California Labor Code Section 226 requires an employer to furnish its employees an accurate itemized wage statement in writing showing (1) gross wages earned, (2) total hours worked, (3) the number of piece-rate units earned and any applicable piece-rate, (4) all deductions, (5) net wages earned, (6) the inclusive dates of the period for which the employee is paid, (7) the name of the employee and only the last four digits of the employee’s social security number or an employee identification number other than a social security number, (8) the name and address of the legal entity that is the employer and, (9) all applicable hourly rates in effect during the pay period and the corresponding number of hours worked at each hourly rate by the employee. Dynamic Nursing Services allegedly failed to provide its employees with accurate itemized wage statements that complied with all the requirements of California Labor Code Section 226.
If you would like to know more about the Dynamic Nursing Services lawsuit, please contact Attorney Jackland Hom today by calling (619) 255-9047.
Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC are labor and employment law firms with offices located in California that dedicate their practices to fighting for employees who have been wronged by their employers due to unfair employment practices. Contact one of their attorneys today if you need help with workplace issues regarding wage and hour, wrongful termination, retaliation, discrimination, and harassment.
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“Our Backpack Drive is one of my favorite volunteer efforts of the year, and it remains a cornerstone of AMC’s community outreach initiatives,” said AMC President Danielle McCarthy. “For many families, purchasing school supplies can be a financial burden. Initiatives like this relieve this pressure, allowing parents to allocate their limited resources to other essential needs. By providing these backpacks, AMC aims to ensure that every child possible within our communities starts the school year equipped with the necessary tools to succeed academically.”
This marks the 11th annual year of the drive, which started as a program for one specific property before expanding throughout the Irvine-based property management company’s portfolio in 2021. The backpacks and school supplies are donated by industry partners and bolstered by donations from team members into AMC’s Charitable Giving Fund, which is used to help subsidize multiple charity efforts throughout the year.
All the backpacks were stuffed with school supplies at the company’s warehouse by volunteer team members. The backpacks will be distributed this week to individual community directors for delivery to their intended recipients at their apartment homes. The process begins each year when community directors identify and nominate individuals from their communities.
“It’s a beautiful thing to see a child’s eyes light up when they receive the backpack their community director has hand-picked out for them,” said Katie Tanner, AMC’s People Potential Ambassador. “The parents are always so appreciative, and we love knowing that we made going back to school an easier process for families in our communities. It’s always a joy to watch their genuine happiness unfold.”
AMC and R³ give back to their communities in myriad ways throughout the year, including efforts to provide full Thanksgiving dinners and holiday gifts for families in need and providing assistance to team members through the Charitable Giving Fund. For example, AMC team members also participated in this month’s CHOC Walk at Disneyland, raising money for children’s health and well-being.
“The annual school drive is one way our team members show their deep-seated dedication to the families in their communities,” said McCarthy. “Creating a family atmosphere in our company and at our properties remains one of our highest priorities.”
About AMC and R³ AMC is a subsidiary of Advanced Real Estate Services, Inc., a real estate investment company founded in 1982 by Richard Julian and Frank Holloway. AMC maintains and operates nearly 12,000 multifamily units in Southern California. R³ is a leader and innovator in the construction industry, specializing in high-volume renovations for multifamily clients in Southern California. Find out more at amcliving.com or r3construction.com.
Fortetropin® is MYOS’s proprietary all-natural nutrition product derived from fertilized egg yolk. Clinically shown to maintain healthy muscle mass and reduce and prevent muscle loss due to aging, injury, or surgery, Fortetropin® enhances protein synthesis, improves mobility, and accelerates recovery without any additives or artificial ingredients.
Green Lipped Mussel (300mg):
A natural source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Green Lipped Mussel reduces inflammation and stiffness while promoting joint health with Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) like chondroitin sulfate.
Egg Shell Membrane (188mg):
Eggshell membrane is rich in collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid, all of which are known to support joint health. These components can help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with arthritis and other joint conditions, improving mobility and quality of life for dogs.
