Category Archives: Society

The Latest news about what is effecting Society in North America, These PR articles, bring the newest technologies, initiatives and helpful tools to those who need them.

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Verity Credit Union’s CEO Tonita Webb and Chief Impact Strategy Officer Ziquora Banks Honored for Their Profound Impact

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American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Credit Unions celebrates senior executives guiding the future of the credit union industry while also examining issues of mentorship and inclusion. Tonita Webb of Verity is a distinguished recipient of this award, recognized for her achievements in meeting the needs of underserved groups to build stronger, more inclusive communities, addressing deeply rooted challenges associated with systemic racism and the disproportionate impact of climate change. She harnesses the power of technology to create new pathways to generational wealth and introduces industry-leading strategies to drive the important mission of credit unions – to serve our communities.

“I am deeply honored to be acknowledged among the most powerful women in credit unions by American Banker,” said Tonita Webb, CEO of Verity. “As a passionate advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion in the credit union industry, our commitment has reshaped the leadership landscape, fostering inclusivity and innovation. As a result, we are better positioned to serve our members and community, ensuring a vibrant future for all, unencumbered by barriers to success.”

Credit Union Times Rising Star Luminaries Award recognizes young credit union professionals who have shown great potential within their organization. It honors individuals who have developed new skills, taken on new responsibilities, and worked on initiatives that have propelled their credit union forward. Ziquora Banks received this award for her exceptional talent, unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission, and tremendous impact. As the youngest Black woman on the executive management track in Verity Credit Union’s history, she’s displayed leadership qualities that have uniquely catapulted her to this position early in her career.

“It’s a tremendous recognition to be named a Rising Star in the Credit Union Times Luminaries Awards,” said Ziquora Banks, Chief Impact Strategy Officer. “I’m incredibly honored to be seen for my drive and dedication, fostering innovation and empowering my team to push boundaries and disrupt traditional norms that activate Veriy’s purpose. It aligns wholly with my intention to deliver customized, sustainable solutions for our members, especially underserved communities.”

Ziquora Banks and Tonita Webb embody the mission of Verity Credit Union in prioritizing people, the planet, and prosperity for all over the bottom line. For more information, visit www.veritycu.com.

Images can be found HERE.

Media Contact

Jennifer Karkar Ritchie, Verity Credit Union, 1 206-344-8049, [email protected], www.veritycu.com

SOURCE Verity Credit Union

Society: Christianity

SAASTEPS Announces Philanthropic Strategy Through Steps of Kindness Program

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The program’s first partnership with the Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) started out as a business relationship that began several years ago, when co-founder Tim Beck was referred to BIT founder Mike Hess as a subject matter expert (SME) within the Salesforce economy. “I have come to find out that Tim is not only a SME, [but] he is also an inclusion champion. Tim has been helpful to BIT discussing technical concepts and business opportunities,” said Hess. BIT was founded by Hess after he spent nearly 20 years within the telecom industry, often being labeled as the “token blind guy”. Hess eventually left the corporate world after learning about the alarming 80% unemployment and underemployment rate among the blind and visually impaired (BVI) community. Hess recognized the untapped expertise and capabilities in the BVI, thereby commencing BIT’s transformative journey into the only consulting agency in the world comprised of people with disabilities.

SAASTEPS sponsored BIT’s annual Dining in the Dark Gala for a second year in a row this past October. The gala raises funds to help significantly reduce the severe un/underemployment rates within the BVI community. The event also offers attendees a unique sensory opportunity – dining without sight. “We wore blindfolds for part of the dinner,” said SAASTEPS attendee and Director of Business Development Todd Zitin. “Mike offered humorous encouragement and advice on how to work on our plates without the benefit of light, which we all take for granted.” Hess includes this as part of the gala each year in order to foster heart-centered conversations around blindness and disability, which he says are the most taboo of all inclusion-oriented topics. “I walked away from this experience with a renewed sense of respect and empathy for our fellow human beings. By closing our eyes, we opened our minds to gain valuable perspective of our human family,” said Zitin.

“We’re so grateful for all of the opportunities and resources we have access to,” said Rachel Beck. “As the business grows, it’s more important than ever for us to give back, to leave steps of kindness, wherever we can.” Look out for more initiatives from Steps of Kindness, coming soon.

Follow SAASTEPs on LinkedIn for the latest updates on this program and more.

