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Minneapolis – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, continues to maintain its financial strength and stability, as recognized in three recent rating reports by independent agencies.

S&P Global Ratings affirmed its AA+ (Very Strong) long-term issuer credit and financial strength rating on Thrivent and gave the organization a Stable outlook. The rating, which is the second highest of the agency’s 20 rating categories, highlights Thrivent’s distribution force, better-than-peer persistency ratio, strong competitive position and excellent capital adequacy as key strengths.
Moody’s Ratings affirmed Thrivent’s Aa2 (Excellent) rating and stable outlook, the third highest of the agency’s 21 rating categories. Moody’s cited Thrivent’s excellent financial profile, which is supported by strong capitalization, good financial flexibility and stable cash flow from its in-force life insurance and annuity businesses. The agency also recognized Thrivent’s commitment to serving its members, good corporate governance and disciplined risk management.
AM Best affirmed Thrivent’s A++ (Superior) rating and stable outlook, the highest of the agency’s 13 rating categories. The agency recognized Thrivent for continuing to maintain its balance sheet strength and stability, strong operating performance, favorable business profile, and very strong enterprise risk management. They also noted Thrivent’s high-quality statutory capital structure, diversified product portfolio, and continued efforts to grow as positive factors.
“These ratings are indicative of the strategic and thoughtful way we run our business, and they represent our dedication to putting our clients first in everything we do,” said David Royal, chief financial and investment officer at Thrivent.

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.4 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $179 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/23). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Ratings; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance products issued by Thrivent. Not available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., a registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC, and a subsidiary of Thrivent. Licensed agent/producer of Thrivent. Registered representative of Thrivent Investment Management, Inc. Advisory services available through investment adviser representatives only. Thrivent.com/disclosures.

When earthquakes devasted southeast Turkey last year, Didem Esmer turned the greenhouse where she nurtured her pepper seedlings into a safe haven for her Samandağ community. “This greenhouse became our home after the disaster. Everyone had lost their homes,” she explains.

While she helped her community rebuild, Didem needed support of her own. The market in Hatay shut down, leaving no place to sell her harvest. And she saw little future for her family farm without resources to continue growing in the region. “Honestly, we thought we couldn’t overcome most of the challenges. So, I wasn’t considering returning to production,” Didem says.

A partnership with the PepsiCo Foundation and Anadolu Meraları created alternative channels to the earthquake-damaged supply chains in the region. By working with local cooperative Samandağ Agricultural Development Cooperative they found ways to establish new relationships between growers and buyers. Building partnerships like these are critical ways PepsiCo Foundation aims to increase equitable access to nutritious food, safe water, and economic opportunity in the communities PepsiCo serves.

“By directly engaging our associates, partners and changemakers within our communities, we can drive local, leading and lasting social impacts globally,” President of the PepsiCo Foundation and Global Head of Social Impact, C.D. Glin says.

As the PepsiCo Foundation continues to work toward their pep+ ambitions, the latest Global Impact Report highlights their progress and the importance of driving social impact at the intersection of people and planet. Learn more about the stories of social impact like Diadem’s and the ways the PepsiCo Foundation continues working to help local communities thrive.

Reached more than 450k female farmers and community members
In addition to bolstering supply chains after the Turkey earthquake, the PepsiCo Foundation partnered with Anadolu Meraları to develop regenerative agriculture practices in rural Turkey through a demonstration farm, training modules and resources provided to local farmers. As part of the PepsiCo Foundation’s focus on supporting female farmers, Didem received thousands of seedlings, pest traps and fertilizer to revive her pepper crop. She also participated in training sessions to manage the significant pest problem in the region — which was impacting crop quality — and training on composting and soil restoration techniques to address the damage caused by the earthquake. “These supports hold immense significance for me,” Diadem says. “In the initial stages, costs are critical, and it’s challenging for producers to bear them. This support will greatly benefit me, instilling confidence in producing a high-quality product.”

Delivered more than 16 million meals to 371k people
During the school year, thousands of students across the U.S. depend on free or reduced-price meals. But once the school year ends, so does that support. To bridge that gap and the address the issues of food insecurity facing local communities, the PepsiCo Foundation’s Food For Good program seeks local partners like No Kid Hungry Virginia and Accomack County Public Schools to launch home-delivery summer meal programs. “Delivering meals directly to kids means less youth experiencing hunger this summer and more students prepared to learn when the school year starts,” says Sarah Steely, Director of No Kid Hungry Virginia.

Helped more than 10 million people access safe water
Each year, the PepsiCo Foundation works to bring safe water access to millions of people across the world in water-risk communities. With the support of the PepsiCo Foundation and WaterAid, Olajumoke Okedara was among 20 people to attend a training workshop aimed at improving access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene services in her local community in Lagos State, Nigeria. “Health is wealth. And access to water, decent toilets and good hygiene is the key to healthy living,” Olajumoke says. “I play my part in improving access to these basic services by maintaining the facilities provided in the community.”

Granted 845 scholarships to underserved students
The PepsiCo Foundation’s Community College Program supports underserved populations by offering scholarships, aiming to assist over 4,000 students in obtaining professional certifications and degrees. Pamela Morales, a recipient of the S.M.I.L.E. scholarship for community college graduates transitioning to four-year institutions, pursued her education in Digital Marketing at Baruch College. “The PepsiCo Foundation’s S.M.I.L.E. scholarship has opened doors for me that I never thought I would be able to get through as a first-generation student,” Pamela says. Following her graduation, Pamela will join PepsiCo full time as a Sales Management Associate.

Supported 1,000 small businesses in the U.S. in 2023
When Joshua Archuletta and his wife Fabby were looking for some help to grow their business, El Roi Café, in downtown Albuquerque, New Mexico, they sought support from the PepsiCo Foundation’s Impacto Business Accelerator. The program helped provide essential funding and coaching when the pandemic unexpectedly slowed their business. “Thank goodness we found it and applied. We needed to pay rent, utilities, and inventory and this helped us catch up,” Joshua says. “It was the bridge to get us to the next step in opening our business. Without it, we wouldn’t be open right now.”

MINNEAPOLIS — A new Thrivent survey reveals over half of widowed women experienced financial challenges after their spouse’s passing, with 51% either living paycheck to paycheck or struggling to manage their bills. A lack of proactive financial planning could be to blame: 41% of the widowed women surveyed said they didn’t have any financial conversations or plans in place prior to their spouse passing away.

“Losing a spouse is one of the hardest things anyone can experience,” said Teresa Powell, Thrivent financial advisor. “Immediately after this terrible loss, many widowed women face a tremendous financial burden without a solid plan in place. While nothing can protect against the heartache of losing a spouse, creating a financial plan with your spouse ahead of time is one of the greatest acts of love you can do for one another.”

