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: Christianity

Meet the 2023-2024 Class of Girl Up’s Global Teen Advisory Board

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Introducing 24 youth leaders working with Girl Up to advance gender equity worldwide

WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Girl Up is thrilled to announce the next cohort of youth leaders joining its 2023-2024 Teen Advisory Board from around the world. Since the United Nations Foundation launched Girl Up in 2010, the organization has been dedicated to creating a global movement for gender justice developed and led by young changemakers. The Teen Advisory Board is a central piece of Girl Up’s “by girls, for girls” mission.

“We are filled with immense joy to welcome a new class of Girl Up Global Teen Advisors,” says CEO of Girl Up, Melissa Kilby. “These bold and brilliant teenagers represent the transformative power of youth leadership the Girl Up movement so fiercely embodies. Their passionate advocacy and unwavering commitment to gender justice are not only an inspiration to me but also to our global community of changemakers. Together, we will shatter barriers, drive meaningful impact, and continue creating a future where every girl can thrive.”

This year’s class represents 14 countries across the globe: Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Chile, Ghana, India, Kenya, Peru, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Turkey.

Each of the 24 high school students on the incoming Teen Advisory Board holds a strong background in advocacy and a passion for social change. From reproductive justice and racial equity to climate action and education, these leaders are already using their voices and skills to create change across their communities. Through independent projects and advocacy coursework on Girl Up’s virtual learning platform, the Girl Up Academy, these leaders will gain the knowledge, resources and support to amplify their activism across the globe.

Teen Advisors are an integral part of Girl Up, providing feedback on our organizational strategy and energizing other leaders in our growing global network to take action for gender justice. Their impact doesn’t end with their one-year tenure; these changemakers will also continue to lead as key members of Girl Up alumni in the years to come.

Each Global Teen Advisory Board includes two members from the previous class to serve as co-chairs. This year’s co-chairs are Lilianne Asokwah (USA) and Saundarya Nair (India).

“Being a part of the Teen Advisor class of 2022-2023 was truly a momentous experience: we have never felt more accepted, understood, or appreciated. This program allowed us to not only grow our passion for gender justice, but also to fully understand the impact our voices can have. We now have lifelong sisters who will continue to inspire us in every aspect of life.” expressed Lilianne and Saundarya. “Our excitement for this incoming class is immeasurable— we can’t wait to see the beautiful, powerful and daring things we will achieve!”

The 2023-2024 class of the Teen Advisory Board includes:

  • Aasha Khan, Canada
  • Angela Yang, USA
  • Anya Govil, USA
  • Charlie Levy, USA
  • Cynthia Medina, USA
  • Emmanuela Kumi, UK
  • Eylül Erçin, Turkey
  • Gabriella Miranda, USA
  • Gloria Mariwa, Kenya
  • Isidora Santander Pizarro, Chile
  • Kelly Chaves, Brazil
  • Lilianne Asokwah, USA* 
  • Lilian Paredes, Peru
  • Luna Ramírez, Colombia
  • Lutfiya Inusah, Ghana–
  • Nirvana Talukder, Australia
  • Pranavaa Giri, India
  • Saranya Singh, USA
  • Saundarya Nair, India*
  • Shanum Sarkar, Bangladesh
  • Tessa Kiyonaga, USA
  • Tessa Michaelidis, USA
  • Yehansa Dayara, UAE
  • Zoe Lenz, USA

*Denotes Teen Advisor Co-Chair.

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About Girl Up

Girl Up is a movement to advance girls’ skills, rights, and opportunities to be leaders. Founded by the United Nations Foundation in 2010, Girl Up’s leadership development programs have impacted 125,000 girls through 5,600 Clubs in 130 countries and all 50 U.S. states, inspiring a generation of girls to be a force for gender equality and social change.

Media Contact

Hanna Nussair, Girl Up, +1 202-372-9499, [email protected]

SOURCE Girl Up

Society: Social Services

Ziegler Prices $59,925,000 Financing For Ohio Living 2023

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Ziegler, a specialty investment bank, is pleased to announce the successful pricing of Ohio Living’s Series 2023 Bonds.

CHICAGO, Aug. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Ziegler, a specialty investment bank, is pleased to announce the successful pricing of Ohio Living’s Series 2023 Bonds.

Ohio Living is a not-for-profit senior living organization founded in 1922 that owns and operates 12 communities located throughout the state of Ohio. According to the 2022 LeadingAge Ziegler 200 publication, Ohio Living is the second largest nonprofit senior living provider in Ohio and the 22nd largest nonprofit senior living provider in the nation, based on the number of senior living units.