Why We Created MYOS Muscle Formula PLUS:
Joseph Mannello, CEO of MYOS, states, “We created MYOS Muscle Formula PLUS to offer a comprehensive, all-natural supplement with simple yet effective ingredients. Our goal was to combine three powerful natural components known for their proven benefits. All our products are grounded in science and nature, providing a simple yet comprehensive solution for muscle and joint health that you can trust. We are confident that MYOS Muscle Formula PLUS will make a significant difference in the well-being of canine patients. They will also love the taste!”
According to Rebecca McIntosh, DVM, cVMA, CFFP states, “We have been very pleased with the results we have seen from our patients that are using MYOS! As a veterinarian, it is important that I can offer products like MYOS that contain all-natural ingredients and are backed by clinical trials and scientific research. We are excited to continue to recommend MYOS in our practice and we are thrilled to try the new MYOS Canine Muscle Formula Plus product! MYOS continues to offer a robust line of products that can benefit many of our patients.
The fitness franchise has launched a nationwide rollout of Red Light Therapy across its network of nearly 200 fitness locations, aiming to enhance member health through innovative technology that promotes skin health and energy enhancement.
ATLANTA, July 30, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Workout Anytime, the 24/7 fitness franchise with nearly 200 locations nationwide, is proud to announce the nationwide rollout of Red Light Therapy (RLT) across its network. Through this initiative, Workout Anywhere aims to enhance the health and wellness of its members through an innovative technology that promotes skin health and energy enhancement, as well as overall well-being. According to Greg Maurer, vice president of fitness and education for Workout Anytime, RLT is a safe and non-invasive procedure in which the skin is penetrated by red and infrared light, which interacts with the mitochondria within the cells to increase oxygen levels and dramatically improve energy production. “So what are the specific benefits we know for skin health in red light?” Maurer said. “We definitely know it can help with wrinkles. For example, unlike ultraviolet light, it doesn’t damage the skin, it helps the skin. It can help with wound healing, it can help with acne.” The rollout includes two types of RLT units designed to cater to different member needs. “We have stand-up units for targeted treatments in private rooms and lay-down units that deliver deeper penetration for more extensive benefits,” Maurer said. These sessions typically last between 12 to 20 minutes, and should be scheduled at least three times a week for optimal results. The introduction of RLT aligns with Workout Anytime’s commitment to offering comprehensive wellness amenities. “We’re passionate about creating a life-changing journey for everybody coming into our clubs,” said Maurer. “Red light therapy will be a standard feature in our new clubs, offering members access to cutting-edge technology aimed at enhancing their overall fitness experience.” The rollout will encompass existing clubs and upcoming locations, ensuring that members nationwide can access this innovative wellness solution. “Consumers can visit the Workout Anytime website to check if their local club offers this amenity,” Maurer said. In addition to RLT, Workout Anytime is exploring other wellness innovations to complement its fitness offerings. “We’re also looking into integrating forms of whole-body cold therapy, providing members with diverse options to support their fitness journey,” Maurer said. ABOUT WORKOUT ANYTIME: Atlanta-based Workout Anytime is a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week fitness concept with nearly 200 units across the U.S. Founded by fitness veterans John Quattrocchi and Steve Strickland, the company was formed to provide members with first-class fitness facilities at the lowest cost possible while delivering a profitable and affordable business model to franchisees. Built on the founders’ motto of “think big, keep it simple and do it with integrity,” Workout Anytime is preparing for significant expansion into new territories across the U.S. and Central America by providing opportunities to business-minded entrepreneurs. Franchise opportunities are available, and more information can be found on http://workoutanytimefranchise.com/.
The personal care spa concept was celebrated among top-performing industry concepts, recognized for its strength, stability, and growth.
LAKEWOOD, Colo., July 30, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Woodhouse Spas, the franchise that redefines self-care by offering resort-style luxury in a convenient, local experience, ranked No. 1 in the Massage & Spa Services category on the 2024 Franchise 500 list, solidifying its place as one of the 2024 Best of the Best Franchises. Each year, Entrepreneur Magazine evaluates franchises based on their costs and fees, size and growth, support, and brand strength. This year’s rankings were particularly competitive, making Woodhouse Spas’ placement even more impressive.
Woodhouse Spas ranked No. 236 overall on the 2024 Franchise 500 list, marking a significant climb of 21 spots from 2023. This achievement underscores Woodhouse Spas’ continued excellence and growth, having been consecutively ranked on this prestigious list since 2014.