Other key findings from Thrivent’s survey underscore why financial preparation is crucial for married couples:

Lack of preparation: A majority of widowed women (60%) reported the loss of their spouse as unexpected. Yet only 29% of all widowed women created a will with their spouse while they were together, 6% regularly met with a financial advisor and 5% had developed a written financial strategy.
Debt dilemma: Debt is one of the top financial challenges facing widowed women. Thirty-nine percent carried over $25,000 in debt immediately following the loss of their spouse, including 10% having over $100,000. Additionally, 71% said losing their spouse made paying off debt moderately or much more difficult, reinforcing how much they may have relied on their spouse for financial support.
Financial uncertainty: Less than half (48%) of widowed women felt prepared to manage their finances after the death of their spouse. Their primary concerns included becoming the sole financial decision-maker or paying monthly bills on time (70%). Many also struggled with budgeting on a reduced household income (44%), managing and paying debt (37%), and continuing to save for retirement on one income (21%).
Immediate financial changes: A majority of widowed women (68%) made immediate changes to their financial activity. Among the most common, 35% of widowed women had to reduce or stop spending on non-essential items or activities, 14% had to pull money from retirement savings to cover expenses, and 11% reduced or stopped contributing to savings.
These findings point to a need for proactive financial planning. A financial advisor can be an important partner in planning for the unexpected and supporting widowed women as they address their immediate financial needs after the death of a spouse.

Here are tips from Thrivent on navigating finances before and after the loss of a spouse:

Start financial conversations early – Couples should openly discuss their financial goals, financial plans and end of life wishes with each other. They should also share their financial documents, records and passwords with their spouse. By taking a proactive approach, surviving spouses will have the information and clarity they need to make smart financial decisions following their loss.
Adopt a change mindset – While people are commonly encouraged not to make major life decisions shortly after losing their spouse, financial changes may be unavoidable. Recognizing this impact and making strategic and thoughtful decisions, with the support of a financial advisor, can help the surviving spouse safeguard their finances now and into the future. Embracing a change mindset can be empowering for widowed women as they navigate their next chapter.
Map out what’s next – After losing a spouse, widowed women often encounter new financial challenges, from how to budget and save on a single income to understanding their new tax filing status and Social Security survivor benefits. A financial advisor can help them map out key financial decisions in the short and long-term and offer tailored advice that meets their needs.
Plan with the right team – Industry research shows an estimated 70% of women leave their financial advisor within the first year of their spouse’s death.1 This underscores the need for couples to work together now to build an experienced team that aligns with their values and helps them navigate complex financial decisions. Ideally, the team should include a financial advisor at the center, with support from an attorney and CPA to advise on legal and tax questions. This helps ensure the surviving spouse is well-positioned to accomplish their future goals.
Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted in May 2024, among a national sample of 422 Female Widows. The aim was to understand the financial preparedness and challenges faced by widows. The interviews were conducted online, and the data were weighted to approximate a target sample of adults in the United States based on gender, education, age, race, and region. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 5 percentage points.

1The Future of Wealth is Female: Working with Female Clients Through Their Various Life Journeys

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $179 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/23). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Insurance products, securities and investment advisory services are provided by appropriately appointed and licensed financial advisors and professionals. Only individuals who are financial advisors are credentialed to provide investment advisory services. Visit Thrivent.com or FINRA’s BrokerCheck for more information about Thrivent’s financial advisors. 

Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional.

Thrivent provides advice and guidance through its Financial Planning Framework that generally includes a review and analysis of a client’s financial situation. A client may choose to further their planning engagement with Thrivent through its Dedicated Planning Services (an investment advisory service) that results in written recommendations for a fee.

About Morning Consult 
Morning Consult is a global decision intelligence company changing how modern leaders make smarter, faster, better decisions. The company pairs its proprietary high-frequency data with applied artificial intelligence to better inform decisions on what people think and how they will act. For more information, please visit morningconsult.com. 

MINNEAPOLIS, May 20, 2024 – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, has been honored with a Silver Stevie® Award in the Large Financial Services Companies category in the Annual American Business Awards®. This esteemed recognition underscores Thrivent’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership in the financial services industry.

Thrivent’s financial strength and stability and commitment to providing innovative products to clients was noted during the judging process. In 2023, Thrivent launched a Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity, a solution designed to help clients achieve their long-term financial goals through guaranteed returns. Judges also cited Thrivent’s distinction of being one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for 13 years in a row and its milestone of raising $1 billion for communities nationwide through one million client-led volunteer teams.

The American Business Awards, also known as the Stevie Awards, are among the nation’s premier business awards programs, recognizing outstanding achievements in various categories across the business spectrum. More than 300 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Stevie Award winners.

Details about The American Business Awards and the list of 2024 Stevie winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/ABA.

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $179 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/23). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About the Stevie Awards
Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, and the new Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com.

MINNEAPOLIS — Now in its third year, Thrivent’s 2024 Boomerang Kids Survey reveals nearly half the parents surveyed (46%) have had their adult children “boomerang” back home to live with them at some point. Fifty percent of them blame the rising cost of rent and housing. That’s a big jump from just 35% who said the same last year.

“This is a wakeup call that’s gone unanswered,” says Chaz Black, Thrivent financial advisor. “More young adults returning home underscores the enormous – and growing – financial pressures they’re facing after graduation. The ripple effect it has on them and their parents is a problem we can’t afford to ignore.”

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Latest survey from Thrivent finds the trend of young adults moving home with their parents – also known as the Boomerang phenomenon – keeps rising.

Other data shows the breadth of consequences – from delaying milestones to jeopardizing their financial futures:

Drowning in debt: Many young adults are delaying financial priorities because of student loan debt, like buying a home (39%), saving for retirement (34%) or building emergency savings (36%). Additionally, 28% of young adults with student loans say they’re currently living paycheck to paycheck, and only 22% say their first job helped them pay down their debt.

Parents feel the pinch: With adult children living at home, parents deprioritize their own financial needs. For example, 38% say they are struggling to pay off debt (up from 23% from last year) and 37% find it harder to save for long-term goals like retirement or housing, a considerable jump from 16% last year.

Not making the grade: Among parents who have an adult child currently living with them, more than half don’t feel confident their child is ready to be financially independent: 55% would give their kid a C grade or lower on financial readiness and 11% would give an F.

One solution could be more education before taking on debt. An overwhelming majority of both parents and young adults surveyed (83%) believe high schools should teach a mandatory ‘financial aid 101’ course.
Thrivent’s survey data points to the importance of having a financial plan. Without one, it’s hard for parents to know how much they can afford to help their child. A financial advisor can help parents create a plan that looks at everything they earn and spend. This way, they can see how helping their child now might affect their ability to save for things like retirement or healthcare in the future.

Here are additional tips from Thrivent to help parents navigate the situation and get on track financially:

Set clear rules and stick to them – Parents should make sure their child knows the limits to their support. They can do this by having an honest conversation and developing a written plan that covers: 1) how long they’ll provide financial support, 2) what the money should be used for, 3) who pays for what, and 4) how their child will prove they’re making progress financially.

Teach good money habits – While their child is at home, parents can teach them how to budget and manage money wisely, set achievable financial goals, build an emergency savings fund and borrow money responsibly. These evergreen financial lessons can set the stage for long-term independence.

Be a role model – Leading by example is a powerful way for parents to teach their children about managing money. Parents should involve their children in financial planning conversations and explain the ‘why’ behind their decisions. This will help their kids do the same once they start handling their own finances.
Survey Methodology
This poll was conducted in April 2024 among a national sample of 2,201 Adults. The aim of this research was to track consumers’ sentiment and experiences with student loans and, for those who are 40-65 years old with children 18-35, understanding if and how having their adult children move back home and/or needing financial assistance impacted them. The interviews were conducted online and the data were weighted to approximate a target sample of Adults in the United States based on gender, education, age, race, and region. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points.

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $179 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/23). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Insurance products, securities and investment advisory services are provided by appropriately appointed and licensed financial advisors and professionals. Only individuals who are financial advisors are credentialed to provide investment advisory services. Visit Thrivent.com or FINRA’s BrokerCheck for more information about Thrivent’s financial advisors. 

