Franklin Templeton

Nasdaq

Kenvue

Franklin Templeton Celebrates Global Volunteerism During 19th Annual Impact Days

Succession Planning: A Board’s Blueprint for Stability

Science in Action: Kenvue Research Driving Real-Life Solutions

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eac02433-de40-4799-8692-103114cda35a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/photo-ella-the-banker_U.S.Bank_7.31.25A.jpg" width="640" height="675" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Shamim Okolloh, right, and her daughter, Ella, left, are joined by a young reader holding the book inspired by Ella and written by Ella's brother, Liam.</figcaption></figure><a href="https://www.usbank.com/about-us-bank/company-blog/article-library/doctor-youtuber-or-banker-mom-son-write-about-growing-up-to-work-in-banking.html" target="_blank">Originally published on U.S Bank company blog</a>

Shamim Okolloh’s son, Liam, knew he wanted to be an author ever since he devoured the Harry Potter series as an eight-year-old. So when her younger daughter, Ella, declared in first grade that she wanted to be a commercial banker when she grew up, it sparked a powerful idea.

“I know from going into classrooms for community outreach that when you ask kids what they want to be when they grow up, you’ll hear doctor, lawyer, YouTuber. You rarely hear ‘banker’ because the narrative around banking isn’t visible to them,” Shamim said. “So I took my daughter’s interest in banking and my son’s passion for storytelling and came up with our first book.”

In 2024, Shamim and Liam co-authored Ella the Banker, making Liam’s dream of becoming a writer come true while he was in fifth grade. The brightly illustrated book tells the fictional story of Ella, who goes on a second-grade field trip to a bank. There, she learns about the variety of careers in banking and the services banks provide. Inspired, she sets her sights on becoming a commercial banker so she can help entrepreneurs build their dreams.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b185ff31-0ca5-478d-8e81-87cf0dc73ca3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/photo-ella-the-banker_U.S.%20Bank_7.31.25B.jpg" width="300" height="376" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>'Ella the Banker' author Liam Okolloh, left with branch manager Ramone Davis.</figcaption></figure>Shamim opened a dedicated account for the book’s proceeds at the U.S. Bank branch in the Geyer Springs neighborhood of Little Rock, Arkansas. As the staff got to know her and her children, a deeper connection formed.

“They became like part of the family,” said branch manager Ramone Davis. “It’s been inspiring to see a single mother of two bring her vision to life — and to see her son become a published author at just 10 years old. There’s not a lot of representation of women, especially women of color, in the banking space, and even less in commercial banking.”

To expand its impact, the financial education nonprofit Economics Arkansas developed a curriculum to accompany the book for elementary school teachers. Business access advisor Cassandra Kidd, who has known Shamim for several years through their respective community work, helped secure a $2,500 contribution from U.S. Bank to distribute the book to nearly 600 schools across the state.

“Ella the Banker financial education books have supported local Arkansas students and beyond,” said Kristen Polchinski, U.S. Bank’s community affairs manager in the Missouri/Arkansas Market.

“This is a great example of how our <a href="https://www.usbank.com/about-us-bank/community.html" target="_blank">U.S. Bank Community Possible</a> program combines strategic philanthropy with hands-on engagement, creating lasting, positive change – one community at a time.”

Liam’s dream of becoming an author has since grown into a family-led business, centered on financial education and literacy tools for young readers — engaging not just children, but also families, schools, and financial institutions.

The book continues to reach wider audiences beyond classrooms. Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. officially declared January 9, 2024, as “Ella the Banker Day.” In July, the Okolloh family will speak at the Texas Bankers Association and Jump$tart Coalition Financial Education Summit at the Federal Reserve Bank in Dallas.

They’ve also shared Ella the Banker at numerous events and institutions, including:

<ul><li>The American Bankers Association Bank Marketing Conference in Chicago</li>
	<li>Financial Women in Texas (Waco, TX)</li>
	<li>Little Rock Police Department Summer Youth Camp</li>
	<li>Central Arkansas Library System</li>
	<li>Schools across the state of Arkansas</li>
</ul>The book was also featured as the cover story in Arkansas Next Money magazine, with the headline “A Teen’s Guide to Managing Money.” Over 50,000 copies of that issue were distributed to high schools throughout the state.

To date, more than 2,000 copies of Ella the Banker have been sold directly to consumers — and counting. The book is available at online retailers including Target, Walmart, Amazon, and Barnes &amp; Noble, as well as local bookstores in Little Rock.