“Our inclusion in the Entrepreneur 500 list is a testament to the dedication and passion of our entire franchise network. This recognition further solidifies Woodhouse Spas as a leader in the luxury spa industry,” said Scott Thompson, Chief Development Officer of Radiance Holdings.
Woodhouse Spas stands out from other spa franchises with its high-end luxury spa experience. Unlike typical membership-based franchises, Woodhouse Spas offers personalized care that addresses individual guest needs, providing an immersive and rejuvenating experience. The franchise model also offers diverse revenue streams, including specialized services, retail products, gift cards and non-touch therapies like infrared saunas and salt rooms.
“Woodhouse is uniquely positioned in the industry,” said Ariel Clay, Chief Operating Officer of Woodhouse Spas. “We offer a luxury spa experience that is both accessible and convenient. Our franchisees have shown incredible dedication to upholding the high standards of the Woodhouse brand to ensure that each customers’ experience is luxurious, relaxing and everything they’ve come to expect from us.”
The brand’s first franchised location in Kingston, Pennsylvania opened in 2003. Since then, Woodhouse has grown to 87 locations nationwide. With plans to open up to 15-25 new locations annually in prime markets across the country, Woodhouse Spas is seeking qualified franchisees in prime markets like Chicago, Southern California, Arizona and South Florida.
ABOUT WOODHOUSE SPAS Woodhouse Spas is a leading luxury spa franchise that offers resort-style spa experiences in local communities. Founded in 2001 in Victoria, Texas, Woodhouse Spas has grown to 87 locations across the United States. The brand provides a wide range of services, including massages, facials, body treatments, and nail services, all designed to offer personalized care and enhance wellness. Woodhouse franchisees benefit from comprehensive support, including training, site selection, construction management, marketing, and operational advice. For more information about Woodhouse Spas, visit https://www.ownawoodhouse.com/.
According to Kaiser, Health-E Commerce currently collaborates with the following digital health providers – all of which are easily accessible for consumers on FSA Store or HSA Store – and will continue to expand its telehealth category to meet the evolving needs of account holders:
Apostrophe for treatment of acne and other skin conditions.
BetterHelp for virtual mental health services.
Bilt Labs for customized shoe insoles to treat foot conditions.
Byte for invisible dental aligners.
Lofta for sleep apnea.
Nectar for personalized treatment of allergies.
Oar Health for alcohol use care and medication.
Optical for prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, and vision screening.
Proov for fertility care and healthy pregnancy.
ShedRx for prescription weight loss.
“As a provider of doctor-directed aligner solutions through our innovative teledentistry platform, Byte is committed to making high-quality oral care accessible and affordable for everyone,” said Nick Sarnoff, Head of Byte. “We’re proud to be one of the first telehealth companies featured by Health-E Commerce, allowing us to make our invisible aligners accessible to FSA and HSA users everywhere, helping them achieve a healthy and confident smile they are proud of.”
Health-E Commerce will continue to expand its telehealth offerings with new services in the coming months, focusing on feedback and shopping trends among FSA and HSA users. To learn more about FSA- and HSA-eligible telehealth from Health-E Commerce, visit FSA Store or HSA Store.
About Health-E Commerce Health-E Commerce is the parent brand to FSA Store and HSA Store, online stores that serve the 70+ million consumers enrolled in pre-tax health and wellness accounts. The company also created Caring Mill™, a popular private-label line of health products through which a portion of every purchase is donated to the Children’s Health Fund. Since 2010, the Health-E Commerce brands have led the direct-to-consumer e-commerce market for exclusively pre-tax health and wellness benefits. Health-E Commerce plays an essential role in expanding product eligibility for important new categories within the list of eligible medical expenses.
Without early detection and treatment, uncorrected vision disorders can impair healthy development, interfere with learning, and even lead to permanent vision loss. However, vision screening and regular eye care can help detect and treat potentially irreversible vision impairment. Visual functioning is a strong predictor of academic performance in school-age children.