About Morning Consult 
Morning Consult is a global decision intelligence company changing how modern leaders make smarter, faster, better decisions. The company pairs its proprietary high-frequency data with applied artificial intelligence to better inform decisions on what people think and how they will act. For more information, please visit morningconsult.com. 

MINNEAPOLIS, – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, now offers private equity as an asset class within its Asset Allocation Funds/Portfolios, bringing retail investors access to private equity funds for as little as $50 per month1. It’s one of the few major financial services firms to offer private equity exposure in a daily valued mutual fund.

“We believe this enhancement to our asset allocation funds is a way to deliver deeper value to clients and differentiates us from others in the industry,” says David Royal, executive vice president and chief financial & investment officer at Thrivent.

This innovation represents the company’s continued commitment to putting clients first and finding ways to deliver value through advice and solutions. The enhancement provides:

Exposure to an asset class that has historically been available only to high-net worth or institutional investors.  
An opportunity for greater diversification across hundreds of private companies, which allows clients to manage investment risk in a variety of market environments and economic cycles.  
The potential for enhanced performance benefits over time. Private equity generally has outperformed public equity markets, including most of the rolling 10-year time periods over the past 20 years.2
Through exposure to private equity, Thrivent helps clients access the upside of this asset class while adding diversification to the overall fund in a way that matches their risk tolerance. Allocations to private equity will initially be small and limited to target allocations within the funds and portfolios. Therefore, the initial impact on performance may be minimal. Thrivent believes further diversifying the asset allocation fund/portfolio holdings will enhance performance and help clients reach their financial goals.

“Our Private Investments team has deep experience in managing private equity investments,” says Jen Wilson, senior managing director of Private Investments at Thrivent. “We are honored to bring our experience in private equity to the funds as we strive to deliver investment returns that ultimately help clients live purposeful lives and achieve their goals.”

To learn more about the asset allocation funds, visit ThriventFunds.com (ThriventFunds.com/assetallocation).

1 New accounts with a minimum investment amount of $50 are offered through the Thrivent Mutual Funds “automatic Investment plan.” Otherwise, the minimum initial investment requirement is $2,000 for non-retirement accounts and $1,000 for IRA or tax-deferred accounts, minimum subsequent investment requirement is $50 for all account types. Account minimums for other options vary.

2 Source: Hamilton Lane Data via Cobalt, Bloomberg—January 2023.

About Thrivent 
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $179 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/23). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Minneapolis – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, was honored today as a LSEG Lipper Fund Awards US 2024 Winner for its Small Cap Stock Fund – Class S (TSCSX) over the 10-year performance period. Thrivent Asset Management, LLC is the investment adviser to the fund.

Thrivent Small Cap Stock Fund was recognized as the Best Small-Cap Core Fund out of 612 funds for its consistently strong risk-adjusted 10-year performance for the period ending November 30, 2023.

“Once again, we are honored that our Thrivent Small Cap Stock Fund has been recognized as a LSEG Lipper Fund Awards Winner this year for the 10-year performance period,” said David Royal, chief financial and investment officer at Thrivent. “This award reflects our commitment to diligently managing our funds over the long-term in order to generate competitive investment returns for our clients so they can fulfill their goals in life.”

This award marks the fourth time the Thrivent Small Cap Stock Fund has been recognized by the Lipper Fund Awards. Thrivent’s overall asset management team has received a total of 32 Lipper Fund Awards since 2008.

“Our investment team maintains a rigorous investment process, which adds value through bottom-up stock selection using proprietary research and by controlling risk,” said Jim Tinucci, senior portfolio manager of Thrivent Small Cap Stock Fund. “We’re grateful for this recognition because it validates our approach and how we’ve delivered consistent, repeatable performance on behalf of our clients.”

Thrivent’s asset management team consists of more than 140 investment professionals. The funds are offered online at thriventfunds.com, as well as through Thrivent’s financial advisors and other investment professionals around the country.

About LSEG Lipper Fund Awards
The LSEG Lipper Fund Awards, granted annually, highlight funds and fund companies that have excelled in delivering consistently strong risk-adjusted performance relative to their peers. The LSEG Lipper Fund Awards are based on the Lipper Leader for Consistent Return rating, which is a risk-adjusted performance measure calculated over 36, 60 and 120 months. The fund with the highest Lipper Leader for Consistent Return (Effective Return) value in each eligible classification wins the LSEG Lipper Fund Award. For more information, see lipperfundawards.com. Although LSEG Lipper makes reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained herein, the accuracy is not guaranteed by LSEG Lipper.

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $179 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/23). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

MINNEAPOLIS – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 financial services organization, has received the 2024 World’s Most Ethical Companies honor from Ethisphere, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices.

Thrivent has now been recognized for 13 consecutive years and is one of only six honorees in the financial services industry this year. In 2024, 136 honorees were recognized spanning 20 countries and 44 industries.

“Being recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies highlights Thrivent’s commitment to business ethics and integrity,” said Terry Rasmussen, president and CEO of Thrivent. “Our clients, financial advisors and workforce put their trust in Thrivent because of our ethical culture and it’s one of the reasons we’re able to deliver strong results that help people lead lives of service and faith.”

It’s always inspiring to recognize the World’s Most Ethical Companies®. Through the rigorous review process, we see the dedication of these organizations to continually improving their ethics, compliance, and governance practices to the benefit of all stakeholders,” said Erica Salmon Byrne, Ethisphere’s Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chair. “Companies that elevate best-in-class cultures of ethics and integrity set a standard for corporate citizenship for their peers and competitors to follow. Congratulations to Thrivent for achieving this honor and demonstrating that strong ethics is good business.”

Methodology & Scoring
The World’s Most Ethical Companies assessment is grounded in Ethisphere’s proprietary Ethics Quotient®, an extensive questionnaire that requires companies to provide over 240 different proof points on their culture of ethics; environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices; ethics and compliance program; diversity, equity, & inclusion; and initiatives that support a strong value chain. That data undergoes further qualitative analysis by our panel of experts who spend thousands of hours vetting and evaluating each year’s group of applicants. This process serves as an operating framework to capture and codify truly best-in-class ethics and compliance practices from organizations across industries and from around the world.

Honorees
To view the full list of this year’s honorees, please visit the World’s Most Ethical Companies website, at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/honorees.

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $179 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/23). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Ethisphere
Ethisphere is the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices that strengthen corporate brands, build trust in the marketplace, deliver business success. Ethisphere has deep expertise in measuring and defining core ethics standards using data-driven insights that help companies build strong cultures of ethics and integrity. Ethisphere honors superior achievement through its World’s Most Ethical Companies® recognition program, provides a community of industry experts with the Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA), and showcases trends and best practices in ethics with Ethisphere Magazine. Ethisphere also advances business performance through data-driven assessments, guidance, and benchmarking against its unparalleled data: the Culture Quotient dataset reflecting the ethical business practices of 3+ million employees around the world; and the Ethics Quotient dataset, featuring 240+ data points on the ethics, compliance, social, and governance practices of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit https://ethisphere.com.

“World’s Most Ethical Companies” and “Ethisphere” names and marks are registered trademarks of Ethisphere LLC. For details, visit worldsmostethicalcompanies.com.

MINNEAPOLIS – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, recently announced the results of its national board of directors election. As a membership-owned organization, Thrivent clients with eligible membership have an opportunity to select the candidates who will represent them on the national board of directors.