Proceeds of the Series 2023 Bonds will be used to refund existing bank debt, terminate an interest rate swap agreement, fund a debt service reserve fund equal to approximately one year of debt service, fund approximately $3 million of capital expenditures and pay certain costs of issuance associated with the financing. The Series 2023 Bonds consist of tax-exempt fixed interest rate serial and term bonds with an 18-year final maturity. The Series 2023 Bonds feature a 3-year interest only period with annual principal amortization starting in 2026. Ohio Living decided to utilize fixed interest rate bonds to refund a portion of its bank capital following the turbulence experienced in early 2023 in the bank credit markets.

As part of the bond marketing process, Ohio Living’s management team made an in-person presentation to an audience of potential institutional investors attending Ziegler’s annual senior living investor workshop. The marketing and negotiated sales process resulted in six institutions participating in the offering, two of which were new investors to Ohio Living. The overall resulting average yield on the Series 2023 Bonds was 5.24% and they are callable in 7 years at 103%, declining to par in 10 years. The Series Bonds have an investment-grade rating of “BBB-” from Fitch Ratings.

Ziegler has served Ohio Living many times as underwriter and placement agent over the past 30 years. Ziegler’s last work with Ohio Living was in 2022, serving as sole underwriter on the Series 2022 fixed rate bond issuance which was a 6-month forward-settle refinancing.

Bob Stillman, Chief Financial Officer of Ohio Living stated, “once Ohio Living realized it needed to replace one of its historic commercial banking partners, it wanted to restore stability to this portion of its capital structure in short order. Having completed a bond financing in 2022, Ohio Living summonsed its experienced financing team of attorneys, advisors and Ziegler as underwriter to prepare, price and close this issue within 90 days. Ohio Living appreciates Ziegler’s depth of knowledge, industry specialization and execution capabilities resulting in a tremendous outcome that serves to solidify our capital structure for the future.”

Tom Meyers, Senior Managing Director, Ziegler Senior Living Finance added, “Ziegler is pleased to have the opportunity to serve its long-term client Ohio Living once again. Given the recent changes in the bank credit marketplace, this financing created a wonderful opportunity for it to step past these issues by quickly accessing friendly, long-term capital in the public, fixed interest rate markets. Ziegler continues to be impressed by Ohio Living’s progressive strategic decisions relating to its business and operating model in the face of an everchanging marketplace for senior care.”

Ziegler is the nation’s leading underwriter of financings for not-for-profit senior living providers. Ziegler offers creative, tailored solutions to its senior living clientele, including investment banking, financial risk management, merger and acquisition services, seed capital, FHA/HUD, capital and strategic planning as well as senior living research, education, and communication.

For more information about Ziegler, please visit us at http://www.ziegler.com.

About Ziegler:
Ziegler is a privately held, national boutique investment bank, capital markets and proprietary investments firm. It has a unique focus on healthcare, senior living and education sectors, as well as general municipal and structured finance. Headquartered in Chicago with regional and branch offices throughout the U.S., Ziegler provides its clients with capital raising, strategic advisory services, fixed income sales, underwriting and trading as well as Ziegler Credit, Surveillance and Analytics. To learn more, visit http://www.ziegler.com.

Certain comments in this news release represent forward-looking statements made pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This client’s experience may not be representative of the experience of other clients, nor is it indicative of future performance or success. The forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, in particular, the overall financial health of the securities industry, the strength of the healthcare sector of the U.S. economy and the municipal securities marketplace, the ability of the Company to underwrite and distribute securities, the market value of mutual fund portfolios and separate account portfolios advised by the Company, the volume of sales by its retail brokers, the outcome of pending litigation, and the ability to attract and retain qualified employees.

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Media Contact

Christine McCarty, Ziegler, 3125961617, cmccarty@ziegler.com

SOURCE Ziegler

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® and Panda Express® Celebrate More Than $150M Raised for Children’s Hospitals

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For 16 years, the largest Asian dining concept and their nonprofit partner have joined together to change kids’ health to change the future

SALT LAKE CITY, Aug. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Panda Express are celebrating the anniversary of a partnership that has raised more than $150 million for member children’s hospitals across the U.S. and Canada since 2007.  

Panda Cares®, the philanthropic arm of Panda Express, will commemorate the day by celebrating Panda Cares Day® on August 8, 2023. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals will receive 25% of net sales from online orders on that day via the Panda Express website and the Panda Express app with the code “PCD2023” at checkout*.  