“The word I would use to describe Shamim is ‘intentional,’” said Kidd. “The characters are so inclusive that anyone can see themselves in the story. My grandson is only 2, and when I read it to him, he’s immediately drawn to the vibrant, joyful illustrations.”

Building on this success, Shamim and Liam released a second book earlier this year titled Ella the Banker: Let Us Save. This follow-up focuses on savings habits and was inspired by real-life conversations within their family — including favorite activities like recess and forming school clubs. The sequel is available in Spanish.

U.S Bank was proud to be the presenting sponsor at the Ella the Banker: Let Us Save book launch this Spring, Kidd said. Families received free copies of the book along with face painting and snowcones.

“The second book encourages families to visit banks together and reminds our bilingual communities that many banks have Spanish-speaking bankers,” Shamim said.

The family was drafting this second book just as Shamim was diagnosed with breast cancer last summer. After undergoing treatment, she is now cancer-free — and says the experience has “only deepened my purpose and resolve.”

Doctor, YouTuber or Banker? Mom, Son Write About Growing Up To Work in Banking

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/csr_whirlpool_073125_1.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

Whirlpool Corporation has always put life at home at the core of our business. As a leading kitchen and laundry company, we constantly strive to improve the home experience for everyone, especially in the communities where we operate. 
Through the Whirlpool Corp. House+Home strategy, which guides both Whirlpool Corporation and the Whirlpool Foundation's corporate social responsibility initiatives, our dedication to building thriving communities is achieved by enabling comfortable, nurturing places to live and supporting resilient, sustainable communities through education programs and unique collaborations. 
We're incredibly grateful for the organizations and employees who contribute to our House+Home programs. Together, we're creating lasting, meaningful impact in our communities and around the world.  <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/habitat-for-humanity-international/" target="_blank">Habitat for Humanity International</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/boys-&amp;-girls-club/" target="_blank">Boys &amp; Girls Club</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/maytag/" target="_blank">Maytag</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/kitchenaid/" target="_blank">KitchenAid</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/whirlpool/" target="_blank">Whirlpool</a> Care Counts, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewashingmachineproject/" target="_blank">The Washing Machine Project</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/instituto-consulado-da-mulher/" target="_blank">Instituto Consulado da Mulher</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/united-way-worldwide/" target="_blank">United Way</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/gladiatorbrand/" target="_blank">Gladiator</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/insinkerator/" target="_blank">InSinkErator</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/jennair/" target="_blank">JennAir</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-of-whirlpool-studios/" target="_blank">World of Whirlpool Studios</a>

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is a leading home appliance company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. As the only major U.S.-based manufacturer of kitchen and laundry appliances, the company is driving meaningful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, JennAir, Maytag, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, and InSinkErator. In 2024, the company reported approximately $17 billion in annual sales - close to 90% of which were in the Americas - 44,000 employees, and 40 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at <a href="http://whirlpoolcorp.com/" target="_blank">WhirlpoolCorp.com</a>.

View original content <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/whirlpool-corporation_whirlpool-corporation-social-responsibility-activity-7353799405587632128-Lf1R/?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAAACuHX0B_8exHEeyvRwmSoxObmkHGHY9tFQ" target="_blank">here</a>.

Whirlpool Corporation and Foundation Committed to Building Thriving Communities Through Social Responsibility Efforts

<img alt="Sysco's Seaweedish™ Meatballs" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a660a502-ea21-4552-8b7c-faf58bdfdd64" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/sustainable-seafood_Sysco_072825_1.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1080" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sysco_sustainableseafood-syscoces-activity-7353438763361914880-zfqv/?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAAACuHX0B_8exHEeyvRwmSoxObmkHGHY9tFQ" target="_blank">Originally published on July 22, 2025 on LinkedIn.</a>

Big things are happening for sustainable seafood! 
<img alt="Sysco's Seaweedish™ Meatballs" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de8e483a-5d92-4f07-b230-bcf99e52814a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/sustainable-seafood_Sysco_072825_2.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1080" loading="lazy" /> 
Last week, Seaweedish™ Meatballs were served at the United Nations Headquarters in NYC, spotlighted at the UN Conference on Trade and Development as a product advancing key Sustainable Development Goals — from ocean health to gender equity.
<img alt="Sysco's Seaweedish™ Meatballs" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3c69935d-e09d-4748-8c16-f0b1c686dfe4" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/sustainable-seafood_Sysco_072825_3.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="1080" loading="lazy" /> 
This moment wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible partners at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/north-coast-seafoods/" target="_blank">North Coast Seafoods</a>. Thanks to their innovation and our national rollout through Sysco’s Cutting Edge Solutions program, this kelp-powered product is now making global waves.