Media Contact

Dana Jung, SAASTEPS, (650) 759-0508, [email protected], www.saasteps.com

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SOURCE SAASTEPS



Society: Christianity

Christys Foundation will be giving 100’s of toys to children in need with the theme, Better to Give than Receive”

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“Let’s be the catalyst for change and demonstrate to these children that a world filled with kindness and hope is just around the corner”. Christy Dawson

GLENDALE, Calif., Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Christys Foundation will Host its Annual Christmas Giveaway in Support of Children in need. They will have toys, socks and pictures with Santa. “Let’s be the catalyst for change and demonstrate to these children that a world filled with kindness and hope is just around the corner.”— Christy Dawson

Prepare for an unforgettable Christmas event that promises to brighten the lives of children and families who need it most. Christy’s Foundation is thrilled to present their Annual Christmas Giveaway, a heartwarming celebration dedicated to supporting those in need and spreading the true joy of the season.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and there’s no better way to share the spirit of love, joy, and cheer than by joining them at Christy’s Foundation Annual Christmas Giveaway. This event is not to be missed, and it’s guaranteed to be brimming with unforgettable moments.

Christys Foundation invites everyone to come together with as they embark on a mission to make this holiday season exceptionally special for everyone in need. At Christy’s Foundation, they open their hearts to all and bring a generous dose of love, fun, care, and joy right to your doorstep.

This Christmas, they urge you to be part of a real-life transformation in the lives of children. The event embodies the genuine spirit of the season, where the act of giving truly surpasses that of receiving. Attendees’ presence and support will create magical moments for kids who deserve it most.

“Let’s be the catalyst for change and demonstrate to these children that a world filled with kindness and hope is just around the corner. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to share this incredible day with you” Christy Dawson.

Presents Galore: A magical assortment of presents waiting to be shared with those who need them most.

Annual Giveaway: A tradition of giving back continues, and this year, it’s going to be bigger and better than ever!

Socks, Toys and Pictures with Santa: Bring the whole family because they have an abundance of socks and toys to go around.

Mark your calendars for December 9, 2023, from 2 PM to 6 PM.

Location: Join them at the Glendale Galleria, located at 2144 Glendale Galleria, right at the Footbuddys store on the 2nd floor next to JC Penney and Pro Image.

As they prepare for Christy’s Foundation Annual Christmas Giveaway, they extend an open invitation to those who wish to be a part of this heartwarming event. This is an opportunity to spread love, joy, and hope to children and families in need during the holiday season.

Special Guest: Landon Barker, Kingcarlx, Shanice Wilson and more

Sponsored by: footbuddys & Kenan Thompson

Media Contact

Christy Dawson, Christys Foundation, 1 8185819790, [email protected], www.christysfoundation.org

SOURCE Christys Foundation

Society: Social Services

80 Families Fed in Miami Gardens Turkey Drive

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The event was honored by the presence of Councilman Robert Stephens, who represented the city of Miami Gardens. Councilman Stephens engaged in meaningful dialogue with the officers of the Gregory Smith Jr Foundation, discussing the critical role of nonprofit organizations in the community. The conversation also touched on the foundation’s purpose and explored future collaborations to enhance community events.

SteinLaw extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the donors who made this event possible, including VictimAdvocate.com, ANSANBL, TLC Recovery House, M&H Automotive, and numerous community members. The collective efforts resulted in raising $230, a testament to the community’s spirit and generosity.

“We are overwhelmed by the support and participation from the Miami Gardens community. This event was not just about providing a meal but about bringing the community together, showing solidarity, and giving back,” said a representative of SteinLaw.

SteinLaw remains committed to serving and supporting the Miami Gardens community and looks forward to organizing more events that foster community spirit and aid those in need.

For more information about SteinLaw and their community initiatives, please visit https://www.steinlaw.com/.

About SteinLaw

SteinLaw is a distinguished law firm recognized for its commitment to personal injury cases and its unyielding dedication to seeking justice for its clients. Led by Founder Brandon Stein, the firm offers robust legal representation, fighting to achieve maximum recovery for each case.

Media Contact

Charlotte Arkwright, Exults, 954- 773-9920, [email protected]

SOURCE SteinLaw

Society: Social Services

Lanzone Morgan, LLP Secures Justice for Late Long Beach Veteran, Lawrence Eber, in Landmark Financial Elder Abuse Trial

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Over 11 months, Veterans Care Coordination, LLC withdrew 99.8% ($19,838.00) of Mr. Eber’s entitled benefit, leaving him with a mere $40.00 of his benefit. According to court documents, this conduct by the defendant involved concealing from Mr. Eber and his brother the fact that Mr. Eber was entitled to keep the pension portion of his benefit and did not have to use his entire VA benefit for home care services, from which the company profited through commissions.