In recognition of Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, Prevent Blindness offers free resources including fact sheets, social media graphics, toolkits, videos and webpages on a variety of topics on children’s vision from infancy through adolescence. The NCCVEH, now celebrating its 15th Anniversary, provides resources on getting your child ready for school, taking a child to an eye doctor, preparing your child for wearing glasses or contact lenses, tips for preventing eye injuries, and much more.
Prevent Blindness also recently launched the new “Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) Education and Support Program,” as part of the first-ever ROP Awareness Week. Retinopathy of Prematurity is a condition caused by abnormal development of retinal blood vessels, occurring as a complication of preterm birth and/or low birth weight. Prevent Blindness offers free fact sheets and social media graphics in English and Spanish, a dedicated webpage, and a comprehensive new video series, featuring parents of children with ROP, ROP patients, a pediatric ophthalmologist, psychologist, ROP nurse, and family support organizations. The program is supported by funding from Regeneron.
According to a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 2001 and 2017 the number of people under age 20 living with type 1 diabetes increased by 45 percent, and the number living with type 2 diabetes increased by 95 percent. For teens and young adults, Prevent Blindness offers the new “Diabetes + The Eyes: Vision Health in Youth” website and fact sheet in English and Spanish. This resource provides detailed information on what parents and care partners need to know to help youth with diabetes protect their eye health. The resources were developed with support from UnitedHealthcare.
Additionally, the Prevent Blindness Focus on Eye Health Expert Series has free episodes dedicated to children’s vision and eye health topics including:
“Children’s Vision and Eye Health,” with R.V. Paul Chan, MD, MSC, MBA, FACS, Head, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The John H. Panton Professor of Ophthalmology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, and Director, Pediatric Retina and Retinopathy of Prematurity Service, Illinois Eye and Ear, UI Health. Dr. Chan is also a volunteer member of the Prevent Blindness Board of Directors.
Through a partnership with Delta Gamma, “Children’s Vision and Parent Advocacy,” featuring Lauren C. Ditta, MD, Pediatric Neuro-Ophthalmologist at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Pediatrics at Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and Delta Gamma alumna.
Also available online is the recent “Emerging Eye Health Issues in Young Children” webinar from the Office of Head Start’s National Center for Health, Behavioral Health and Safety. Expert speakers included Donna Fishman, director of the NCCVEH; Elise B. Ciner, OD, FAAO, Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University; and Fuensanta A. Vera-Diaz, PhD, OD, Associate Professor of Optometry, New England College of Optometry, and volunteer on the Prevent Blindness Scientific Committee, who provided information on myopia prevention.
In order to promote early detection, care, and treatment for children’s vision, Prevent Blindness strongly encourages support of the newly introduced Early Detection of Vision Impairments for Children (EDVI) Act. The EDVI Act is landmark, bipartisan legislation that seeks to establish the first ever federal program for children’s vision which will provide grants for states and communities to improve children’s vision and eye health through coordinated systems of care, co-sponsored by Congressional Vision Caucus (CVC) co-chairs, U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and U.S. Representative Marc Veasey (TX-33). The EDVI Act is currently endorsed by more than 80 state and national organizations. Constituents are invited to contact their government representatives by visiting: Advocacy.PreventBlindness.org/prevent-blindness-legislative-action-center/#/.
State-by-state snapshots on children’s vision screening requirements, as well as percentage of children screened, and percentage of children who have received eye examinations, are also available at: Advocacy.PreventBlindness.org/edvi-childrens-vision-your-state/.
“Back in 1908, Prevent Blindness began as an organization dedicated to eradicating blindness in newborns. More than a century later, we continue to promote children’s vision and eye health through public education and by advocating for support of programs that provide access to eyecare,” said Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness. “We encourage everyone to join us in our mission, and find out how to help us put our kids on the path to a lifetime of healthy vision.”