About Sysco

Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing and distributing food products to restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments and other customers who prepare meals away from home. Its family of products also includes equipment and supplies for the foodservice and hospitality industries. With more than 76,000 colleagues, the company operates 340 distribution facilities worldwide and serves approximately 730,000 customer locations. For fiscal year 2024 that ended June 29, 2024, the company generated sales of more than $78 billion. Information about our Sustainability program, including Sysco’s 2023 Sustainability Report and 2023 Diversity, Equity &amp; Inclusion Report, can be found at <a href="https://www.sysco.com/" target="_blank">www.sysco.com</a>.

 For more information, visit <a href="https://www.sysco.com/" target="_blank">www.sysco.com</a> or connect with Sysco on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SyscoFoods" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/SyscoFoods</a>. For important news and information regarding Sysco, visit the Investor Relations section of the company’s Internet home page at <a href="https://investors.sysco.com/" target="_blank">investors.sysco.com</a>, which Sysco plans to use as a primary channel for publishing key information to its investors, some of which may contain material and previously non-public information. In addition, investors should continue to review our news releases and filings with the SEC. It is possible that the information we disclose through any of these channels of distribution could be deemed to be material information.

View original content <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sysco_sustainableseafood-syscoces-activity-7353438763361914880-zfqv/?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAAACuHX0B_8exHEeyvRwmSoxObmkHGHY9tFQ" target="_blank">here</a>.

Sysco Serves the United Nations With Sustainable Dishes

<img alt="people working at an event" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cf34e2d9-9e4e-4f70-b001-d6a0401a02eb" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/bill-paying-assistance-free-fanss_Entergy_073125.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="707" loading="lazy" />LITTLE ROCK, Ark., August 5, 2025 /CSRwire/ - Entergy Arkansas customers needing assistance paying their bills will be able to find help during several pop-up events taking place over the next few weeks, the utility announced today.

At these events Entergy representatives will be standing by to provide bill payment assistance and energy efficiency resources to help residential customers across the state.

Events were held recently in other areas of the state. Four upcoming are scheduled to serve residents in Central and Southeast Arkansas:

<table><tbody><tr><td>Thursday, July 3110 a.m. to 2 p.m.</td>
			<td>Watershed</td>
			<td>3701 Springer Blvd., Little Rock</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Saturday, Aug. 2 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.</td>
			<td>Saint Mark Baptist Church</td>
			<td>5722 W. 12th St., Little Rock</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Saturday, Aug. 2 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.</td>
			<td>Eudora Back to School Fun Fair</td>
			<td>Eudora City Park U.S. Hwy. 65 S.</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Saturday, Aug. 9 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.</td>
			<td>Dr. Marian G. Lacey K-8 Academy</td>
			<td>9417 Geyer Springs Rd., Little Rock</td>
		</tr></tbody></table>The event at Watershed will have free fans available for customers (while supplies last) to help keep their homes cooler during Arkansas’ sweltering summer temperatures. It will also include opportunities to meet with local and state organizations to connect qualifying customers with other financial assistance. Among the groups scheduled to be at Watershed are:

<ul><li>Arkansas Department of Human Services can help with Medicaid and other social services.</li>
	<li>Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance will be available to help with WIC (Women, Infants and Children) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Program) benefits.</li>
	<li>Central Arkansas Development Council will be helping attendees through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP which provides financial assistance for energy bills and other energy-related expenses.</li>
	<li>Legal Aid of Arkansas will be providing free legal services.</li>
</ul>Those attendees in need of financial assistance must have their social security card for verification purposes.

Additionally, Entergy offers several flexible payment options so customers can choose when, where and how they receive and pay their bills.

<ul><li><a href="https://www.myentergy.com/s/pickdate" target="_blank">Pick-A-Date</a> allows customers to pay their bills when it works best for them.</li>
	<li><a href="https://www.myentergy.com/s/levelbill" target="_blank">Level Billing</a> allows customers to “level out” seasonal energy use fluctuations, making their bills more consistent every month.</li>
	<li><a href="https://www.myentergy.com/s/paperfree" target="_blank">PaperFREE</a> billing allows customers to get their bills emailed as soon as they post and instant access to two years of billing history.</li>
	<li><a href="https://www.myentergy.com/s/autopay" target="_blank">AutoPay</a> allows customers to avoid late fees, writing checks and paying for postage by having bills automatically deducted from their bank accounts.</li>
</ul>Customers who may need additional payment options or those who need assistance understanding the solution that best suits their needs can visit with a representative at these pop-up events or call 1-800-ENTERGY.