Thrivent’s board consists of 14 members and is chaired by N. Cornell Boggs. As the organization’s supreme governing body, the board oversees all matters involving Thrivent and focuses on serving the interests of its clients, now and into the future. Thrivent continues to be financially strong and stable, and is well-positioned to drive impact and deliver value to current and future clients.

Three incumbents reelected to board of directors
Incumbents Angie Rieger, Kathy Marinello, and Brian McGrane were elected to serve additional terms, which start in February 2024.

Angie Rieger has been a member of Thrivent’s Board of Directors since 2020. She serves on the Investment and Human Resource committees.
Kathy Marinello has been a member of the Thrivent Board of Directors since 2014. She chairs the Human Resource committee and serves on the Investment and Executive committees.
Brian McGrane joined the Thrivent Board of Directors in 2023. He serves on the Audit and Investment committees.
“The financial services industry is constantly evolving, and we need a diverse board of experienced leaders to help Thrivent perform today and transform for the future,” said Terry Rasmussen, president and CEO of Thrivent. “Angie, Kathy and Brian have demonstrated their commitment to fulfilling Thrivent’s purpose and serving clients for generations to come, and I’m thrilled our members have reelected them to serve another term.”

View the complete election results for 2023.

For more information on Thrivent’s Board of Directors and to read member biographies, visit our leadership page.

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $162 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/22). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For more information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s websites. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

MINNEAPOLIS – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, announced today that it will provide $542 million in dividend payments and policy enhancements, such as additional credited interest and reduced fees, to clients with membership in 2024. As a membership-owned organization founded more than 120 years ago, Thrivent doesn’t have stockholders and instead returns value to its clients, distributing more than $3 billion in the last 10 years alone. As part of this year’s record-breaking total payout, 77% of Thrivent’s policies—over 2.1 million—will receive some form of dividend or policy enhancement in 2024, a 9% increase from 2023.

“Thrivent serves millions of clients, and we deliver value to them with competitive products and solutions, strong investment performance and a commitment to financial stewardship. We have grown Thrivent’s surplus significantly over the past few years because of our disciplined financial management, and now we’re able to deliver record-breaking total payouts to our clients in 2024,” said David Royal, chief financial and investment officer. “Although never guaranteed, we’ve offered dividends to our clients for more than 100 consecutive years. This financial strength and stability—combined with Thrivent’s work to empower lives of service and faith—is why our clients put their trust in Thrivent.”

Thrivent’s strong business results and disciplined financial management has been reinforced by the strong ratings it continues to receive from independent rating agencies. Earlier this year, AM Best reaffirmed Thrivent’s A++ (Superior) rating, its strongest possible rating, which the organization has received for more than two decades. Thrivent also carries an Aa2 (Excellent) rating from Moody’s Investor Service, the third highest of the agency’s 21 rating categories, and an AA+ (Very Strong) rating from S&P Global Ratings, the second highest of the agency’s 20 rating categories.

About Thrivent  
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $162 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/22). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For more information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s websites. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

MINNEAPOLIS – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, continues to receive strong ratings from AM Best, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investor’s Service, affirming the organization’s ongoing financial strength and stability:

AM Best has affirmed Thrivent’s A++ (Superior) rating and stable outlook, the highest of the agency’s 13 rating categories. In its review, AM Best recognized Thrivent for continuing to maintain its balance sheet strength and stability, strong operating performance, favorable business profile and very strong enterprise risk management. It also noted Thrivent’s high-quality capital structure, which doesn’t utilize permitted practices, financial leverage, financial reinsurance or affiliated captives to house redundant reserves, and cited Thrivent’s diversified and well-managed product portfolio, loyal membership base and continued efforts to grow as positive factors.
S&P Global Ratings recently affirmed Thrivent’s AA+ (Very Strong) rating and stable outlook, the second highest of the agency’s 20 rating categories, Thrivent’s controlled distribution force, better-than-peer persistency ratio, strong competitive position, and excellent capital adequacy were highlighted as key strengths.
Finally, Moody’s Investor’s Service issued a continuation of Thrivent’s Aa2 (Excellent) rating and stable outlook, the third highest of the agency’s 21 rating categories. Moody’s cited Thrivent’s excellent financial profile, which is supported by strong capitalization, good financial flexibility and stable cash flow from its in-force life insurance and annuity businesses, as well as good profitability, consistent investment performance, and excellent capital levels.
“Thrivent continues to receive strong ratings because of the disciplined approach we take to managing our business. This is particularly significant in light of the changing economic and interest rate environment,” said David Royal, chief financial and investment officer at Thrivent. “These ratings reflect our commitment to maintaining our financial strength and stability so we can continue to fulfill our promises to clients for years to come. It’s our privilege to manage our clients’ assets and make business decisions that put their needs at the center.”

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $162 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/22). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Falls Church, Va. — Community Associations Institute (CAI), the leading international authority on community association governance, management, and education, applauds the introduction of H.R. 3777, the Disaster Assistance Fairness Act, in the U.S. House of Representatives last week.

Reps. David Rouzer (R-N.C.), Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), and Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) are leading the bipartisan legislation. Under current law, the Federal Emergency Management Agency inconsistently interprets regulations, thereby preventing community associations from qualifying for federal disaster response and recovery programs. H.R. 3777 will ensure housing cooperatives, condominiums, and homeowners associations are eligible for the same FEMA assistance available to other homeowners.

“Natural disasters, including tornadoes, wildfires, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and blizzards, impact homeowners in every state. CAI members from across the country are grateful to see the Disaster Assistance Fairness Act reintroduced,” says Thomas M. Skiba, CAE, CAI’s chief executive officer. “It will give homeowners living in some of the most affordable communities access to FEMA’s recovery resources to restore their condominium and cooperative buildings back to livable conditions. It also would allow homeowners associations to use resources to remove debris immediately following a disaster, clearing a path for emergency and essential vehicles.”

The bill changes two elements of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief Act. It makes essential common elements of a community association (such as a roof, exterior wall, heating and cooling equipment, elevator, stairwell, utility access, plumbing, and electricity) eligible under FEMA’s Federal Assistance to Individuals and Households Program. It also makes community associations eligible under FEMA’s requirements for the removal of debris in the aftermath of a major disaster.

The bill co-sponsors agree that all Americans, regardless of their form of housing, have the right to benefit from FEMA’s response, recovery, and mitigation resources.

“Under FEMA’s current eligibility rules, condominiums, cooperatives, and homeowners associations don’t have the same access to FEMA individual assistance as single-family homeowners. This makes it difficult for many families to recover and rebuild their homes and lives,” says Rouzer, the lead Republican on the bill. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure all North Carolinians impacted by disasters can fully recover.”

The National Association of Housing Cooperatives also welcomes the introduction of the legislation. “The resident owners of housing cooperatives, condominiums, and homeowners associations deserve the same consideration from our federal government as individual homeowners when disaster strikes their homes,” says Fred Gibbs, president of NAHC.

Read more about how CAI is advocating for disaster response and recovery at www.caionline.org/FEMA.

