Benevity

MAXIMUS

Kenvue

Benevity Releases First Enterprise Impact Platform To Solve CSR and Social Impact’s Biggest Challenges

Maximus To Help Build Cyber Readiness in High School Students

Everyday Care in Action: Thousands of Kenvue Employees Come Together Across 21 Markets To Help Advance Healthier Communities

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="319f530f-b5c7-4f7f-a1ad-8281609ae999" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/mini-golf-destination-grew-digital-tools-and-grit_Verizon_052825.jpg" width="640" height="690" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>LaNeta and Doug Roth turned family entertainment into a community investment. Photo credit: Tom Sanders</figcaption></figure><a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/mini-golf-destination-grew-digital-tools-and-grit" target="_blank">Verizon</a>

When LaNeta and Doug Roth opened <a href="https://www.scarystrokes.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Scary Strokes</a>, an 11,000-square-foot black light mini golf course and arcade, they wanted to bring a little family vacation magic to their hometown of Waldorf, Maryland. They were novices to the family entertainment industry, but it wasn’t their first time investing in their community.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72167fb9-211a-4744-bfba-a7b2a4bb033f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/mini-golf-destination-grew-digital-tools-and-grit2_Verizon_052825.jpeg" width="640" height="393" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Scary Strokes’ immersive course incorporates haunted houses, cemeteries and even ancient Egypt in its uniquely crafted adventure. Photo credit: Tom Sanders</figcaption></figure>Years earlier, after moving to a sleepy town in Maryland with their young children, they found that the nearest kid-friendly activities were more than an hour’s drive away. So the Roths created a youth flag football league that eventually became the largest in the state. “At one time, we were the third largest in the world,” says LaNeta. “We were at maximum capacity at 500 kids. That [shows] how many kids were looking for something to do in our area.”

As their children grew older, the Roths wanted to create something they could still do as a family and turned their focus from youth sports to all-ages entertainment. The question the couple asked themselves was, “What is that one thing that people can do all the way to age 99?” They recalled how much fun they had as a family playing miniature golf during vacations, especially at night time. The wheels started turning on how they could bring the experience to their town.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="364e5fc0-804c-4d73-a552-6c75f57c4aef" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/mini-golf-destination-grew-digital-tools-and-grit3_Verizon_052825.jpeg" width="640" height="393" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Against a soundtrack of spooky music hits, resident ghouls greet guests along the course. Photo credit: Tom Sanders</figcaption></figure>Doug, a former specialized data technician in the U.S. armed forces, and LaNeta, a marketing and human resources professional, put their heads together to draft a business plan. And after a year researching community arcades and entertainment centers, the Roths opened Scary Strokes in 2017. It became a local favorite, earning accolades as a top family entertainment center.

But despite positive word of mouth, visibility remained a major hurdle. Tucked away in an industrial park with no street-facing signage, Scary Strokes was easy for potential customers to miss. And the Roths were still navigating a learning curve as new entrepreneurs. Startup costs came directly out of their personal savings. But they were ready for the challenge. “Anything good in life isn’t easy; you have to know that going in,” says LaNeta.

A hefty investment in a billboard ad gave them their first big influx of customers, but the difficulty of finding new customers in an increasingly digital world led LaNeta to the free courses and learning tools of <a href="https://digitalready.verizonwireless.com/?utm_source=verizon-csr&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=digital-ready_verizon-csr_05142025_smb-0053&amp;utm_content=ScaryStrokes" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Verizon Small Business Digital Ready</a>. “I needed to know more about social media,” says LaNeta, who knew that online platforms were driving business. “That is where I needed to invest.” She launched a new social media account and grew it from the ground up, earning 10 times the average views for new accounts.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ed6aa0a5-a5b9-4475-9de7-73b0529a3439" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/mini-golf-destination-grew-digital-tools-and-grit4_Verizon_052825.jpeg" width="640" height="393" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Scary Strokes also hosts weekly virtual reality gaming contests for cash prizes up to $400. Photo credit: Tom Sanders</figcaption></figure>LaNeta says that Digital Ready’s live events are a unique program benefit. She appreciated the opportunity to learn from both the instructors and the fellow small business owners taking part in the events. “What I really liked was that the instructors were very open, honest and collaborative. There were people from all different generations, ages, races, salaries, all different walks of life,” says LaNeta. “You’re hearing struggles as well as [successes]. We may not be in the same industry at all, but I’m hearing what it is that’s working for other people.”