About Entergy Arkansas 
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 735,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation. Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We’re also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at <a href="https://www.entergyarkansas.com/" target="_blank">entergyarkansas.com</a> and connect with <a href="https://www.entergy.com/social" target="_blank">@EntergyARK </a>on social media.

-30-

<a href="https://www.entergy.com/news/media-kit" target="_blank">Download a high-resolution Entergy logo here</a>

Media inquiries: 
L. Lamor Williams <a href="mailto:lwill51@entergy.com" target="_blank">lwill51@entergy.com</a> 
501-377-3525

View original content <a href="https://www.entergy.com/news/at-pop-up-events-entergy-arkansas-customers-can-get-bill-paying-assistance-free-fans-to-cool-homes" target="_blank">here</a>.

At Pop-Up Events, Entergy Arkansas Customers Can Get Bill Paying Assistance, Free Fans To Cool Homes

<img alt="Group of people doing aerobic exercise." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="528810ed-ec02-4181-89fa-658b891ee9a2" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Accident%20Recovery_Aflac_7.17.25A.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="627" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://newsroom.aflac.com/Why-taking-care-of-the-body-and-mind-after-an-accident-is-important" target="_blank">Originally published on Aflac Newsroom</a>

Recovery after a health scare doesn’t end once the body heals.

Mental and physical health are closely tied together, and after an unexpected accident, seeking medical care — whether it’s a simple checkup or attending physical therapy — following a plan after an accident is an important first step to feeling better.

Fortunately, there are many opportunities to look after mental health, as well. Some ways are not only easy, but fun! No matter what, the tips below can help people take control of their recovery journey, both in terms of their physical health and their mental well-being.

Talk to a therapist or a licensed professional. Thoughts and feelings can be complicated following an accident or a diagnosis. Sharing them with a licensed professional can help untangle them and even smooth them out. Finding a new path after a life-changing medical event might be difficult at first, but a therapist could help pave the way.

Make sure to get plenty of quality sleep. Eight hours of shut-eye can have a positive impact on the body as well as the mind. Try establishing a routine, like going to bed at the same time each night and getting up at the same time in the morning. Get ready for sleep by turning down the lights, making the room cool and comfortable, and minimizing noise. Then prepare to count some sheep.

Connect with people, like family and friends, or others in the community. Reaching out to others isn’t always easy, but it can be beneficial to improving mental health. Send a text to a loved one — start a conversation or set up a time to grab lunch together. Or, if health permits, look into events that are happening nearby, like a festival or movie night.

Start a hobby or another relaxing activity. Taking personal time during a busy, stressful period in life can help maintain good mental health. Use that time to nurture a hobby or enjoy a calming activity, like crochet or yoga. Learning an entirely new hobby can also be a way to center the mind and focus on something fun.

Understand how supplemental insurance can help. Be familiar with your supplemental insurance policy. Added peace of mind can come from knowing what is covered and what isn’t after an accident or hospital visit. And when there’s peace of mind, mental health takes a positive step forward.

To learn more about the benefits of supplemental insurance, for both physical and mental health, visit <a href="https://www.aflac.com/prospecting/?utm_source=bing&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=aflac_theo_prospecting_bing_branded_coordinated_national&amp;utm_term=aflac&amp;utm_content=aflac_exact_coordinated&amp;msclkid=f03d17f7ffe0152e6eee7ff6ff405230" target="_blank">Aflac.com</a>.

Coverage is underwritten by Aflac. In New York, coverage is underwritten by Aflac New York.

WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2500305 
EXP: 05/26

Why Taking Care of the Body — and Mind — After an Accident Is Important

<img alt="FR 650 harvester" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1efff070-64f8-4881-85e0-0b88af58ee33" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/new-holland-introduces-renewed-fr-650_CNH_073125A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.cnh.com/" target="_blank">CNH</a> brand, <a href="https://agriculture.newholland.com/en-us/nar" target="_blank">New Holland</a>, reinforced its presence in the hay and forage segment at the 137th edition of Expo Rural with the revamped FR 650 harvester, developed to deliver the highest productivity, quality and operational efficiency on the market.