“Corporate partners are the engine that has driven Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ success in raising more than $8.5 billion throughout our 40 years of dedication,” said Teri Nestel, president and CEO of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “Our 16-year partnership with Panda Express has allowed our member hospitals to provide holistic care for children, that addresses their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs, and advances our mission of changing kids’ lives to change the future.” 

“We’re thrilled to celebrate Panda Cares Day with our longtime partners Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and humbled to have the community come together to further our mission of inspiring better lives on this special day,” said Dr. Peggy Cherng, co-founder and co-CEO of Panda Restaurant Group. “Children are our future, and we hope that through this partnership and the Panda Cares Centers of Hope, we give children the strength to thrive and fulfill their highest possibilities.”

Panda Express guests are invited to donate all year round by rounding at the register, during checkout on online orders, or through in-store donation boxes. Additionally, honoring the company’s dedication to giving time and resources to their communities, Panda Express associates support Children Miracle Network Hospitals across the country and enthusiastically raised more than $507,600 in the latest campaign in March.  

Panda Cares donations through the years have led to the establishment of Panda Cares Centers of Hope (PCCOH) at many member Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals across the nation. These centers are special spaces, providing a safe and comforting environment where kids can have a variety of resources that empowers them with the joys of being a kid. Programs and services offered through the centers inspire hope and promote healing by addressing a child’s entire well-being, including their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. They help give patients and their families courage and strength, while serving as a haven for them to escape the stress of medical care and treatment.  

Panda Cares Centers of Hope programs are designed to address the following needs of children: 

Mental health and development: Quiet, comforting spaces that are dedicated to reading, learning and growing can give kids and families the ability to continue their curriculum or spend time together. These spaces can be found at some member hospitals, including a library at Children’s National in Washington, D.C. 

Emotional well-being: Wellness programs including art, pet and music therapy can reduce stress and build resilience and emotional strength for patients and families.  These PCCOH programs can be found at some member hospitals including a dedicated child life space for patients and siblings, like the one at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, TX.  

Physical development: Physical, occupational and recreational therapies can improve motor skills and advance recovery for patients and families. These PCCOH programs can be found at some member hospitals, including Children’s Health in Dallas, TX. 

Spiritual support: Pastoral care, meditation, and counseling services can provide additional support to patients and families. These PCCOH programs can be found at some member hospitals, including a spiritual care center at Children’s Hospital of Orange County in Orange, CA. 

“All of these programs address needs that are essential to a child’s full well-being and are largely supported by philanthropic funding,” said Nestel. “Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and our corporate partners like Panda Express are here to ensure that kids get all of the care they require to achieve their full potential.” 

For more information on Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, go to cmnhospitals.org. To learn more about the Panda Cares Center of Hope visit pandacares.org. 

*50% of pre-tax event sales will be donated equally to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and other charitable partners. Applicable for purchase on Pandaexpress.com or Panda Express Mobile App only on 8/8/23. Visit pandaex.press/PCD2023 for more details.

About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals: 
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals supporting the health of 12 million kids annually across the U.S. and Canada. Donations go to local hospitals to fund critical life-saving treatments and healthcare services, along with innovative research, vital pediatric medical equipment, child life services that put kids’ and families’ minds at ease during difficult hospital stays and financial assistance for families who could not otherwise afford these health services. When we improve the health of all children and allow them the opportunity to reach their full potential, we also improve our communities for years to come. Together, we can change kids’ health. Together, we can change the future. To learn about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and your local children’s hospital, visit cmnhospitals.org.  

About Panda Express®: 
On a mission to inspire better lives, Panda Express®, the largest Asian dining concept in the US. Family-owned and operated since 1983 by Co-Founders and Co-CEOs Andrew and Peggy Cherng, Panda Express is best known as a trailblazer for creating a wide variety of industry-first recipes, including its best seller The Original Orange Chicken® and award-winning Honey Walnut Shrimp, which have defined the category of authentic American Chinese cuisine. Each dish at Panda Express is thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients and inspired by bold Chinese flavors and culinary principles. The restaurant brand has more than 2,500 locations and has introduced American Chinese cuisine to 12 international countries.