After a rigorous trial before a jury of 12 in Long Beach, the jury found Veterans Care Coordination, LLC liable for financial elder abuse. The jury awarded $19,817.00 in economic damages, $50,000.00 in noneconomic damages, and $375,000.00 in punitive damages. According to Richard Eber, the brother of Lawrence Eber, “We need to stop this cottage industry that is taking pension benefits from vulnerable Veterans. I hope this verdict will be noticed by the VA and will draw attention to those businesses that profit by manipulating U.S. Veterans out of their pensions.”

James Morgan of Lanzone Morgan, LLP, representing the plaintiff’s estate, stated, “After four years of litigation, it is gratifying to see a jury agree that Veterans Care Coordination, LLC’s conduct amounted to financial elder abuse and should be punishable with a punitive damage verdict. This is a victory not only for Lawrence Eber but for all Veterans who may have been victimized by Veterans Care Coordination, LLC. No one should profit by wrongfully taking the pensions of U.S. Veterans.”

The verdict sends a strong message against the exploitation of elderly veterans and underscores the importance of protecting this vulnerable segment of our community. Lanzone Morgan, LLP remains committed to fighting against elder abuse and upholding the rights of seniors, especially those who have served our country.

About Lanzone Morgan, LLP

Lanzone Morgan, LLP is a leading elder abuse law firm, specializing in litigating cases of nursing home and elder abuse. With a deep commitment to defending the rights of elderly and dependent adults, the firm has been a steadfast advocate in securing justice for victims of elder abuse and neglect.

Media Contact

Evan Lamont, Lanzone Morgan, LLP, 1 5625376936 701, [email protected], https://lanzonemorgan.com

SOURCE Lanzone Morgan, LLP

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

2024 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year® Nominations Open Nationally

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The award recognizes military spouses and integrates them into an ongoing program dedicated to developing leadership skills, broadening professional networks, enhancing life and advocacy skills, and fostering community impact.

Nominees undergo a rigorous four-stage selection process, culminating in the announcement of the 2024 AFI MSOY in Washington, D.C., in early May 2024. Criteria for evaluation include military community involvement, leadership acumen, community engagement, communication skills, and personal journey.

Key dates for the selection process are as follows:

  • National Nominations: December 4 – January 26
  • Introduction of Candidates: February 1
  • Base Voting Period: February 5-9
  • Announcement of Base Winners: February 13
  • Top 21 Branch Finalists Announced: February 22
  • Branch Voting: February 27-28
  • Branch Winners Announced: March 4
  • Overall AFI MSOY Voting: March 7-8
  • AFI MSOY Week: May 6-10
  • Overall AFI MSOY Announced: May 11

For detailed information about the AFI Military Spouse of the Year® award, including criteria for nominees, voting procedures, and opportunities for sponsorship, please visit msoy.afi.org.

Media Contact

Lakesha Cole, she PR, 1 (813) 693-1071, [email protected], www.shepr.co

SOURCE Armed Forces Insurance

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Brandon Weening joins Lime Connect Canada Board of Directors

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OMERS, one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans, and its real estate arm, Oxford Properties, began its partnership with Lime in 2023, supporting talent acquisition through recruitment and networking events. OMERS also partners with Lime for events and other forums that provide education opportunities for those working in the disability talent space. As an organization, OMERS recognizes that diverse talents drive business forward and is dedicated to empowering employees who want to make an impact.

Andrew Masson, Senior Director of Corporate HR at Rogers Communications, and president of Lime Connect Canada’s Board of Directors, says, “Brandon is a highly respected business professional, and his leadership and strategic focus are assets to Lime Connect Canada’s work throughout the provinces. We are proud to welcome him to the Board, and are excited to partner to highlight the importance, and incredible value, of the broad talent pool of people with disabilities as a result.”

Weening, speaking of his role with Lime Connect, said, “At OMERS we are building tomorrow together – which requires that we foster a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As someone with a non-visible disability, I know how meaningful it is to work for organizations, like OMERS, that recognize and value each person’s diverse strengths and talents. This is why I’m proud to join Lime Connect Canada, and to support its mission — breaking stereotypes and leading employers to empower professionals with disabilities.”