In line with the brand's growing commitment in this segment, the new FR 650 offers high production capacity, greater operator comfort, the best precision agriculture technology and a renewed and modern design.
<img alt="FR 650 harvester" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="52bf1875-6b6f-43ab-947a-57dd78f17cc2" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/new-holland-introduces-renewed-fr-650_CNH_073125Badj.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="1161" loading="lazy" />One of the main features of the FR 650 is its brand new FPT Industrial Cursor 16 Tier 2 engine, which delivers 650 HP. This new engine, which allows better performance with lower fuel consumption, is associated with the renowned Power Cruise system and the new ECO engine management mode, which allow greater operational efficiency, delivering the highest available capacity at all times.

Another highlight of the new FR 650 is the renewed, more spacious and soundproofed cab, which adds a new 12.1" IntelliView IV monitor and updated commands. In this way, it offers a superior on-board experience, thanks to a complete and renewed equipment that allows the operator to work in a comfortable space during long working days.

New Holland Introduces the Renewed FR 650 With Greater Efficiency, Lower Consumption and More Comfort for the Operator

<img alt="In a display of artistic innovation and athletic homage, 3M unveiled &quot;Shimmering Victory,” a captivating art installation honoring the 2024 3M Open Champion, Jhonattan Vegas. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3f02ccf5-a1f9-4dcf-a90d-a19864cd101c" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Shimmering%20Victory_3M_8.5.25A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="705" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://news.3m.com/3M-unveils-Shimmering-Victory-in-honor-of-2024-3M-Open-champion-Jhonattan-Vegas" target="_blank">Originally published on 3M News Center</a>

In a display of artistic innovation and athletic homage, 3M unveiled "Shimmering Victory,” a captivating art installation honoring the 2024 3M Open Champion, Jhonattan Vegas.

Created by the <a href="https://jimmylongoria.com/contact/" target="_blank">renowned Minnesota artist Jimmy Longoria</a>, this unique piece seamlessly blends the worlds of sport and art, capturing the essence of Vegas's triumph.

Longoria, known for his bold style and community-driven work, used scrap 3M materials to create "Shimmering Victory," including 3M FASARA™ Glass Finishes, 3M Dichroic Glass Finishes, and 3M Scotchlite™ Reflective Film. The upcycled result is a vibrant silhouette that shifts and gleams with every change in perspective, beautifully capturing the movement, energy and brilliance of Vegas's championship victory.

Vegas, the Venezuelan golf sensation, clinched the 2024 3M Open title after a masterful performance, solidifying his status as a presence on the PGA Tour and marking a significant milestone in his career. "Shimmering Victory" stands as a vibrant tribute to his achievement and the inspiration he provides both on and off the course.

"The beauty of this artwork lies in its dynamic nature. The color transforms as you move and view it from different angles, which is a testament to the 3M materials used," explained Longoria. "It's all about perspective, a feature made possible by the innovative use of 3M FASARA Glass Finishes, 3M Dichroic Glass Finishes, and 3M Scotchlite™ Reflective Film."

Longoria is also the founder of <a href="https://mentoringpeace.org/" target="_blank">Mentoring Peace Through Art</a>, an initiative that champions the transformative power of creativity to connect and uplift communities.

His influential artwork is featured in prominent collections nationwide, including those of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

In a display of artistic innovation and athletic homage, 3M unveiled "Shimmering Victory,” a captivating art installation honoring the 2024 3M Open Champion, Jhonattan Vegas.

3M Unveils “Shimmering Victory” in Honor of 2024 3M Open Champion Jhonattan Vegas

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="Sophia Harvey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d38bba9-47ea-4e22-85e6-b11edf03f902" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/open-door_REGIONS-BANK_072825A.png" width="640" height="532" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Photo taken by Kimberly Moore.</figcaption></figure>By Kim Borges

“People ask me, ‘How do you let them go?’ But in my mind, I know they’re not there to stay.”

Each time Sophia Harvey welcomes a foster child into her home, she prays for the same positive outcome: family reunification.

Harvey, a Commercial Banking relationship specialist with Regions, has fostered children for nine years with <a href="https://youthvillages.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Youth Villages</a>, a nonprofit helping children with emotional and behavioral challenges and their families live successfully.

“You hear some horrible stories about things children have gone through like losing a parent,” she said. “Stability is what I try to provide for them. They want to be part of a family. At first, a lot of children might not think they like structure, but we all need structure. And they then realize that’s love.”

<blockquote>
At first, a lot of children might not think they like structure, but we all need structure. And they then realize that’s love. Sophia Harvey, Commercial Banking relationship specialist with Regions
</blockquote>

Harvey began exploring foster parenting around the time her son turned 30. It’s fair to say it wasn’t something previously on her radar.