In 2024, the Roths were also awarded a $10,000 grant through the Digital Ready program, which enabled them to make much-needed repairs to Scary Strokes’ expansive facility. “The lights are not cheap since they are blacklight and LED,” LaNeta explains.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b934b819-25f3-47fe-87f4-fb946f40d36b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/mini-golf-destination-grew-digital-tools-and-grit5_Verizon_052825.jpeg" width="640" height="393" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Guests can redeem points won at the video game arcade for prizes at the end of a visit. Photo credit: Tom Sanders</figcaption></figure>Like many small business owners, the Roths are considering growth strategies during a challenging economic time. Having expanded their arcade from 17 games to more than 40, they are exploring new locations that would enable them to continue growing and allow for more exterior signage. “Location is everything,” says LaNeta.

In the meantime, they continue to find success in holding to their motto for Scary Strokes, “Every experience matters,” and keeping their facility best-in-class, from cleanliness to customer service. For LaNeta, that translates to forging a memorable brand experience for customers. “You want to make sure people know who you are from the minute they walk through the door,” she says.

She also stresses the importance of continual learning: reading books, researching trends and tapping into the free offerings from the Digital Ready program. “I recommend [Digital Ready] to a lot of people,” says LaNeta. “Dive in and see what you’re wanting to look for. What is going to resonate with you? Where is it you want the most help? You can pick and choose the classes that will be beneficial to you.”

And more importantly, leveraging the Digital Ready community as a resource can be especially fortifying in navigating uncertainty. “It helps young entrepreneurs, as well as people who are older, understand that you’re not alone; other people are also having these [same] challenges,” LaNeta says.

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready is part of Verizon’s goal to support 1 million small businesses by 2030 with free resources to help them succeed. To sign up, visit <a href="https://digitalready.verizonwireless.com/?utm_source=verizon-csr&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=digital-ready_verizon-csr_05142025_smb-0053&amp;utm_content=ScaryStrokes" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Verizon Small Business Digital Ready</a>. Visit <a href="http://citizenverizon.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">CitizenVerizon.com</a> to learn more about the company’s responsible business efforts. An individual user's experience may vary and results are not guaranteed.

This Mini Golf Destination Grew With Digital Tools and Grit

<img alt="drawing of data coming from a cloud" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bca927f5-2aa7-42f7-b824-3a498da27ccf" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/energy-grid-ai-cybersecurity_Keysight_050725.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />As we move into May, my garden in Austin Texas is at its best, the Japanese Maple is flourishing, and the roses and lantana are giving pops of color. The garden benefits from the mild temperatures and gentler spring conditions to allow plants to establish strong roots before the summer heat arrives.

I find myself wondering if there’s an AI tool that would help me keep some of my more challenging plants alive before the weather machine turns to “broil”. This takes me back to my day job, which includes working with energy grid operators to help build the strong roots of cyber security.

April has been an eventful month for the world’s energy grids, let’s look at some of the key developments.

In the U.S., the House Committee on Energy and Commerce heard from former Google CEO Eric Schmidt about the impact and reliance of AI on the energy grid. Schmidt told Congress “Many people project demand for our industry will go from 3 percent to 9 percent of total generation, an additional 29 gigawatts by 2027 and 67 more gigawatts by 2030, this is at a scale I have never seen in my life in terms of energy planning.”

“If China comes to superintelligence first, it changes the dynamic of power globally, in ways that we have no way of understanding or predicting.”