Powered by a global family of associates, Panda Cares®, Panda’s philanthropic arm, has raised more than $329 million and has dedicated countless volunteer hours in bettering the health and education for over 15 million youth, as well as supporting communities in need since 1999. In 2021, Panda Express established the Panda CommUnity Fund — a five-year, $10 million community investment and response program that supports immediate and sustainable solutions from national and local organizations to uplift diverse groups, including people of color and other marginalized communities. For more information about Panda, visit PandaExpress.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contact

Kristen McCloy, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, 801.214.7400, [email protected]

SOURCE Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

Society: Christianity

Violet PR Receives NJBIZ ‘Empowering Women Award’ for Outstanding Commitment to Women’s Advancement in New Jersey

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Award recognizes companies and organizations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to supporting and elevating women in the workplace and the community

MONTCLAIR, N.J.,  Aug. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Violet PR, a leading boutique public relations agency headquartered in Montclair, N.J., is proud to announce that it has been honored with the prestigious NJBIZ Empowering Women Award. This award recognizes companies and organizations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to supporting and elevating women in the workplace and the community.

As a woman-owned business and certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and LGBT Business Enterprise, Violet PR’s commitment to women’s empowerment is one of its core values. Over 90 percent of the agency’s staff are women, and top leadership positions, including President April Mason and Vice President Christina Forrest, are held by accomplished women.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the NJBIZ Empowering Women Award,” said Mason. “Empowering women and promoting gender equality is not just a part of our business model; it’s at the heart of everything we do. We firmly believe in providing a supportive and inclusive environment for women to thrive and lead within our agency.”

Violet PR’s dedication to empowering women extends beyond its workforce. The agency has implemented initiatives to support women’s professional development, including a mentorship program.

“I am thrilled to accept this award on behalf of our entire team,” said Forrest. “Our commitment to uplifting women is not limited to our workplace; we leverage our media relations expertise to elevate the stories of accomplished women from diverse backgrounds, breaking barriers and fostering a more inclusive narrative.”

Additionally, Violet PR actively combats inequality through its involvement in community endeavors and philanthropic efforts. The agency volunteers with local nonprofits, supports LGBTQ+ rights advocacy and provides pro bono work for organizations serving individuals in need.

Violet PR has garnered numerous accolades, including the “Best Boutique Agency” award from PR News and Bulldog Reporter in 2022. In 2020, April Mason was recognized as an “ROI-NJ Influencer: Women in Business” and named to NJBIZ’s “Best 50 Women in Business” list.

Looking ahead, Violet PR remains committed to nurturing the growth of women in leadership roles within the agency. The company has identified talented women with the potential to become exceptional leaders and plans to provide personalized mentoring and strategic guidance to help them reach their full potential.

The award ceremony took place on August 1, 2023, at The DoubleTree by Hilton Somerset.

To learn more about Violet PR, visit: http://www.violetpr.com.

About Violet PR
Whether it’s rebranding a city, drawing attention to a revitalized neighborhood, or promoting a new sustainable development, Violet PR helps clients make a difference. Through a combination of news stories, social media and compelling content, our New Jersey-based boutique public relations firm helps clients attract more dollars and supporters. Follow Violet PR on Twitter @Violet__PR. For more information visit: http://www.violetpr.com.

Media Contact

Naamah Barbut, Violet PR, 2017100049, naamah@violetpr.com

SOURCE Violet PR



Society: Social Services

IICF Releases 2023 Inclusion Conference Key Takeaways Providing Actionable Insights on the Future of Work, Innovation and Leadership

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The Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) today released the 2023 IICF Inclusion in Insurance Global Conference Key Takeaways, a document sharing valuable learnings from sessions at this year’s IICF Global Conference.

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF), a unique nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities and enriching lives, today released the 2023 IICF Inclusion in Insurance Global Conference Key Takeaways, a document sharing valuable learnings from sessions at this year’s IICF Global Conference. As the industry seeks to advance ideas into action, this report provides actionable intelligence and insights centered around several major themes including leadership and innovation, building a culture of inclusion and belonging, talent and the future of work and mental health and wellness.

Takeaways include steps industry professionals can take to better position the industry for the future. Speakers noted how building a culture of inclusion brings a broader range of perspectives to the table, leading to more inclusive and innovative products and services as well as a greater sense of belonging.

They also discussed how prioritizing mental health and wellness is critical to building better employee culture. An emphasis on wellness will provide team members with the time and space to practice self-care which improves team resilience in the long run.

“The energy and camaraderie at this year’s conference was palpable and we continue to see such positive benefits of IICF convening the industry on topics that help to move our industry forward, and positively impact on the entire insurance industry,” said Bill Ross, CEO of IICF. “We’re proud to provide the industry with this comprehensive list of takeaways outlining actionable steps to build a more inclusive and innovative workplace.”        