About Community Associations Institute
Since 1973, Community Associations Institute (CAI) has been the leading provider of resources and information for homeowners, volunteer board leaders, professional managers, and business professionals in the more than 358,000 homeowners associations, condominiums, and housing cooperatives in the United States and millions of communities worldwide. With more than 44,000 members, CAI works in partnership with 36 legislative action committees and 64 affiliated chapters within the U.S., Canada, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates as well as with housing leaders in several other countries, including Australia, Spain, and the United Kingdom. A global nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization, CAI is the foremost authority in community association management, governance, education, and advocacy. Our mission is to inspire professionalism, effective leadership, and responsible citizenship—ideals reflected in community associations that are preferred places to call home. Visit us at www.caionline.org, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook @CAISocial.

MINNEAPOLIS – Thrivent, a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization, today announced the launch of its Multi-Year Guarantee AnnuityTM (MYGA) product solution. This deferred fixed annuity gives Thrivent clients a flexible solution for today’s interest rate environment and offers multiple guaranteed fixed rate options along with the features and tax benefits of a traditional annuity.

Thrivent’s MYGA offers its clients a guaranteed interest rate over 3, 5, 7 or 9-year periods, allowing them to lock in today’s high interest rates over multiple consecutive years. Depending on their financial goals, clients can choose a market value adjustment feature – which offers a higher interest rate – or a return of premium option that allows them to surrender at any point, providing additional liquidity. The MYGA solution can be especially attractive for pre-retirees and retirees who want to safely and steadily grow their retirement income during a period when they’re approaching or already living on a fixed income.

Thrivent’s MYGA solution will enhance the financial services organization’s current annuity portfolio, which includes a variety of products and services to meet a range of client needs.

“As our clients continue to navigate market volatility and economic headwinds, we developed a flexible solution with guaranteed returns that they can customize based on their unique financial needs,” said Mike DeKoning, senior vice president of Insurance and Wealth Management Solutions, Thrivent. “We know that MYGA solutions are especially attractive as more clients consider fixed annuity solutions during this higher interest rate environment. Our MYGA solution is easy to understand, provides certainty to clients in an uncertain time and is backed by the financial strength and stability of Thrivent.”

A recent Retirement Readiness Survey from Thrivent found that only 40 percent of Americans have ‘very much’ or ‘somewhat’ been able to achieve the retirement goals they have set for themselves. Additionally, only 5 percent of near retirees say they are 100 percent ready for retirement. Offering a solution like MYGA with opportunities for guaranteed returns can help fill a critical gap for those who need a reliable and recurring stream of income in retirement. It could also be used to help clients diversify their portfolios, incorporate tax efficiency into their retirement strategies or leave a legacy for their loved ones.

“What sets Thrivent apart is our ability and expertise to provide our clients with purpose-based advice that’s actionable and achievable,” added DeKoning. “Even in a challenging financial environment, we’re ready to turn advice into action by providing solutions like Thrivent’s MYGA that help our clients achieve their long-term financial goals.”

About Thrivent
Thrivent is a diversified financial services organization that helps people achieve financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude. Thrivent and its subsidiary and affiliate companies serve more than 2.3 million clients, offering advice, insurance, investments, banking and generosity products and programs online and through financial advisors and independent agents nationwide. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 company with $162 billion in assets under management/advisement (as of 12/31/22). Thrivent carries ratings from independent rating agencies which demonstrate the strength and stability of the organization, including an A++ rating from AM Best; an Aa2 rating from Moody’s Investors Service; and an AA+ rating from S&P Global Ratings. Ratings are based on Thrivent’s financial strength and claims-paying ability, but do not apply to investment product performance. For information on these ratings, visit the rating agency’s website. Dividends are not guaranteed. For more information about Thrivent, visit Thrivent.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

BOSTON, Following the successful launch of AIR, a new cloud-based platform allowing organizations to offer an anonymous incident reporting system to its employees, NorthstarPMO Inc. today announced that it is making the system available to schools and nonprofits in the US completely free of charge.

AIR is a SaaS (software-as-a-service) platform that makes anonymous reporting systems accessible to smaller organizations for the first time.

Free anonymous reporting software for schools and nonprofits
Free anonymous reporting software for schools and nonprofits
“Every day, hard-working employees in smaller businesses are exposed to harassment, toxic environments, and other forms of abuse” says David Bradshaw, SVP of Client Services at Northstar. “AIR gives these victims a voice, allowing them to take a stand and make the workplace safer for everyone. What sets our system apart from the rest is that it within reach of any organization. AIR requires no software or hardware installation, can be set up in 10 minutes, and is available for a low monthly fee – discounted for organizations with fewer than 100 employees.”

Bradshaw continues: “In designing a system that is financially and technically more accessible to smaller organizations, we have also put anonymous reporting systems within reach of nonprofit organizations that work hard to improve our communities, on very limited budgets. Today’s announcement goes one step further and enables any nonprofit in the US to deploy an anonymous reporting system in 10 minutes, completely free of charge.”

Features of AIR include:

Fully managed anonymous reporting platform
No software or hardware installations required
Access from any device, anywhere
Secure, two-way messaging preserving anonymity
Intuitive user experience, similar to text messaging
Innovative Responder Groups feature allows users to choose who sees their messages
Optional SMS and Email notifications for new reports and responses
AIR is available now, FREE for US-based schools and nonprofits, and starting at just $49 per month for for-profit organizations with fewer than 100 employees. A free trial is available.

For more information on AIR, visit https://www.northstarpmo.com/anonymous-reporting-service/.

About Northstar: Northstar is the People Operations company supporting the growth of SMEs and non-profits nationwide. We offer a range of services to help with HR operations, payroll/benefits, HR audits, recruiting, employee handbooks, as well as strategic projects such as workforce planning, leadership training, and DEIB programs. Headquartered in Boston, MA, Northstar is set up to operate with remote clients, enabling us to serve our clients no matter where they are in the world.

Media Contact:
David Bradshaw
NorthstarPMO Inc.
+1 617-286-2212
344273@email4pr.com
https://www.northstarpmo.com/

SOURCE NorthstarPMO Inc

ATLANTA, Aug. 8, 2022 — Habitat for Humanity International has partnered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a program that aims to increase affordable homeownership opportunities among the veteran population in the U.S.

Veterans who are enrolled in Habitat’s Veterans Build program at affiliates in Saginaw, Mich., Mingo County, W. Va., and Will and DuPage counties, Ill., and the HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program will be able to use their HUD-VASH housing choice rental assistance voucher to partially subsidize homeownership expenses for up to 10 or 15 years depending on the mortgage term of their affordable home build. As part of the pilot, the VA will provide ongoing case management and clinical services to enrolled veterans to help prevent future housing and personal crises.

“The transition from military life to civilian life can be challenging for veterans. A struggle to adjust, or difficulty obtaining essentials such as housing, employment, education, and healthcare, can lead to homelessness, unemployment, or living with chronic health conditions,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “At Habitat, we know that decent and affordable housing provides tremendous social and economic benefit. Veterans have sacrificed so much to serve our country. It is incumbent on us to serve them by helping them find long-term stability through safe and affordable shelter.”

The National Low-Income Housing Coalition previously estimated that more than 25 percent of veteran households in the U.S., are cost burdened. Of those, an estimated 1.5 million are severely cost burdened, spending more than 50 percent of their income on housing.

Habitat’s Veterans Build program seeks to address that problem by partnering with veterans and their families to improve their lives through new home construction, critical home repairs, community engagement and education, job training and employment opportunities.

“President Biden declared that America’s sacred obligation is to ensure troops sent into harm’s way are prepared, and veterans and their families are cared for when they return home,” said Monica Diaz, executive director of the Veterans Health Administration Homeless Programs Office. “This partnership will be integral in fulfilling this obligation and improving the lives of thousands of veterans and their families. Every individual who has served our country deserves a safe, stable place to call home.”