“If someone had asked me if I’d be doing this years ago, I’d have told them, ‘You must be out of your mind,’” she said.

But as she learned more about fostering, Harvey’s heartstrings overrode any kind of logic.

“I told the Lord, ‘You blessed me to be able to take care of my son,’ and I got on this mission,” she said. “I went through the interviews and took all the classes to get my certification.”

The decision made Harvey one of <a href="https://www.fosterva.org/blog/how-many-foster-families-are-there-in-the-usa-want-to-know#:~:text=Let&amp;apos;s%20bring%20it%20back%20to,school%20age%20to%20young%20adults." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">an estimated 200,000-plus foster parents in the U.S</a>., a number that’s declined in recent years while the need has steadily increased.

Harvey is the first to tell you the role isn’t always easy.

“It can be very challenging,” she said. “When you bring a total stranger into your home, they don’t know you and you don’t know them. And you really don’t know a person until they live with you.”

Harvey typically has children live with her for shorter periods ranging anywhere from one week to 18 months. She focuses on introducing youth to new experiences across Memphis, Tennessee, and beyond while in her care.

“We go to the nursing home at least once a month to visit with residents,” she said. “We also go out into the neighborhood and help feed people. I try to be an example for them.”

Along with serving others, Harvey also makes having fun a priority.

“I take them shopping all the time,” she said. “I had one young lady who had never been on a train before, and another who had never been on a plane before. We went to Disney World.”

Local activities are part of the mix, too, thanks to fellow foster parent Brenda Brown. The two, who met seven years ago during a class, bring their children together for social events at church, painting parties and more.

Harvey and Brown turn to one another for advice and lean on each other as well.

“A lot of times Brenda is my sounding board,” said Harvey. “She’s my support person; someone I can talk to.”

“We work together, solve problems and just help each other out,” added Brown, who provides longer-term care and has legally adopted seven children in the 30-plus years she’s been a foster parent. “Sophia will lift you up with a scripture or prayer, especially if you’re going through anything. She has a heart of gold. She’ll give you anything you need.”

For children living with Harvey, that includes the comforts of having their own room with a large bed, sofa and TV – plus something far more.

“I focus on providing a safe haven where children are fed and loved for the time they’re with me,” she said. “A place they know someone truly loves them and cares about their well-being.”

<blockquote>
I would encourage anyone who has the time, love and patience to do it. Sophia Harvey
</blockquote>

While children may leave Harvey’s home, they never leave her heart.
<img alt="Sophia and a child wearing sparkly glasses" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d0ebf63-80dc-4bbf-8dc8-63995c195938" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/open-door_REGIONS-BANK_072825B.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="854" loading="lazy" />“The first child I fostered called me about five years later and that really touched me,” she said. “They become your family. When they go home, I miss them terribly. You want them to do well.”

For those considering becoming a foster parent, what insights would Harvey share?

“I would encourage anyone who has the time, love and patience to do it,” she said. “Fostering is so rewarding but it is hard work. I give it 110 percent; I have a passion for it, I really do. I get choked up talking about it because all children deserve to be loved.”

Each time Sophia Harvey welcomes a foster child into her home, she prays for the same positive outcome: family reunification.

An Open Door

Shamim Okolloh’s son, Liam, knew he wanted to be an author ever since he devoured the Harry Potter series as an eight-year-old. So when her younger daughter, Ella, declared in first grade that she wanted to be a commercial banker when she grew up, it sparked a powerful idea.

Latest

3M Unveils “Shimmering Victory” in Honor of 2024 3M Open Champion Jhonattan Vegas

An Open Door

Doctor, YouTuber or Banker? Mom, Son Write About Growing Up To Work in Banking

Franklin Templeton Celebrates Global Volunteerism During 19th Annual Impact Days

Succession Planning: A Board’s Blueprint for Stability

Science in Action: Kenvue Research Driving Real-Life Solutions

Articles

Doctor, YouTuber or Banker? Mom, Son Write About Growing Up To Work in Banking

Whirlpool Corporation and Foundation Committed to Building Thriving Communities Through Social Responsibility Efforts

Sysco Serves the United Nations With Sustainable Dishes

At Pop-Up Events, Entergy Arkansas Customers Can Get Bill Paying Assistance, Free Fans To Cool Homes

Why Taking Care of the Body — and Mind — After an Accident Is Important

New Holland Introduces the Renewed FR 650 With Greater Efficiency, Lower Consumption and More Comfort for the Operator