Additional insights include:

  • Educating, training and facilitating discussions will be key to meeting the opportunities and challenges of sustainability as an economic driver.
  • The insurance industry must maintain a focus on the human element of relationship building as technology continues to advance.
  • Emphasizing a culture of allyship can inspire a greater sense of belonging in the workplace and foster broader collaboration and opportunities for innovation.

For the full 2023 IICF Global Conference report, please visit: https://online.fliphtml5.com/shttp://www.aqgb/#p=1

Next year, IICF will host the 2024 IICF Inclusion in Insurance Forums in Chicago, Dallas, London, Los Angeles and New York while marking the foundation’s 30th anniversary. Registration and additional details will be available later this year at https://inclusion.iicf.org/.

About the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF)
The Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) is a unique nonprofit that unites the collective strengths of the insurance industry to help communities and enrich lives through grants, volunteer service and leadership. Established in 1994, IICF has served as the philanthropic foundation of the insurance industry for nearly thirty years, contributing more than $45 million in community grants along with 320,000 volunteer hours by over 115,000 industry professionals. IICF reinvests locally where funds are raised, serving hundreds of charities and nonprofit organizations, for maximum community impact. IICF is a registered nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. Learn more at http://www.iicf.org or follow us on social media @doubleicf

Media Contact

Alisa Breese, IICF Communications, (949) 412-2143, abreese@iicf.com

SOURCE IICF Communications

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

TruBlue Home Service Ally, the Handyman & Home Maintenance Franchise Catering to Busy Adults and Seniors, Announces Latest Signing in Happy Valley

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As a franchise focusing not only on traditional handyman services, but also home maintenance and senior modification services both in and outside the home, TruBlue is making significant strides towards reaching its goal of 200 units by 2025.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa., Aug. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — TruBlue Home Service Ally, the franchise that provides handyman, home maintenance and senior modification services for busy adults and seniors, has announced the signing of a new location in Centre County of Pennsylvania. With an understanding that aging in place starts in the home, TruBlue is emerging as a leader in the booming handyman and senior home modification services industries.

“We are thrilled to bring TruBlue to the Centre County area as we continue to expand our footprint rapidly across the country,” said TruBlue President Sean Fitzgerald. “As a country, we are experiencing a significant surge in the senior population, with the majority of these seniors aiming to remain in their homes for as long as possible. With that comes a pressing need in the senior home services industry. . Almost no one is offering home assessment, modifications and maintenance programs for seniors, despite the staggering demand. We’re virtually alone in this segment, and we’ve seen tremendous growth as a result.”

Rich Robert, the franchise owner and local resident behind this upcoming TruBlue location in Centre County, says they are equally excited about the opportunity.

After exploring several handyman concepts, Rich found a perfect fit with TruBlue. The brand’s commitment to top-tier customer service and quality work echoed his own values, and their focus on cultivating trustworthy relationships with clients resonated with his vision. An added bonus was the brand’s emphasis on family, ensuring that Rich, a family man himself, wasn’t just another faceless franchisee.

A study conducted by the University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation revealed that 88% of adults aged 50-80 highly value the ability to stay in their homes as long as possible. TruBlue assists seniors with home modifications and maintenance, both inside and out, so they can stay in their homes longer. Services encompass a wide variety of home modifications for safety and convenience ranging from installing grab bars, ramps and new lighting to updating door handles and modifying bathtubs for easy access.

TruBlue’s highly sought-after Home Ally VIP subscription service guarantees monthly visits from a handyman to handle home maintenance tasks such as filter replacement, hose line shutdowns and other to-do list items like storing patio furniture, changing batteries and lightbulbs, fixing holes in walls or repairing leaky faucets. TruBlue is dedicated to ensuring seniors avoid potentially dangerous situations when trying to maintain their homes, , like climbing ladders.

“Just like it’s important to maintain your car, it is equally as important to maintain your home, typically our customer’s most valuable asset,” said Fitzgerald. “For busy adults and seniors, it can be hard to keep up with the demands of their homes. With various customizable, subscription-based services, customers can select a TruBlue home maintenance service package that fits the specific needs of their home and family, so they can enjoy hassle-free living.”

With affordable startup costs between $65,000 and $91,000, TruBlue franchise owners can take advantage of the efficient operational model to offer their community three sought-after services: general handyman assistance, home assessment and maintenance, and senior modifications for aging in place. This versatility also makes TruBlue an attractive addition for entrepreneurs already involved in the home services industry.