About Habitat for Humanity
Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity found its earliest inspirations as a grassroots movement on an interracial community farm in south Georgia. Since its founding in 1976, the Christian housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in local communities across all 50 states in the U.S. and in more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitat.org.

SOURCE Habitat for Humanity International

CONTACT: Erika Boyce, Habitat for Humanity International, (404) 420-6732, newsroom@habitat.org, habitat.org/newsroom

VIENNA, June 24, 2022 — Development partners attending the OPEC Fund’s Development Forum in Vienna this week demonstrated their resolve to address urgent global challenges by entering new commitments for financial support and signing cooperation agreements.

Signings and announcements included the following:

The OPEC Fund and the Republic of Kosovo signed a “Framework Agreement for Private Sector Operations,” which aims to strengthen the private sector in Kosovo with a focus on infrastructure, connectivity, energy and water. OPEC Fund Director Dr. Abdulhamid Alkhalifa had visited Kosovo in June and expressed the ambition to deepen the partnership.
The Asian Development Bank and the OPEC Fund launched a trust fund to improve project readiness in developing countries. As a first contribution, the OPEC Fund is committing US$3 million to the fund, which will provide technical assistance to improve the delivery of investment projects through enhanced preparation, design, and procurement.
The OPEC Fund and the regional South American development bank FONPLATA signed a “Cooperation Agreement” to broaden and deepen the partnership through more co-financing of strategic projects in the Latin America and Caribbean region, where FONPLATA operates.
The OPEC Fund is teaming up with the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) to design and deliver a new Climate Finance and Energy Innovation Hub, which is set to be launched at the UN climate conference COP27 in Egypt in November. Designed as a global end-to-end policy and finance platform, this hub will harness the power of financial innovation to source, unlock, de-risk and scale-up investments in energy access and transition. Recognizing the crucial role of clean cooking the OPEC Fund is earmarking US$100 million in support of relevant projects in DRC, Madagascar, Malawi, and Rwanda as part of the initiative.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the OPEC Fund signed a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate access to innovative financing solutions, unlock investment and support project development to advance renewable energy investment and enable access to sustainable finance in emerging and developing economies.
OPEC Fund Director-General Dr. Alkhalifa said: “These new commitments and signings are a declaration of our intent to join forces in the face of unprecedented challenges. One clear takeaway from our event was the need for urgent, targeted and joint action in areas such as climate change, energy access and food supply. We are very encouraged by the success and positive momentum generated at our Forum which provides the energy to move forward swiftly and forcefully.”

The OPEC Fund Development Forum “Driving Resilience & Equity” gathered government leaders, ministers from OPEC Fund member and partner countries, heads of the Arab Coordination Group institutions, senior officials of multilateral development banks and international organizations as well as private sector representatives. The event included panels on “Climate Challenges vs Energy Needs – Development Perspectives,” “Innovations that Enable a Smart Energy Future,” and “Turning Public Ambition into Effective Action,” and closed with a conversation on “South-South Co-ownership in Development Progress.”

The date of the 2023 OPEC Fund Development Forum will be announced shortly.

About the OPEC Fund

The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established by the member countries of OPEC in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$22 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of US$187 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and AA/Positive Outlook by S&P in 2021. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.

SOURCE OPEC Fund for International Development

CONTACT: Basak Pamir, +43151564174, b.pamir@opecfund.org

NEWARK, N.J., – The PSEG Foundation is pleased to announce its new strategic pillars of environmental sustainability, social justice, and equity and economic empowerment. The PSEG Foundation funds grants to more than 200 nonprofit organizations that have an impact in communities in New Jersey and Long Island, N.Y. Over the past five years, the PSEG Foundation has awarded more than $40 million in grants through various programs including strategic partnerships, the Neighborhood Partners Program and a robust employee matching gift program to help organizations that support thousands of individuals and families across the region.

“It is a privilege for the PSEG Foundation to support and celebrate the work of these organizations, whose generosity serve the needs of millions of people in the communities we serve in New Jersey and Long Island,” Senior Vice President for Corporate Citizenship and PSEG Foundation Chairperson Rick Thigpen said. “Our new strategic pillars represent the true essence of the PSEG Foundation’s support of underserved communities.”

Most recently, the PSEG Foundation awarded nearly $1.8 million in grants to Montclair State University Foundation for its Green Teams program; Foundation for NJIT for a number of programs, including scholarships; American Red Cross for the Home Fire Campaign; New Jersey Hall of Fame for educational programming; and Community FoodBank of New Jersey for its Recovery Challenge Initiative.

This is in addition to its regular support for the Arbor Day Foundation, Greater Newark Habitat for Humanity, Hampton University, Howard University, North Carolina A&T, Rutgers University, Stevens Institute of Technology, Stony Brook University, Sustainable Jersey, The Nature Conservancy, The New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, UNCF and many more critically important organizations.

“The pandemic revealed many inequalities and inequities facing our communities,” PSEG Foundation President Calvin Ledford Jr. said. “For that reason, the PSEG Foundation has allocated $1 million to our Neighborhood Partners Program to support nonprofits working at a grassroots level. Through the Neighborhood Partners Program, the PSEG Foundation supports nonprofits that are addressing the social determinants of health, food insecurity, social and environmental justice, and other issues. The PSEG Foundation is committed to helping build sustainable and thriving communities by empowering and investing in the many diverse communities we are honored to serve.”

PSEG is a predominantly regulated infrastructure company focused on a clean energy future, powered by a diverse, dedicated and highly skilled workforce. The PSEG Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is the philanthropic arm of PSEG. Guided by its Powering Progress vision, PSEG aims to power a future where people use less energy, and it’s cleaner, safer and delivered more reliably than ever.

Here’s what just a few of our partners are saying:

“The PSEG Foundation is a dedicated, longstanding supporter of our mission,” said Carlos Rodriguez, president and CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. “For many years, their partnership has been essential to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s ability to combat hunger and its root causes in service of the 800,000 food insecure people in our state. Recently, the PSEG Foundation provided generous disaster relief support for our Recovery Challenge Initiative, which will allow us to offer emergency response, to help build back communities, and to increase our investment in historically under-resourced neighborhoods.”

“We are very grateful for PSEG’s vision for a socially just New Jersey and for its support of our work to achieve racial justice and equity in our state,” said Ryan Haygood, president and CEO of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice. “PSEG Foundation has helped make possible the institute’s work to transform our broken youth justice system and to help ensure New Jersey’s young people get the mental health support they need. It has also allowed our team to travel to Selma, Alabama, for annual commemorations of the iconic voting rights march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, increasing our team’s knowledge as well as our motivation to expand New Jersey’s democracy. The PSEG Foundation’s contribution to that and other work is deeply appreciated.”

“PSEG Foundation grants are instrumental in Stevens’ efforts to support energy innovation and public service, two areas of strong mutual interest,” Stevens Institute of Technology President Nariman Farvardin said. “The PSEG Foundation’s generosity has benefited scores of students, particularly underrepresented minorities and those in underserved communities — many directly due to the foundation’s support for the university’s Lore-El Women’s Leadership Center, Stevens ACES (Accessing Careers in Engineering and Science) initiative and our pre-college program. Through the collaborative efforts of this partnership, Stevens’ faculty will continue to pioneer high-impact research in resilience and sustainability, which are of significant consequence for the future of society.”