About Lime Connect
Lime Connect is a not-for-profit organization that is rebranding disability through achievement – with the largest network of high-potential university students and professionals with disabilities (including veterans) in the world. Lime attracts, prepares, and connects disabled individuals for scholarships, leadership programs, internships, and full-time careers with our partners — the world’s leading corporations. This work showcases the vast strengths and talents that are found in disabilities, and provides individuals with tools, self-confidence, community, and connections to realize their dreams.

Lime Connect developed The Lime Community in 2023 as the go-to resource for talent, education, and community in the disability talent space. All individuals with an interest are encouraged to join, and engage, as People with Disabilities (Lime Network members’ private community), or the broader communities of Friends of Lime (allies), university partners, and corporate partners.
Learn more, and join us, at http://www.limeconnect.com.

Media Contact

Susan Lang, Lime Connect, (212) 521-4469, [email protected], www.limeconnect.com

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SOURCE Lime Connect



Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Frazier & Deeter Recognized as Best Firm for Equity in Leadership

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“At FD, we are committed to our team’s development. Through comprehensive training, dedicated mentoring and flexible workplace initiatives, we’ve fostered an environment where talent thrives. Notably, 35% of our partners and principals are women, and we are excited about further cultivating an environment where all team members, regardless of level, can realize their full potential both personally and professionally,” noted Seth McDaniel, FD Managing Partner.

FD has fostered a resilient culture that centers on growth and uplifts employees, clients and its local communities. To fortify this base, the firm continues to prioritize Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) efforts that educate, encourage and pave the way for fair opportunities.

“As Chair of the Board, I am thrilled that FD has once again been recognized as a Best Firm for Equity Leadership,” said LeighAnn Costley, FD Partner and Chair of the Board of Directors. “We have experienced substantial growth in revenue, employee headcount and number of partners over the past ten years and have consistently maintained our commitment to diversity in leadership throughout that time. As we look to the future, we will continue to build on this success by focusing on our brand promise to invest in relationships together to make an impactful difference for our people and clients.”

Since 2010, the Accounting MOVE Project has been dedicated to assessing and promoting the progress of women in accounting and consulting firms. It stands out as the sole annual benchmarking initiative that not only quantifies but also advocates for the advancement of women in the profession.

“When options abound, women want to work for firms that appreciate their talents and give them opportunities to advance at a pace that fits with the rest of their lives. That’s why programs like the Accounting MOVE Project are so important to identify firms that have a history of women in leadership and offer flexible career options,” said Cindy Stanley, Executive Director of the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance.

About Frazier & Deeter
Frazier & Deeter is an award-winning Top 50 accounting and advisory firm that offers a full scope of tax, audit, internal controls advisory and business transformation services. FD and its family of brands serve clients worldwide, from the Fortune Global 500 companies to growing small businesses, and the firm has been recognized repeatedly as a Best of the Best Accounting firm, a Best Firm to Work For® and a Best Firm for Women in Leadership.

About the Accounting MOVE Project
The Accounting MOVE Project is based on the MOVE methodology, developed by research partner Wilson-Taylor Associates, Inc., which investigates the factors proven to be essential to women’s career success:
M – Money: fair pay practices;
O – Opportunity: advancement and leadership development;
V – Vital supports: work-life programs that remove barriers;
E – Entrepreneurship: operating experience for managing or business ownership
The MOVE Project advisory board includes leaders from association partner the Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance, founding sponsor Moss Adams and supporting sponsor SAPRO. See the archives of MOVE Project reports at https://accountingmoveproject.com/archives/. 

Media Contact

Katelyn Brown, Frazier & Deeter, 770.880.0372, [email protected], https://www.frazierdeeter.com/

SOURCE Frazier & Deeter

Society: Christianity

CarrTech Corp. Poised to Reduce Needle Sticks & Glass Shard Contamination in Medications

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More than 50% of medical solutions are packaged in glass ampoules globally. Medical professionals must break the glass to access medications, risking the introduction of glass shards into the liquid – and ultimately patients. The current two-needle, multi-step filtration process is cumbersome, especially when seconds count.

As Carr explains, “every time you touch the needle there is an increased risk of sepsis and a needle stick.” She calculates that the time invested in calling out HAZMAT teams and processing reports related to such needle sticks saps about $5B from hospitals annually. Then there’s insurance and liability. That’s above and beyond the human cost in pain and suffering if jagged glass microparticles are inadvertently injected into a patient.