AI’s dependence on the energy grid is clear and if the US cannot keep up with power needs, other countries like China could gain a competitive edge. The energy requirements of data centers are predicted to skyrocket, especially with more advanced and power-hungry systems on the way. The energy grid is being stretched beyond its limits and AI could push up energy prices and create shortages. The energy grid is essential to powering the boom in AI and makes it a prime target for threat actors seeking to destabilize AI leadership or dependent critical systems.

In April we also saw massive blackouts across Spain, Portugal and parts of France that halted public transportation, banking cashpoints and internet connectivity, in one of Europe's biggest ever power system collapses. Spain, Europe’s fourth-largest economy had no electricity, Red Eléctrica de España, the grid operator, is working to figure out what led to this worst-case scenario, a system completely devoid of energy. Whatever the cause, it is an admonitory tale of the importance of a resilient energy grid.

Although some have ruled out cyberattacks as the cause of the recent blackouts, attacks in the sector are growing. Energy systems are increasingly dependent on IT at every stage of the supply chain-generation, transmission, and distribution- all of which must be protected. The need to strengthen grid security has become more urgent since the invasion of Ukraine.

Over the course of a series of blogs we will explore how Keysight is helping grid operators and manufacturers rise to the challenge of improving power generation and cybersecurity while maintaining agility and regulatory compliance. We will discuss the latest trends and how operators can stay ahead of attackers. You will see coverage of IoT, OT and device security, cloud, and network security, as well as the importance of resilient time in the energy grid.

In today’s blog we will focus on the increasing susceptibility of AI to the hidden threats in IoT/OT and devices in the energy sector.

AI’s demand for electricity

The world’s data centers are using ever more electricity, <a href="https://www.iea.org/reports/electricity-2024" target="_blank">the International Energy Agency</a> (IEA) estimates that global electricity usage by data centers will double in just four years, increasing from 460 terawatt hours of electricity in 2022 to 1,000 terawatt hours annually by 2026. This demand is roughly equivalent to the total electricity consumption of Japan. With governments around the world announcing multi-billion-dollar investments in AI, data center electricity consumption is expected to grow at a rapid pace as AI applications begin to penetrate the market.

<a href="https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/AI-poised-to-drive-160-increase-in-power-demand" target="_blank">Goldman Sachs Research</a> estimates that data center power demand will grow by 160% by 2030. Currently, data centers globally consume 1-2% of overall power, but this percentage will likely double to 3-4% by the end of the decade. The overall increase in data center power consumption from AI is expected to be roughly 200TWh/year between 2023 and 2028, with AI representing about 19% of total datacenter power demand.

This heightens the dependence as well as the risk profile of the energy systems that support the AI datacenters and applications, making them targets for cyberattack.

It is also worth highlighting the additional dependency on water consumption. Data centers use fresh mains water, rather than surface water, so that the pipes, pumps, and heat exchangers used to cool racks of servers do not get clogged up with contaminants. Microsoft's global water use soared by 34% while it was developing its initial AI tools, and a data center cluster in Iowa used 6% of the district's water supply in one month during the training of OpenAI's GPT-4. Therefore, cyber-attacks impacting water supply to the datacenter operations may also be of concern.

The energy sector is a major target for cyberattack

The energy grid faces persistent threats from cyber criminals and hostile states such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea exploiting ransomware, AI, and advanced intrusion tools. State-linked cyber groups increasingly target industrial control systems pivotal to energy infrastructure. There are major areas of concern in the energy supply chain, where vulnerabilities exist in interconnected systems, for example GNSS and GPS for timing, and the targeting of subsea cables.

In 2021 the Colonial Pipeline Ransomware attack disabled its IT computer systems resulting in fuel shortages and panic buying in affected states. In 2022 a Russian attack on satellites knocked out communications and control of thousands of wind turbines in Ukraine. In 2023 the China-linked group, RedEcho, attacked India’s power sector during border tension.