“PSEG Foundation grants are instrumental in Sustainable Jersey’s efforts to support municipalities, schools and school districts in achieving their local sustainability goals and making progress on critical issues of statewide and global concern such as climate action,” said Randall Solomon, executive director of Sustainable Jersey. “The PSEG Foundation helps our organization strengthen the efforts of New Jersey communities as they create a new era of sustainability in New Jersey – one that secures economic, environmental and societal well-being.”

About the PSEG Foundation
The PSEG Foundation, 501(c)(3), the philanthropic arm of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), prioritizes investments promoting environmental sustainability, social justice, and equity and economic empowerment. Headquartered in Newark, N.J., PSEG is a predominantly regulated infrastructure company focused on a clean energy future. In 2021, PSEG was named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index North America for the 14th consecutive year, named to the JUST 100 as one of America’s Most JUST Companies, and has been listed among America’s Most Responsible Companies for 2022 by Newsweek (https://corporate.pseg.com/).

Visit PSEG at:
www.pseg.com
PSEG on Facebook
PSEG on Twitter
PSEG on LinkedIn
PSEG Energize!

CONTACT:
Media Relations
Marijke Shugrue
908-531-4253
Marijke.Shugrue@pseg.com

NEW YORK, Jan. 31, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Today, in partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA), The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), Cisco Systems, Take-Two Interactive, The Starbucks Foundation, Bank of America, and Delta Air Lines, Covenant House is launching “Rising to Tomorrow,” a bold new commitment to end youth homelessness. This new initiative will support the work of providing more than 4 million nights of housing over the next five years for youth facing homelessness. In addition to new beds, this means more food, and more medical and mental health support.

Covenant House is the largest, primarily privately-funded charity in the Americas helping youth experiencing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking, providing 24/7 crisis care, and ongoing support in 33 cities across six countries. This year marks 50 years that Covenant House has remained open 24/7 to young people facing homelessnes. The new “Rising to Tomorrow” campaign was initiated to recognize a half a century of believing in youth and nurturing Covenant House’s promise to them.

This initiative will support the work of providing more than 4 million nights of housing for youth facing homelessness.

“At 50, our mission is more vibrant, more relevant, and more important than at any time in our history,” said Covenant House President & CEO Kevin Ryan. “But the trials of the COVID pandemic have laid bare the extent of the youth homelessness crisis. We need to do more. Today our young people are calling us to be bolder, to amplify their voices, and grow this movement to end youth homelessness.”

Rising to Tomorrow is a yearlong cross-channel campaign that offers opportunities to become informed and get involved in the fight to end youth homelessness through groundbreaking new research launches, engaging thought-leadership opportunities, meaningful in-person/virtual events, and our biggest global Sleep Out yet.

The campaign will feature Robin Roberts, anchor of ABC’s “Good Morning America,” who will be receiving the prestigious Covenant House Beacon of Hope award in recognition of her tireless efforts to amplify the voices of young people experiencing homelessness and inspiring millions of young people to be proud, strong, and brave. Robin joins an elite group of distinguished past Beacon of Hope award recipients including: First Lady Laura Bush; rock star and philanthropist Jon Bon Jovi; country star and philanthropist Martina McBride; Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman; humanitarian Olivia Harrison, wife of the late, great Beatle and philanthropist George; six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald; and Golden Globe and Emmy award winner Rachel Brosnahan.

“Our Rising to Tomorrow campaign will champion our strong, resilient young people and, with help from dedicated partners and amazing ambassadors like Robin Roberts, we will grow our movement and renew and strengthen our commitment to ending youth homelessness,” said Ryan. “It can be done, and it must be done.”

The goal of Rising to Tomorrow is to provide over 4 million nights of housing over the next five years, including opening more beds, serving more food, meeting more medical and mental health needs. “We will also amplify our advocacy efforts, for racially just housing and for human rights, attacking what we know are the root causes of youth homelessness,” said Ryan.

Covenant House could not meet this goal without the support of its partners and their commitment to help the organization end youth homelessness. The NBA, NBPA, Cisco, Take-Two Interactive, The Starbucks Foundation, Bank of America, and Delta Air Lines commented on the importance of fighting youth homelessness, and supporting Covenant House’s ambitious Rising to Tomorrow campaign:

“We are proud to work alongside our partners at the NBPA to support Covenant House as they launch Rising to Tomorrow and continue their decadeslong commitment to ending youth homelessness nationwide and in communities where the NBA and our teams live, work, and play,” said Kathy Behrens, NBA president of social responsibility and player program. “As many continue to be impacted by the pandemic, we know it is more critical than ever that we work to make a difference in the lives of at-risk young people.”

“Our investment in Covenant House reflects our players’ commitment to addressing inequities across communities and supporting the organizations that seek to improve the lives of those in need,” said Lyzz Ogunwo, interim executive director of the NBPA Foundation. “We are thrilled to be a part of this united effort to support this important work around homelessness.”

“For eight years, Cisco has been proud to partner with Covenant House as they serve youth overcoming homelessness,” said Fran Katsoudas, chief people, policy & purpose officer at Cisco. “We’ve engaged over 1,600 employees to help Covenant House programs in a wide variety of ways, all with the goal to build a bridge to hope for young people facing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking. We see this Rising to Tomorrow campaign as a new, exciting opportunity to expand our partnership and look forward to working with more of the amazing youth at Covenant House.”

“Youth homelessness is nothing short of a crisis,” said Strauss Zelnick, chair and CEO of Take-Two Interactive, who along with his spouse, Wendy Belzberg, was instrumental in funding a new, purpose-built facility in New York City which opened in November. “This Rising to Tomorrow initiative stares down the problem of youth homelessness and tackles it head on. If we succeed, we will get more of our most vulnerable youth, children without homes, and survivors of human trafficking out of harm’s way and onto a sustainable path to independence.”

“At Starbucks, we believe it is our responsibility to build bridges and advance equity on behalf of our partners (employees) and communities,” said Virginia Tenpenny, chief social impact officer at Starbucks and board member of The Starbucks Foundation. “Comprehensive support is critical to helping young people experiencing homelessness overcome systemic barriers to transform their lives and achieve sustainable independence. We are proud to work with Covenant House to support this initiative and create career pathways for unsheltered youth.”

“As an active partner in supporting Covenant House’s mission and principles, we know the impact that connecting youth to opportunity can have on the communities we serve,” said Stephanie Lomibao, senior vice president and ESG program manager for Bank of America. “We believe that initiatives like Rising to Tomorrow will advance economic mobility by helping individuals overcome extraordinary barriers. We are proud to be a part of this campaign as we collectively work to end youth homelessness.”

“Our partnership with Covenant House started back in 2012, and we’ve been fortunate to work with young people at Covenant House programs all across the U.S. and in Mexico City,” said Stephanie Asbury, senior vice president – global talent, Delta Air Lines. “We just opened a youth development center at Covenant House New York where youth will have a variety of classes and experiences, including resume writing, music and creative arts, poetry and creative writing, financial literacy and planning. Working with young people as they pursue their dreams continues to be an amazing gift to all of us at Delta Air Lines.”

To join us in the fight to end youth homelessness and support our work to provide over 4 million nights of housing, go to covenanthouse.org/50.