Kathie Callahan Brady is FITCI’s CEO and a CarrTech advisor. “Taking a medical device from concept to marketplace can be a steep climb, but Sue and her team are truly dedicated. They understand what a huge impact this product will have on people and industry.”

According to CarrTech’s research, FROG, has reasonable commercial potential to become the new standard of care for the $6B global filter market (growing at a CAGR of 9.9%), facilitating the use of more than six billion disposable glass ampoules each year.

In 2023 the company also made progress in its sterilization and bioburden testing, performed human factor studies, engaged Becton Dickinson as a strategic partner, and created an “instruction for use” video. In early 2024, the CarrTech will expand into FITCI’s new entrepreneurial innovation center, the EDGE@321 in the City of Frederick, MD.

Callahan Brady says, “This is an incredibly exciting time for CarrTech. Investors and industry leaders are paying attention. And we can’t wait to see how much they will accomplish in 2024.”

About CarrTech

CarrTech is a medical technology company and inventor of the FROG™ (Filter Removal of Glass) device. FROG combines the traditional multi-step, two needle process of filtering glass particles from medicines into a single step with an all-in-one needle that is safer, faster, greener, and more efficient for healthcare providers. http://www.carrtechcorp.com

See the F.R.O.G. video on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_PwSFCoAVU

About FITCI

FITCI, the Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc., fosters entrepreneurial activity in Frederick, Maryland’s science and technology industries, including early-stage life science, IT, Agtech, renewable energy and related business sectors. Its purpose is to enable emerging entrepreneurs, encourage innovation, and accelerate development of commercially viable businesses that contribute to a healthy economy through coaching, connections, and equitable access to resources within a collaborative community environment. http://www.fitci.org

About QMBCs

The Maryland Department of Commerce Biotechnology Investment Incentive Tax Credit (BIITC) provides an income tax credit equal to 33% of an eligible investment in a Qualified Maryland Biotechnology Company (QMBC) up to $250,000 in tax credits, or 50% of an eligible investment in a QMBC up to $500,000 in tax credits if the QMBC is located in Allegany, Dorchester, Garrett or Somerset County.

Read more about safety concerns with glass particle contamination at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34101800/

Media Contact

Sue E. Carr RPh., President and Founder, CarrTech Corp., 240-620-2309, [email protected], http://www.carrtechcorp.com

Kathie Callahan Brady, CEO, FITCI, 301-694-2999, [email protected], www.fitci.org

SOURCE CarrTech Corp.

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Rite-Solutions Receives HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award 2023

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Dedicated to hiring and supporting veterans, Rite-Solutions was among 153 medium-sized companies nationwide that received the Platinum award—the program’s highest tier.

MIDDLETOWN, R.I., Dec. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Rite-Solutions was recently a recipient of the Platinum HIRE Vets Medallion Award for 2023.

The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing (HIRE) American Military Veterans Act of 2017 established the HIRE Vets Medallion Program which recognizes employers that recruit, hire, retain, and develop veterans. Applications are reviewed annually, and award recipients are notified at a time to coincide with Veterans Day.

This year almost 860 companies received the award. Rite-Solutions is one of 153 medium-sized companies nationwide receiving the Platinum award—the program’s highest tier.

“This is the third year we have applied for and received the HIRE Vets Platinum award,” notes Joe Marino, Founder and CEO of Rite-Solutions. “We are proud to support our nation’s veterans. They bring the same dedication and work ethic to the workplace that they did in service of our country.”

To receive the award, 10% of employees must be veterans. In addition, 10% of new hires must be veterans or 85% of hired veterans must be retained. Companies must also have veteran integration assistance programs designed to support veterans.

“Veterans bring unique experiences, skills, and expertise to Rite-Solutions. We also have a shared passion about serving today’s armed forces and we are honored to win this award” says Susan Borden, Vice President of People Operations at Rite-Solutions.

Rite-Solutions, Inc. is an award-winning small business specializing in system engineering, software development, information technology (IT), and cyber security for government and commercial segments. Rite-Solutions has offices in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Washington D.C. For more information, please visit https://www.rite-solutions.com.

For more information on the HIRE Vets Medallion Program, please visit https://www.hirevets.gov

Media Contact

John Thornell, Rite-Solutions, 1 8604154882, [email protected], www.rite-solutions.com

SOURCE Rite-Solutions