“We are a high-margin, low overhead business,” said Fitzgerald. “When you have a low cost of operations monthly, with high demand and high margins, that’s a great formula for success. Every location is fully scalable — there’s no limit to the amount of in-home services a franchise owner can provide, so you don’t have to open a second location in order to grow.”

Now, as awareness around aging in place continues to increase, TruBlue intends to keep the momentum going as it makes major gains toward its goal of over 200 units by 2025. The brand was recently ranked on Entrepreneur’s Fastest Growing Franchises list at No.127 and was also featured at No. 491 on the publication’s Franchise 500 ranking earlier this year.

“The senior population is increasingly in need of our trustworthy home services, which is why TruBlue has been expanding rapidly over the past few years,” said Fitzgerald. “We are looking for qualified, passionate and community-driven professionals to help us expand our footprint and establish ourselves as the leading provider of handyman and home modification & maintenance services for busy adults and seniors.”

TruBlue is actively seeking new franchise owners in markets across the country and has identified Orlando, Miami, Jacksonville and Naples, Florida, as well as Houston and Dallas, Texas, as key development markets.

To learn more about franchising with TruBlue, please visit http://trubluefranchise.com/

About TruBlue Home Service Ally:
TruBlue Home Service Ally® provides a unique and affordable approach to helping busy adults and seniors live a worry-free life by offering trustworthy handyman and home maintenance services. Helping you maintain your home both inside and out, TruBlue’s services include: handyman projects and to-do list chores, preventative home maintenance, seasonal work, and senior modification services, all handled by a professional, bonded and insured TruPro Technician. TruBlue franchise owners are required to complete the Certified Aging In Place program through CAPS and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). As certified specialists, TruBlue franchisees are able to perform Certified Aging in Place Home Safety Assessments and can make recommended safety modifications as needed.

Media Contact

Jasmine Lee, Mainland, 312-526-3996, jlee@hellomainland.com

SOURCE TruBlue Home Service Ally

Society: Christianity

The Hispanic Wealth Project Partners with Airbnb to Encourage More Hispanics to Host on Airbnb

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Through Airbnb’s Entrepreneurship Academy, attendees can learn the basics of how to become a Host: “Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy: Intro to Hosting” to be held virtually on August 24

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Hispanic Wealth Project™ (HWP) today announced it has partnered with Airbnb to encourage more Hispanics to learn about the economic benefits of hosting your home. Through a series of webinars, participants will have an opportunity to learn more about the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy which introduces diverse communities to hosting on Airbnb in partnership with local organizations and gives participants information, practical tools, and support to help them become entrepreneurs by turning their spare room or property into a source of extra money.

The webinar will be held on Thursday, August 24 at 12 p.m. PT/3 p.m. ET as part of HWP’s Women Building Wealth Webinar series, which is aimed at providing Latinas with insights on how to be financially successful.

“We are so excited to announce this partnership with Airbnb, and know that the information provided in the first webinar, as well as future events, is of great importance to our audience,” said Sara Rodriguez, Hispanic Wealth Project Chairperson. “Becoming a Host on Airbnb is a great way to earn extra money and is becoming increasingly popular across the country as people look for more ways to earn supplemental income.”

During the webinar, attendees will hear from Superhost Ambassador Dolly Duran in Florida and distinguished Host Tina Marie Hernandez in California on tips and tricks for hosting on Airbnb.

Those interested in learning more about becoming a Host on Airbnb and earning additional income can register at https://bit.ly/hwp-wbw.

Future events and activities presented as part of HWP’s partnership with Airbnb will continue to explore various topics and themes, including building wealth through homeownership and entrepreneurship opportunities for Latinos to promote economic prosperity.

For questions, please contact HWP Program Manager, Melissa Cossio, at [email protected].

About The Hispanic Wealth Project (HWP)
The Hispanic Wealth Project is a non-profit 501c3 whose mission is to empower the Hispanic community in America through education and programmatic efforts around diversified wealth building, small business sustainability, and wealth creation through real estate.