About Prevent Blindness Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness is the nation’s leading volunteer eye health and safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight. Focused on promoting a continuum of vision care, Prevent Blindness touches the lives of millions of people each year through public and professional education, advocacy, certified vision screening and training, community and patient service programs and research. These services are made possible through the generous support of the American public. Together with a network of affiliates, Prevent Blindness is committed to eliminating preventable blindness in America. For more information, visit us at PreventBlindness.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Media Contact
Sarah Hecker, Prevent Blindness, 312.363.6035, [email protected], PreventBlindness.org
After a decade as a trailblazer in the wellness and pleasure spaces, Foria celebrates its achievements and successful evolution
BOULDER, Colo., July 30, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Foria, the all-natural, botanical-forward intimate wellness brand, this year celebrates its 10th anniversary. Founded in 2014, Foria was one of the first brands to kick off the sexual wellness boom, opening up public conversations about pleasure’s crucial role in overall well being. Over the past decade, the brand has expanded into additional categories, including menopause, menstrual wellness and bodycare. After 10 years of impressive growth, the brand remains committed to addressing the unmet needs of people of all ages.
Continued expansion into under-served markets and mainstream retailers, coupled with Foria’s dedication to modern-day sex education have helped the brand stand out in a competitive landscape, even in light of the social media censorship challenges that many businesses in the industry face. As the space continues to evolve (and new challenges emerge) Foria has remained an outspoken advocate for people facing issues of access and education around vital wellness products and services.
Foria will celebrate both the 10-year milestone as well as National Orgasm Day (July 31) by offering up to 40% off its products sitewide from July 27 – July 31. The company will also celebrate its legacy of innovation with new “legalize orgasms” merch, throwback marketing campaigns honoring the history of the brand and more. The goal is to continue to build community and reward its longtime consumers.
A few of the brand’s notable achievements from the past few years include:
The launch of several entirely new products, including Vibrance (daily use products designed to hydrate skin and alleviate discomfort often present during midlife and menopause), Intimacy Massage Oil, Cramps Be Gone (a bundle of products targeting common issues experienced during menstruation) and a suite of entirely CBD-free products.
The launch of the School of Unlearning in the Spring of 2020; this educational campaign featured diverse thought leaders who shared their experiences with sex and sex education, helping their communities unpack and unlearn the shame, heteronormative beliefs and harmful narratives that often surround love, sex, gender and intimacy – a reminder that pleasure and self-expression belong to everyone.
Expansion into 1,300 brick-and-mortar Ulta Beauty stores in 2022, along with the launch of several of Foria’s hero products online at www.ulta.com, including best selling products like Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD, Intimacy Breast Oil, Intimacy Sex Oil with CBD, Relief & Intimacy Melts and others.
The launch of Foria’s App on both the Apple and Android platforms, connecting Foria’s community to exclusive product launches, promotions and more, with plans to further expand the platform’s educational offerings in the coming year.
The launch of Foria’s Practitioner Program, creating a community of accredited women’s health & wellness professionals dedicated to modern day sex education, facilitating connections between these practitioners and their communities and sharing resources that each practitioner can pass along to their patients – including those who may feel shame or stigma around reaching out for help.
The unveiling of new packaging and branding, with more environmentally friendly materials and an eye toward the modern consumer – introducing refillable product packaging, 100% PCW paper and amber glass bottles with no paint, frosting or metallics.
Continued dedication to sustainable practices (read more here), with a focus on recyclable materials, waste reduction, close relationships with vendors to identify better packaging options, utilizing regional hubs to consolidate shipping and working closely with the Environmental Department to review packaging and merchandising for any hazards. In 2020, Foria assessed and shifted all packaging and sourcing in accordance with the guiding principles of BWE.
“It is with so much pride and appreciation that we celebrate Foria’s 10th anniversary and kick off our exciting National Orgasm Day sale. It’s been an honor to lead a brand dedicated to making pleasure and connection more accessible for all and to de-stigmatize the taboos around these vital and fundamental human experiences. Foria normalizes conversations about pleasure and intimacy and we stand for supporting people in their safe explorations as individuals and in relationship with their partners.” says Jon Brandon, Co-Founder and CEO of Foria. “Beyond developing and educating people about our life-changing products, Foria’s in-house experts are committed to furthering our sustainability, education and community initiatives. We look forward to continuing to innovate via new products and fostering healthy communication while continuing to support people throughout their lives.”
Foria is an innovative wellness company that makes life-changing, all-natural, organic formulas for pleasure enhancement, period care and menopause support. Rooted in the belief that pleasure is your nature, Foria sets the standards in the intimate wellness space for clean, innovative and highly effective formulas. With award-winning products, Foria supports intimate needs across every stage of life to bring more pleasure to more people.
