Innovation Challenges, Winners Receive Cash Prizes

GlobeNewswire | September 14, 2023

Interested in solving some of the biggest challenges humanity faces? Starting today, youth ages 11 to 24 can compete for cash prizes in the annual World Series of Innovation (WSI), presented by Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) and MetLife Foundation. Prizes range from $300-$1,500 with challenges focused on advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Eligible teams and individuals worldwide can sign up at innovation.nfte.com. Each year, WSI unlocks the potential of young visionaries, empowering learners to embrace their inherent creativity and become architects of change. NFTE believes the entrepreneurial mind is well-suited to ideate solutions for sustainable development challenges—from hunger and social justice to climate change. In addition to presenting creative solutions to preserve our future, thousands of WSI competitors will develop the entrepreneurial mindset and practice design-thinking skills. “MetLife Foundation is committed to driving inclusive economic mobility in communities around the world. The World Series of Innovation builds the entrepreneurial mindset needed for young people to succeed in their future – giving them the tools to found their own businesses and expand their future career path,” said Tia Hodges, President and CEO of MetLife Foundation and Head of Corporate Giving and Employee Volunteerism at MetLife. “We are excited to see the innovative solutions young people around the world develop to impact their communities.” Dr. J.D. LaRock, NFTE President and CEO adds, “NFTE’s previous World Series of Innovation competitions have shown us that students are showing us adults the way forward in solving the world’s most pressing challenges – from a business that recycles seaweed for use as construction materials, to a platform that provides accessible financial literacy, to a solution that uses satellite data to draw connections between climate change, mosquito populations, and disease outbreaks.  The young people who will enter this year’s competition will do even more to drive innovation.” Each fall, NFTE announces a new set of WSI challenges as a lead-up to Global Entrepreneurship Week. The robust global competition concludes December 11, and winners will be announced on April 15, 2024, during World Creativity and Innovation Week. This year’s 6 online challenges will advance the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being Challenge:MetLife Foundation SDG 8, Skills for Success Challenge:Citi Foundation SDG 11, Connected Cities Challenge SDG 15, Biodiversity Challenge SDG 13, Subscription Economy Challenge:Zuora  SDG 16, Inclusive AI Challenge:Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) About NFTE  Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) ignites the entrepreneurial mindset with unique learning experiences that empower students to own their futures. A global nonprofit founded in 1987, NFTE provides high-quality entrepreneurship education to middle school, high school and postsecondary students. NFTE brings the power of entrepreneurship to students, regardless of family income, community resources, special needs, gender identity, race, or ethnicity. NFTE has educated more than a million students, delivering our programs in school, out of school, in-person, online, or through hybrid models. Visit nfte.com to learn more. About MetLife Foundation At MetLife Foundation, we are committed to driving inclusive economic mobility for underserved and underrepresented communities around the world. We collaborate with nonprofit organizations and provide grants aligned to three strategic focus areas – economic inclusion, financial health and resilient communities – while engaging MetLife employee volunteers to help drive impact. MetLife Foundation was established in 1976 to continue MetLife’s long tradition of corporate contributions and community involvement. Since 1976, MetLife Foundation has contributed over $900 million to strengthen communities where MetLife has a presence. To learn more about MetLife Foundation, visit www.MetLife.org.

Read More

Financial Management, Philanthropy

GuideOne Foundation Awards $37,000 in Grants to Charitable Organizations

Globenewswire | August 21, 2023

GuideOne Foundation (“Foundation”), the philanthropic arm of GuideOne Insurance, announced today that it distributed community grants totaling $37,000 to 34 charities. The grants, which are one component of the Foundation’s 2023 giving efforts, are awarded by the Foundation’s Employee Advisory Committee to provide financial assistance to charitable organizations that positively develop, enhance and impact the communities where GuideOne employees live and work. The Employee Advisory Committee assists the board and officers of the Foundation by reviewing applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and recommending funding and requests up to $2000. In addition, they represent the interests of GuideOne employees as well as organize employee volunteer opportunities throughout the year to support the Foundation. Employees receive 16 hours of volunteer time off annually to support their favorite charitable organization. “For 25 years, the GuideOne Foundation has played a critical role in fulfilling our mission to make positive change possible,” said GuideOne Insurance President & CEO and GuideOne Foundation President Bernie Hengesbaugh. “It starts with our employees, who are generously giving their time and resources to build connections and offer support to the organizations who are improving our communities.” The community grants are part of the Foundation’s larger philanthropic efforts, which include a week-long employee giving campaign every fall, corporate contributions and various volunteering opportunities throughout the year. A list of charities that received grants is available on GuideOne.com. While grants had previously been dispersed throughout the year, the Foundation changed to an annual schedule this year to be able to maximize funding requests. Applications are now being accepted for 2024 grants. The deadline for submission is April 1, 2024. Details are available at GuideOne.com. About GuideOne Insurance Company For 75 years, GuideOne Insurance Company supports our policyholders’ goals by providing Nimble Solutions for Niche Needs®. Driven by a diverse portfolio of property and liability insurance and risk management solutions, we strive to Help Make Positive Change Possible® by serving as a trusted partner to the people who strengthen and support our communities. GuideOne’s corporate headquarters are located in West Des Moines, Iowa. For more information, visit www.guideone.com. About GuideOne Foundation As the philanthropic arm of GuideOne Insurance Company, GuideOne Foundation has long promoted the company’s commitment to help make positive change possible®. Since 1998, GuideOne Foundation has provided financial assistance in the form of grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that positively develop, enhance and impact the communities where GuideOne team members live and work. In 2022, the GuideOne Foundation awarded more than $150,000 to 40 nonprofits in Iowa and across the United States. Learn more at www.guideone.com/about-us/guideone-foundation.

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How Salesforce Supports Nonprofits via Philanthropy Grants | Put in the Teamwork

Video

Five Essential Strategies for Higher Ed Fundraising

Whitepaper

Common Challenges Facing the Nonprofit Industry

Video

How Salesforce Supports Nonprofits via Philanthropy Grants | Put in the Teamwork

Video

Five Essential Strategies for Higher Ed Fundraising

Whitepaper

Common Challenges Facing the Nonprofit Industry

Video