About Airbnb
Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed 1.4 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

Press Contact: [email protected]

Media Contact

Nikki Gum, Hispanic Wealth Project, (619) 719-4834, [email protected]

SOURCE Hispanic Wealth Project

Society: Social Services

Harris Teeter and Titan Farms donate 37,800 pounds of fresh peaches to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina

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This is the 10th year Harris Teeter and Titan Farms have partnered for the Peaches with a Purpose campaign

MATTHEWS, N.C., Aug. 11, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Harris Teeter and Titan Farms donated 37,800 pounds of fresh peaches to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina (SHFBM) through the companies’ Peaches with a Purpose campaign.

When shoppers bought a peach between July 26 and August 8 at a North Carolina Harris Teeter location, Titan Farms donated a percentage of that sale to SHFBM in the form of fresh peaches.

Titan Farms, the largest peach grower on the east coast, created Peaches with a Purpose to help feed the under-served while bringing attention to the problem of food-insecurity. Through the partnership between Titan Farms and Harris Teeter, the two companies donated more than 380,000 pounds of peaches over the last ten years.

“We want to thank Titan Farms for supporting local hunger relief efforts and for allowing us to consistently be a part of this program,” said Danna Robinson, director of corporate affairs for Harris Teeter. “Fresh produce is scarce in food banks across the country, and we are happy to be able to contribute nutritious items to those in need.”

The peach donation will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, which serves a total of 24 counties in North Carolina and South Carolina. In the SHFBM service area, more than 489,000 people live in poverty including 159,000 children and 52,000 seniors.

“I am eternally grateful for 10 years of continuous support through Peaches with a Purpose from Harris Teeter and its loyal customers,” said Lori Anne Carr, vice president of Titan Farms. “Fresh produce is often in short supply in food banks, through this partnership, we have been able to provide fresh, nutritious peaches to local N.C. communities for an entire decade. In collaboration with Harris Teeter, Titan Farms serves as a valuable means to address the scarcity of fresh produce in food banks. This partnership demonstrates a commitment to helping families and individuals access essential resources.”

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About Harris Teeter
For more than 60 years, Harris Teeter, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), has enriched lives – one meal, one family, one associate, and one community at a time. Headquartered in Matthews, North Carolina, Harris Teeter employs 36,000 valued associates across more than 250 stores and 60 fuel centers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Maryland, Delaware, Florida, and the District of Columbia.

About Titan Farms
Founded in 1999 by Chalmers and Lori Anne Carr, Titan Farms is a premier grower, packer and shipper of fresh peaches and vegetables. With core values focused on producing the highest quality produce in the market, you are sure to take home the freshest produce they have available. Today, Titan Farms is the largest peach grower on the east coast, with over 6,200 acres of peaches, 600 acres of bell peppers, 1,000 acres of broccoli and 36 acres of eggplant. Titan Farms is a family-run operation, including long-time employees who have become part of their Titan family.

About Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina
As part of Feeding America, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina – serves 24 counties in North and South Carolina. In FY 2021-2022, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina distributed over 75 million pounds of food and household items to over 950 hunger feeding agencies including emergency pantries, soup kitchens, senior programs, shelters and low-income daycares.

Media Contact

Paige Pauroso, Harris Teeter, 704-844-3101, ppauroso@harristeeter.com

SOURCE Harris Teeter

Society: Disabled Issues / Disabilities

Viewpoint and MOKA Unite to Create Inspirational Episode on Improving Communities through Care and Compassion

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The educational program and organization will be creating documentary content for distribution this year…

MIAMI, Aug. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Viewpoint, the acclaimed television show hosted by the renowned actor Dennis Quaid, recently announced a partnership with MOKA, a visionary organization dedicated to empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Together, they are set to produce a special episode that sheds light on the transformative impact of care and compassion in improving communities and empowering those with disabilities.

Scheduled for production later this year, the upcoming episode of Viewpoint will highlight MOKA’s exceptional work in fostering positive change within communities. The show will explore how MOKA’s innovative approach is making a profound difference, touching the lives of people with disabilities and bringing a positive ripple effect on the entire community.

MOKA has long been at the forefront of advocating for inclusivity and equality, enabling people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling and independent lives. By partnering with Viewpoint, MOKA aims to reach a broader audience and inspire people, communities, and organizations to join hands in creating a more caring and compassionate society for all.

“Creating inclusive communities is beneficial for both people with disabilities as well as the community around them,” stated MOKA Executive Director Tracey Hamlet. “We are excited to have this unique opportunity to share why our mission is so important and how much potential for growth and prosperity there is when communities commit to inclusion. Too often these stories don’t get told and we are grateful Viewpoint is providing an avenue for this imperative message.”