Guided by the wisdom of plants, Foria intentionally selects botanicals to solve real needs and deliver meaningful results. Foria’s products are sustainably made from seed to shelf, with a commitment to organic & regeneratively farmed ingredients and low-impact packaging. Every product is made domestically in the USA, with Mother Nature in mind every step of the way.
The 2022 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) noted that children are twice as likely to face violence during trafficking than adults. Nearly 60% of detected trafficking victims are from regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. Children are trafficked for a variety of reasons including forced labor, illegal adoption, recruitment into armed forces, sexual abuse and exploitation.
UNODC added, “Amid overlapping crises such as armed conflicts, pandemics, economic hardships and environmental challenges, children are increasingly vulnerable to trafficking. Furthermore, the proliferation of online platforms poses additional risks as children often connect to these sites without adequate safeguards. Traffickers exploit online platforms, social media, and the dark web to recruit and exploit children, utilizing technology to evade detection, reach wider audiences, and disseminate exploitative content.”
Salesian missionaries who operate in more than 130 countries work both to prevent human trafficking and to care for victims who are living on the streets and seeking a second chance in life.
“Salesian missionaries not only work with victims who have been trafficked but are working to prevent trafficking through awareness and education,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions. “Salesian missionaries educate youth about the dangers associated with migration, which can put them at risk of trafficking and those who might wish them harm. One of the primary ways we support youth is understanding the needs of the local market and providing training programs that help youth find work in their own communities in employment sectors that are looking for skilled labor.”
To mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2024, Salesian Missions is proud to highlight programs around the globe that provide life-changing education to help educate and support youth.
EL SALVADOR Youth in Salesian programs in cantons of Tonacatepeque, El Salvador, received bicycles thanks to a donation from World Vision secured by Salesian Missions. The bicycles, distributed by the Laura Vicuña Pro Education Foundation, were given to 120 boys and girls. In addition, 163 others, including siblings and mothers, will benefit from the bicycles. Also included in the shipment from another donor were laptops to enhance the children’s education.
The bicycles will serve as a means of transportation to go to school, take corn to the mill, carry water jugs and to have fun with neighborhood friends. To distribute the bicycles, an athletic competition was held for youth in the age categories of 8-9 years old, 10-12 years old, and 13-15 years old. Competitions were held separately for boys and girls for each age group. The winners received the bicycles.
Nikol Margarita Galdamez, age 9, said, “At first I didn’t want to compete, I was afraid that others would beat me. In the second round, I went for it and won.” Another winner, Oscar Leonel López, age 11, explained, “The bike is too big for me, but I can reach it and I can ride it. I am very happy!” One young girl, René Larios Mazariegos, age 9, expressed her joy, “I always dreamed of a bike.”
INDIA Salesian missionaries with SURABI, the Salesian Project Development Office of Chennai, India, have five vehicles to support their work thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions. The vehicles are helping Salesians provide services for youth at risk and carry out youth pastoral work.
A Salesian said, “Thanks to these vehicles we have been able to bring mission activities to the poorest of the poor in the rural areas for the sustainable development of marginalized families, especially youth. We have also been able to focus on safety, growth and development with personalized care and protection for at-risk youth. Our commitment remains unwavering in positively transforming the lives of those in need within our communities.”
The donation has impacted 18 Salesian parishes including more than 8,000 youth. Close to 12,000 college students and technical and vocational training students are also impacted positively by the donation. Further, Salesians have been able to use the vehicles in youth centers and to reach youth in vulnerable communities.
The Salesian explained, “The transport facilitation has also enhanced the outreach efforts to reach more than 6,000 youth for coordination with government departments, social institutions and academic centers.”
SIERRA LEONE Don Bosco Fambul in Freetown, one of Sierra Leone’s leading child-welfare organizations, has added staffing support thanks to a grant from the Flora Family Foundation secured by Salesian Missions. The Flora Family Foundation was established in 1998 by the family of William R. Hewlett (co-founder of the Hewlett-Packard Company) and his wife Flora Lamson Hewlett to support social progress, environmental well-being and cultural vibrancy.