According to the <a href="https://www.eisac.com/s/resources" target="_blank">E-ISAC</a>, Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center, the nation state actors targeting the US energy sector in 2024 included Volt Typhoon, Salt Typhoon, Lemon Sandstorm/UNC757, APT 29 – Midnight Blizzard and GRU Unit 29155.

Last year Volt Typhoon, a China state-sponsored threat actor, targeted energy, transportation, and water sectors in the US and Canada. Its campaigns affected industrial sectors including Electricity Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution. Chinese hackers were active in Massachusetts’ Littleton Electric Light &amp; Water Departments (LELWD) for over <a href="https://www.securityweek.com/chinas-volt-typhoon-hackers-dwelled-in-us-electric-grid-for-300-days/" target="_blank">300 days without detection</a>.

We have seen CyberArmyofRussia_Reborn (CARR) confirm attacks on US water and energy facilities. Hunt3r Kill3rs targeted internet exposed OT/ICS devices in the US, Europe, and Israel. And just in the last couple of days I saw a new <a href="https://www.securityweek.com/canadian-electric-utility-hit-by-cyberattack/" target="_blank">headline about a cyberattack</a> against a Canadian operator, Nova Scotia Power.

In addition to the IT-focused attacks such as Colonial Pipeline which have downstream impacts on industrial control systems (ICS), there has also been an increase in ICS-targeting malware intentionally designed for adverse effects on operational technology (OT) environments. FrostyGoop Malware is an ICS-specific malware tracked by Dragos. It interacts with ICS devices over Modbus TCP/502, a standard ICS protocol used worldwide. It is undetectable by common antivirus software and was used in Ukraine heating outages in 2024.

Legislation and proactive cyber security testing

Laws like the Network and Information Systems (NIS) Regulations and EO 13636 require enhanced resilience in critical sectors, including energy. The cyberattacks in the US and elsewhere are why regulators like Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) are updating their requirements, to ensure power companies are preparing for the latest threats. FERC has begun to take steps to increase stricter cyber security controls for grid and power providers. <a href="https://www.ferc.gov/media/e-1-rm22-3-000" target="_blank">FERC 887</a> and <a href="https://www.nerc.com/pa/Stand/Reliability%20Standards/CIP-003-9.pdf" target="_blank">NERC CIP 003-9</a> are new regulations that impose stricter requirements on electric utilities for internal network security monitoring and remote access.

The costs of non-compliance can be significant. Back in 2019 NERC fined Duke Energy $10 million for cybersecurity failings relating to the CIP (critical infrastructure protection) compliance program.

How Keysight can help

With cyberattacks in the energy sector on the rise it is crucial to implement proactive security measures to safeguard your infrastructure and mitigate potential risks. It is important to validate new devices, networks, application workloads and traffic mixes. Our security testing solutions replicate your environment and support a wide range of protocols and applications with real-world test scenarios.

Keysight can help you to validate and refine your security posture, improving resilience to cyberattacks and ensuring adherence to cyber security requirements. To safeguard your infrastructure Keysight helps you in several ways including awareness and training, configuration management, incident response, risk assessment, security assessment, access control, identification, and authentication, as well as system and communications protection.

Let us explore further how Keysight can help you with device and IoT security.

Spotlight: Device and IoT security in the energy sector

As the energy sector becomes increasingly connected, communications networks will include both terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks which open up additional attack vectors. Back in 2022, Starlink terminals were hacked using voltage fault injection and side channel attacks to gain access to the Starlink network.

Keysight can conduct security assessments of devices connected to the energy grid, including validation of Smart Meters to the relevant Common Criteria Protection Profile. We analyze the hardware (debug and test interfaces and memories), software design, secure boot process, OS (Linux, Android, RTOS), as well as application security and perform targeted reviews to understand the security of your device. We can also analyze the security of the chipsets by considering logical, fault injection and side-channel threats, as well as the immutable firmware on the chips and the overall architecture.