The upcoming episode will feature personal stories, testimonials, and real-life examples of how MOKA’s innovative programs and initiatives are fostering independence, breaking barriers, and empowering people to achieve their fullest potential. Additionally, the episode will underscore the importance of embracing diversity and promoting understanding, leading to a stronger and more unified society.

About Viewpoint:

Viewpoint is an esteemed television show hosted by renowned actor Dennis Quaid that covers a diverse range of topics, from social issues to inspiring stories of human resilience. The show aims to enlighten viewers and promote meaningful conversations that spark positive change in society.

About MOKA:

MOKA is a pioneering organization committed to empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Through innovative programs and unwavering support, MOKA fosters independence, inclusion, and personal growth for those they serve, while simultaneously creating a more compassionate and accepting community. For more information visit: http://www.moka.org

Media Contact

Development Division, Viewpoint with host Dennis Quaid, 561-244-7620, info@viewpointproject.com

SOURCE Viewpoint with host Dennis Quaid

Society: Christianity

Joellen Saddock announces the release of ‘Christian Awakening’

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New spirituality book explores the deeper meanings of the Holy Bible and the joy of achieving an “I AM” state of consciousness

POWHATAN, Va., Aug. 11, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Upon reading the Bible, Joellen Saddock discovered that it did not say what she had been taught, but rather offered coded stories designed to teach the reader how to achieve ascension and oneness. Her goal, in writing this book, is to reveal “the mystery that has been kept hidden” by the early infiltration of churches (Colossians 1:26). She hopes that by presenting a new, and more empowering, interpretation that more people will wake up to their divine nature and expand the love and light available on the earth plane.

In “Christian Awakening” (published by Balboa Press), Saddock narrates a coming-of-age story about the way she discovered answers to all her tough religious questions. She leaves no stone unturned as she asks hard questions like: How can God be both punishing and forgiving? How can a loving God—whom Jesus said is better than earth parents — condemn His children to an eternity of torture? And why would an omniscient God need his people to prove their loyalty through human sacrifice? She brings logic, deductive reasoning, and hope back into religion as she reconfigures the ancient scriptures to paint an entirely different picture about God. Her personal accounts demonstrate how God’s law is actively working in everyone’s lives to teach and improve everyone. More than anything, her story is about man’s latent mountain-moving potential that has, until now, been obscured by religious hypocrites.

This book explores the deeper meanings of the Holy Bible, how it parallels other religions, and shares the message of a loving unity between all of God’s people. Saddock prods the reader to set aside the idea that man begins and ends in the confines of his own skin and suggests a broader perspective of what it means that men—of all religious backgrounds—are given “one spirit to drink” (1 Corinthians 12:13).

Through an intense scrutinization of many different translations, interwoven between riveting personal experiences, a new message of religious tolerance emerges. Offering a fascinating perspective on Christ’s death, Saddock leaves the readers at the crossroads of the divine, suggesting that the time has come to take each other by the hand and greet the dawn of “a new earth in which righteousness dwells” together as one united people. (2 Peter 3:13).

“As more and more people are becoming disillusioned with the idea of an angry, punishing God, this book shatters and rebuilds that concept using the actual Bible to do it,” Saddock says. When asked what she wants readers to take away from the book, she answers, “That they can live a life of tremendous joy, and that they feel empowered to create whatever they want out of life.” For more details about the book, please visit https://www.balboapress.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/837535-christian-awakening

“Christian Awakening”
By Joellen Saddock
Hardcover | 6 x 9in | 300 pages | ISBN 9798765227176
Softcover | 6 x 9in | 300 pages | ISBN 9798765227152
E-Book | 300 pages | ISBN 9798765227169
Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble
About the Author
Joellen Saddock resides in Virginia with her husband and four children. Although raised in a Christian household, she often found herself on the outside of religion looking in. Her story is a coming-of-age story about the way she discovered the answers to her tough religious questions. More than anything, her story exemplifies how God’s law works to multiply one’s desires and create a life of possibilities.

Balboa Press, a division of Hay House, Inc. – a leading provider in publishing products that specialize in self-help and the mind, body, and spirit genres. Through an alliance with the worldwide self-publishing leader Author Solutions, LLC, authors benefit from the leadership of Hay House Publishing and the speed-to-market advantages of the self-publishing model. For more information, visit balboapress.com. To start publishing your book with Balboa Press, call 844-682-1282 today.

Media Contact

Marketing Services, BalboaPress, 844-682-1282, pressreleases@balboapress.com

SOURCE Joellen Saddock