Don Bosco Fambul provides a range of programs to help support youth who are living on the streets, girls who have faced sexual abuse, young women who have forced into prostitution and youth in trouble with the law. With the funding, Don Bosco Fambul was able to add a program manager, advocacy officer and communications officer.
Thanks to the staffing support, Don Bosco Fambul raised public awareness about child sexual exploitation and promoted its Child Line 525 for reporting child abuse and crimes committed against children. Through an advocacy campaign, Don Bosco Fambul staff educated the public about sex offenses, child rights, sexual exploitation and the consequences when these laws are broken. They also provided information on the channels by which the public can access justice in such cases.
UGANDA Salesian missionaries run Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (Don Bosco CALM), located in the town of Namugongo, just northeast of the city of Kampala, Uganda. The Salesian organization rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates street children back into society. Salesians meet basic needs and provide education, socio-cultural activities and recreation to help youth have a bright future.
Don Bosco CALM works primarily with homeless boys and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. They also work with other vulnerable youth and children, including those who are HIV/AIDS positive. Currently, the organization has 165 children in its care. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.
Peter is one of the youth at Don Bosco CALM. When he was only 9 months old, his mother placed him in the care of his grandmother and then disappeared from his life. At age 6, Peter lost his father. When none of his other family members could take care of him, he spent seven years on the streets.
Thanks to intervention by Peter’s aunt, he went to live at Don Bosco CALM, where he had trusting adults to provide support. One Salesian said, “As soon as he arrived, he received the care he needed and was enrolled in school. At school, he discovered the desire to study, obtained very good scores, and always stood out for his commitment and results. Today, Peter happily attends secondary school and gives everyone a smile, cheerfulness and his gratitude for this journey.”
About Salesian Missions USA Salesian Missions is headquartered in New Rochelle, NY, and is part of the Don Bosco Network—a worldwide federation of Salesian NGOs. The mission of the U.S.-based nonprofit Catholic organization is to raise funds for international programs that serve youth and families in poor communities around the globe. The Salesian missionaries are made up of priests, brothers and sisters, as well as laypeople—all dedicated to caring for poor children throughout the world in more than 130 countries and helping young people become self-sufficient by learning a trade that will help them gain employment. To date, more than 3 million youth have received services funded by Salesian Missions. These services and programs are provided to children regardless of race or religion. For more information, go to SalesianMissions.org.
“As we introduce woom to more families across the world, not only do we delight in seeing kids embrace cycling, but each bike brings us valuable customer feedback, driving continual improvement to the woom experience. Our new bike basket has been a highly-anticipated accessory and we are confident it will satisfy consumer demand with convenience, style and fun,” said April Obersteller, Managing Director of North America. “Our design and innovation teams took an accessory that already existed in many forms on the market, and reinvented it with the woom rider in mind, making the journey more enjoyable than ever.”
Made from a flexible, yet durable compression resistant foam, the basket is molded with rounded contour to securely fit on the BMX handlebars with balanced weight distribution for safe handling, earning a Red Dot Design Award for its design innovation and utility.
“At woom, we don’t settle for simple answers. We keep tinkering until our product meets the needs of every child rider. This was true for our ORIGINAL bike, and it drives us with every new product innovation, including the POP Kids’ Bike Basket,” said Daniel Kloboucnik, Senior Product Designer. “After more than two years of intensive development and over 100 prototypes, we created a child-friendly accessory with features that pair fun with functionality.”
Available in four playful colors – banana yellow, wild violet, bubble gum blue and pebble grey – the POP Kids’ Bike Baskets are available online and select retailers for $39.90.
For a personalized touch, the baskets are compatible with POP ON Bike Basket Charms, encouraging creativity and customization. Sold separately as a pack of four unique characters, the charms are available for $14.90
About woom: woom is a globally-acclaimed children’s bicycle company, originally founded in Austria in 2013 and has since expanded internationally to 30 countries worldwide. woom has disrupted the kids’ bike category in North America, as the largest and fastest growing direct-to-consumer brands in the space. Its award-winning bikes include options that are 40% lighter than conventional kids’ bikes, making woom bikes the lightest series-production kids’ bikes in the world. For more information, visit woom.com or @woombikesusa on Instagram.