Upgrades, especially of production OT devices, can be very expensive. Do you really want to take a substation down because you need to upgrade the firmware to fix a security flaw? This is why it is so important to do extensive pre-deployment testing of smart inverters, relays, phasors, and other operational devices so you can fix as many problems as possible early. It is also important to maintain an SBOM of deployed devices so that you can get immediate notification if a vulnerability is discovered in a library utilized in a device’s firmware so that it can be remedied or mitigated before hackers can exploit it.

With a long history in the energy sector, Keysight is dedicated to safeguarding critical national energy systems. You can read more about how we keep energy grids safe on our <a href="https://www.keysight.com/us/en/industries/grid-and-energy.html" target="_blank">Grid Modernization</a> page.

Keysight is your partner for energy cyber security.

Establishing Strong Roots of Grid Security for the Sustainable Growth of AI

<img alt="Entergy Louisiana President and CEO Phillip May, alongside Entergy New Orleans President and CEO Deanna Rodriguez, presented a $35,000 grant to the College Fund and the Chief of the United Houma Nation." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a4dc71d-f4a7-46b0-bf97-c9ef598fc344" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tribal-Scholarship-1_Entergy_52225.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />Recently at the New Orleans Jazz &amp; Heritage Festival, Entergy proudly continued its partnership with the American Indian College Fund, or the College Fund, by announcing a significant grant aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for Native American students. 2025 marks the 11th year of this collaboration. Entergy's support has been essential in helping Native American students pursue impactful careers and thrive as influential leaders in their communities.

During the festival, Entergy Louisiana President and CEO Phillip May, alongside Entergy New Orleans President and CEO Deanna Rodriguez, presented a $35,000 grant to the College Fund and the Chief of the United Houma Nation. This investment is set to provide scholarships for students as they embark on their academic journeys, empowering them to create positive change within their communities.
<img alt="Tribal dancers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4cf90ee6-6acb-455d-95ac-fecba3f7bfb8" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tribal-Scholarship-2_Entergy_52225.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />“Our decade-long partnership with the American Indian College Fund underscores our commitment to empowering Native American communities,” said May. “It’s a meaningful part of our Louisiana 100 plan, which prioritizes education, opportunity and long-term investment.”

“Education is a powerful tool for transformation—not just for individuals, but entire communities,” said Rodriguez. “Entergy New Orleans is committed to helping our youth overcome educational barriers and reach their full potential. We are proud to partner with the American Indian College Fund and the United Houma Nation to support the next generation of leaders and change-makers.”
<img alt="4 people with a large check" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c683019-0008-44ad-9f0d-dc5e38ac83ef" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tribal-Scholarship-3_Entergy_52225.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />Since the inception of this partnership in 2015, Entergy has contributed over $350,000 in scholarships, positively impacting more than 160 students. Native American individuals remain among the most underrepresented groups in higher education, with a bachelor’s degree attainment rate of less than half the national average.

Every year, the College Fund is a beacon of support for more than 5,000 students, helping them navigate their educational paths and achieve their degrees. The organization aims for a graduation rate of 60% for all scholars by 2025 and has awarded more than 160,000 scholarships, totaling over $349 million since its founding in 1989.
<img alt="Tribal dance" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9bfcf52e-acf3-44d7-a501-10e34820b233" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tribal-Scholarship-4_Entergy_52225.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />Entergy's mission, "We Power Life," extends beyond the delivery of essential energy services. We are committed to fostering the growth and well-being of the communities we serve through vital programs and initiatives. By investing in philanthropic efforts, encouraging volunteerism, supporting our low-income customers, and driving economic development initiatives, Entergy is dedicated to nurturing healthy, educated, environmentally sustainable, and thriving communities. Discover more about our <a href="https://www.entergy.com/csr/" target="_blank">community initiatives here</a>.

Entergy’s Tribal Scholarship Provides Educational Opportunities for Native American Students

<img alt="2024 Corporate Sustainability Report cover with image of forest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="09077877-1443-4f21-8e6e-0aa4dffb93da" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/2024-corporate-responsibility-report_Potlatchdeltic_052125.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="703" loading="lazy" />PotlatchDeltic has released its 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report. This report highlights the Company’s 2024 corporate responsibility impacts and accomplishments.