ABOUT COVENANT HOUSE
Covenant House is the largest primarily privately-funded agency in the Americas providing shelter, food, medical and mental health care, crisis intervention, educational and vocational services, and an array of supportive services to youth facing homelessness regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression. For 50 years, Covenant House has served and advocated for youth and young families experiencing homelessness, human trafficking, and exploitation, providing them an environment rooted in unconditional love, absolute respect, and relentless support. Our staff and high-quality programs and services help young people achieve housing stability, heal from trauma, and hone their interests and skills to forge new pathways to independence. Our doors are open 24/7 and this work is carried out across Covenant House sites in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. For more information, go to covenanthouse.org.

SOURCE Covenant House

CONTACT: Tom Manning | SVP, Public Relations | tmanning@covenanthouse.org | 845.300.2126

CHICAGO, Jan. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Conagra Brands announced today the five nonprofit organizations receiving grants, totaling $25,000, following the company’s Sustainable Development Awards, which were held earlier this year. Each winning company facility directed a $5,000 grant from Conagra Brands to a nonprofit organization to be used in their communities for projects with a focus on sustainability.

Conagra Brands’ annual Sustainable Development Awards is an employee-led program that encourages the development and implementation of innovative ideas related to sustainable production and business practices. This year, employees from across the organization submitted more than 200 sustainability-focused projects that conserve water, reduce waste and save energy, underscoring Conagra’s commitment to nourishing and restoring the planet. Winning teams are honored at an internal celebration and select a local organization to receive a grant supporting sustainability-focused projects.

“For more than a decade, Conagra’s Sustainable Development Awards program has recognized our teams committed to making great food responsibly,” said Katya Hantel, senior director of sustainability at Conagra Brands. “These grants will help our employees give back to their local communities and revitalize the planet.”

From preserving trails and parks to supporting the health of local wildlife, forests and water sources, this year’s grant recipients are dedicated to protecting local ecosystems. Below is a complete list of the recipients and the projects that the grants will support:

Central Sierra Environmental Resource Center (CSERC) – selected by Conagra’s Oakdale, Calif. facility: CSERC works to build broad consensus for forest treatments that help protect millions of acres of public and private forest lands from devastating wildfires, insect outbreaks and pollution. Funds from Conagra’s grant will support initiatives that fund significant forest health projects and shape long-term river management solutions.
Friends of the Polly Ann Trail Milestones and Benefits – selected by Conagra’s Imlay City, Mich. facility: The Friends group supports the Polly Ann Trail by funding improvements and maintenance and by promoting the trail to the community. Funds from Conagra’s grant will support ongoing maintenance work on the trail.
Landmark Conservancy – selected by Conagra’s Menomonie, Wis. facility: Landmark is a non-profit conservation organization serving 20 counties in western and northwestern Wisconsin, working to conserve lands and create public preserves and trails for all to enjoy. Funds from Conagra’s grant will help fund projects related to the Devil’s Punchbowl Preserve land management needs and implementation of new technologies to improve trail infrastructure.
Missouri State Parks Foundation – selected by Conagra’s Macon, Mo. facility: The Missouri State Parks Foundation is focused on keeping Missouri’s 92 state parks and historic sites strong and vital. Funds from Conagra’s grant will help support the development of the Rock Island Line Corridor and restoration of the Meramec River bridge.
Wings Over Wisconsin (Beaver Dam Chapter) – selected by Conagra’s Beaver Dam, Wis. facility: The Wings Over Wisconsin Beaver Dam Chapter promotes the proliferation of wild winged birds by enhancing wildlife cover and food plots in habitat restoration areas, raising and releasing pheasants on designated project areas and through other projects. Funds from Conagra’s grant will help the nonprofit continue its work to attain and restore wildlife habitats.
About Conagra Brands
Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG), headquartered in Chicago, is one of North America’s leading branded food companies. Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit, Conagra Brands combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus on innovation. The company’s portfolio is evolving to satisfy people’s changing food preferences. Conagra’s iconic brands, such as Birds Eye®, Duncan Hines®, Healthy Choice®, Marie Callender’s®, Reddi-wip®, and Slim Jim®, as well as emerging brands, including Angie’s® BOOMCHICKAPOP®, Duke’s®, Earth Balance®, Gardein®, and Frontera®, offer choices for every occasion. For more information, visit www.ConagraBrands.com.

For all media inquiries, please contact:
Tim Wrona, Conagra Brands
312-549-5400
tim.wrona@conagra.com

SOURCE Conagra Brands, Inc.

Related Links
https://www.conagrafoods.com

TORONTO, Dec. 16, 2021 /CNW/ – On Saturday, December 18, Walmart Canada will host the 12th annual “Fill the Kettle Day” and match donations made by individuals to Salvation Army Christmas kettles located in its stores nationwide, to a maximum of $100,000.

Since 2007, Walmart Canada and its customers have donated more than $35 million to The Salvation Army. This holiday season, Walmart Canada has already donated more that $50,000 to CTV Toy Mountain in Toronto, Ottawa and Winnipeg to help The Salvation Army purchase new toys that will be distributed to children in need this Christmas.

Join our army of givers by donating to a Christmas kettle (CNW Group/The Salvation Army)
Join our army of givers by donating to a Christmas kettle (CNW Group/The Salvation Army)
“The impacts of the pandemic and the uncertainty that comes with it continues to affect low-income families and individuals. Providing a memorable Christmas only adds to their already stressful situations,” says Lt-Colonel John Murray, territorial secretary for communications. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to our supporters and partners such as Walmart Canada for coming alongside to ensure that all who come to us for assistance will experience the joy of the holiday season.”

Last year, The Salvation Army helped more than 2.1 million Canadians with food, clothing and practical help. With a $20-million national fundraising goal, the Christmas Kettle Campaign enables local Salvation Army units to offer necessities to struggling people. Contributions to the campaign also support The Salvation Army’s life-changing programs, such as substance-use recovery, housing supports, and job and life-skills training, which help people find a permanent way out of poverty.

“We are very proud to partner with The Salvation Army, one of Canada’s largest providers of social assistance, to help make Christmas a reality for Canadians from coast-to-coast,” said Rob Nicol, vice president, corporate affairs at Walmart Canada. “In these challenging times, we ask Canadians to give generously. Together we can help The Salvation Army reach its fundraising goal this holiday season and help Canadians live better.”

“This year, in the season of giving, we want to create an army of givers,” says Lt-Colonel Murray. “We couldn’t do what we do without the strong support and generosity of our partners, donors and volunteers. In these final days before Christmas, everyone needs an army, so we invite people to make a lasting impact in their community by donating to a Christmas kettle, online at SalvationArmy.ca or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.”

About The Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become one of the largest direct providers of social services in the country. The Salvation Army Canada gives hope and support to vulnerable people in 400 communities across Canada and in more than 130 countries around the world. Its community and social service activities include: hunger relief for individuals and families through food banks and feeding programs; shelter for people experiencing homelessness and support for those needing housing; rehabilitation for those struggling with substance-use disorders; long-term and palliative care; Christmas assistance, such as food hampers and toys; after-school programs, camps and school nutrition programs for children and youth; and life-skills classes, such as budgeting, cooking for a family, and anger management. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca.

SOURCE The Salvation Army

CONTACT: Neil Leduke, National Director of Marketing and Communications, The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters for Canada and Bermuda, 416 578 7998, Neil.Leduke@salvationarmy.ca; Linda Leigh,Manager of Communications, The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters for Canada and Bermuda, 416 889 0423, Linda.Leigh@salvationarmy.ca