“Corporate responsibility is integral to our strategy and embedded within PotlatchDeltic’s business,” said Eric Cremers, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report illustrates just some of the accomplishments we have made in our four pillars: Forests, Planet, People, and Performance. I’m proud of our impact, and I look forward to what we will accomplish in 2025 as we responsibly manage our forests, strive for excellence within our business, work together with our people, and make a difference in our communities,” stated Mr. Cremers.

The report can be found in the Investors and Corporate Responsibility sections of our website at <a href="https://www.potlatchdeltic.com/" target="_blank">www.potlatchdeltic.com</a> and is supported by additional information and data on our website or in our other published reports.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as “look forward,” “strive,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained in this press release due to factors such as: changes in our priorities as well as changes in the priorities of our customers and suppliers; the accuracy of our estimates and assumptions; acquisitions and divestitures; the future effect of legislation, rulemaking, changes in governmental interpretation of existing law, and changes in policy or best management practices; natural or human causes beyond our control; our ability to meet our corporate responsibility goals and commitments and succeed with our initiatives and projects, including our solar real estate option contracts and natural climate solutions projects; the availability of funding for our initiatives and projects; and global economic, business, political, and climate conditions. These are only some of the factors that may affect the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. For further information regarding risks and uncertainties associated with our business, please refer to our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, our 2025 Proxy Statement, and our 2025 Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, which can be obtained at our website, <a href="https://www.potlatchdeltic.com/" target="_blank">www.potlatchdeltic.com</a>. The forward-looking statements in this press release are intended to be subject to the safe harbor protection provided by federal securities laws. Except as required under applicable law, we do not intend to issue updates concerning any future revisions of our views to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

PotlatchDeltic Releases 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0563ef3f-e9dd-4249-9650-e0b79a50c810" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/DSC09419_Direct-Relief_052325.jpeg" width="640" height="720" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Collapsed buildings following the 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake left many in urgent need of medical care. People with kidney conditions are especially vulnerable during earthquakes due to crush injuries and disrupted access to dialysis and essential medications. (Credit: Direct Relief)  </figcaption></figure>May 23, 2025 /CSRwire/ - An international alliance of humanitarian and medical organizations is announcing the launch of a new initiative to protect kidney and dialysis patients in crisis settings around the world.

The Global Humanitarian Kidney Support Initiative—a collaboration among <a href="https://www.directrelief.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Direct Relief</a>, the <a href="https://www.asn-online.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">American Society of Nephrology</a> (ASN), the <a href="https://www.era-online.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">European Renal Association</a> (ERA), and the <a href="https://www.theisn.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">International Society of Nephrology</a> (ISN)—aims to ensure continuity of care for people with serious kidney conditions during disasters, conflicts, and in regions where access to essential health services is limited.

The initiative brings together global clinical expertise in nephrology with on-the-ground experience in humanitarian logistics to help sustain kidney care when health systems are disrupted or overwhelmed.

Kidney patients—particularly those receiving dialysis or post-transplant care requiring essential medications—are especially vulnerable in emergencies. Regular access to treatment is essential for survival, and any interruption can quickly become life-threatening. The initiative seeks to address that risk through coordinated action, including emergency support for clinics and hospitals, provision of essential medicines and supplies, and training for healthcare workers operating under strained conditions.

“Kidney patients rely on consistent, life-sustaining treatment, which can be difficult to maintain when disaster strikes,” said Alycia Clark, Chief Pharmacist at Direct Relief. “This collaboration helps ensure continuity of care by equipping health facilities with the products, training, and coordination required to deliver treatment safely and effectively—even under the most challenging conditions.”

The partner organizations have previously worked together during major emergencies in the United States, Ukraine, Sudan, and other regions. The launch of this initiative builds on those efforts and establishes a formal structure to improve speed, coordination, and scale in future responses.

“This initiative reflects how much more can be accomplished when organizations combine strengths with a shared commitment to meeting urgent medical needs,” said Amy Weaver, CEO of Direct Relief. “By uniting nephrology leaders with expertise in humanitarian operations, this collaboration creates a clear path for delivering kidney care where it’s most at risk of falling through the cracks.”

In addition to emergency response, the Global Humanitarian Kidney Support Initiative aims to contribute to long-term improvements in care by strengthening infrastructure in low- and middle-income countries, expanding clinical education, and advancing patient awareness and disease prevention strategies. Direct Relief will manage medical supply logistics and operational support, while ASN, ERA, and ISN will lead regional efforts through their professional networks and national society partners.

“ASN is thrilled to be part of this new collaboration with ERA, ISN and Direct Relief. Together, we will be able to provide support to patients and their caregivers in regions impacted by both natural and human-influenced events and stretch each organization's resources further. The support of corporate and foundation sponsors will be instrumental in ensuring that people living with kidney diseases have the best chance to thrive even in extreme circumstances”, said Jeffrey Silberzweig, MD, Chair, ASN’s Humanitarian Kidney Support Program

“Patients with kidney diseases represent one of the most vulnerable groups in disaster settings since their survival depends on functional infrastructure, access to advanced technology and experienced personnel within days (if not hours),” said Professor Mehmet Şükrü Sever, Chair of ERA’s Kidney Relief in Disasters Task Force. The Global Humanitarian Kidney Support Initiative can contribute to life-saving efforts by promoting clinical education, enhancing patient awareness and disease prevention strategies and delivering material support when most needed.

“Kidney patients in many parts of the world already have fragile access to care. When disaster strikes, the risk of interruption or disruption of needed care becomes rapidly acute. This initiative strengthens collaboration between professional renal societies and humanitarian organizations, allowing the ISN to contribute its expertise and help connect local providers with urgently needed support”, stated Prof. Ali Abu-Alfa, Chair, ISN Renal Disaster Preparedness Working Group.

Looking ahead, the initiative aims to expand its reach and impact by engaging pharmaceutical and medical device companies, philanthropic foundations, and global health partners to close critical gaps in care and strengthen long-term support for people living with kidney disease—especially in regions where treatment access remains fragile.

###

About ASN

Since 1966, ASN has been leading the fight to prevent, treat, and cure kidney diseases throughout the world by educating health professionals and scientists, advancing research and innovation, communicating new knowledge and advocating for the highest quality care for patients. ASN has nearly 22,000 members representing 141 countries. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.asn-online.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">www.asn-online.org</a> and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AmericanSocietyofNephrology/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/asnkidney" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">X</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-society-of-nephrology" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/asnkidney/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Instagram</a>

About Direct Relief

A humanitarian organization committed to improving the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies, Direct Relief delivers lifesaving medical resources to communities in need around the world—without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay. The organization holds NABP Drug Distributor Accreditation and is licensed to distribute prescription medications in all 50 U.S. states. In 2025, Direct Relief received the Seoul Peace Prize in recognition of its global humanitarian impact and effectiveness. For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.directrelief.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">www.DirectRelief.org</a>.

About ERA

With more than 28,000 members, the ERA (European Renal Association) is one of the largest and most prestigious nephrology associations worldwide. It supports basic and clinical research in clinical nephrology, dialysis, renal transplantation, and related subjects, dedicated to advancing kidney health through science, education, and networking. Founded in 1963, ERA serves as a leading platform for scientific exchange, professional development, and advocacy in the field of nephrology across Europe and beyond. ERA organises annual congresses, supports fellowships and CME courses, and publishes two leading nephrology journals in Europe: Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation and Clinical Kidney Journal (open access). For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.era-online.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.era-online.org/</a>

About ISN

The International Society of Nephrology, established in 1960, is a global professional medical association committed to advancing kidney health worldwide through education, grants, research, and advocacy. By collaborating with its members and affiliated national and regional societies, the ISN engages with 30,000 health professionals worldwide to help reduce the burden of kidney diseases and provide optimal health care for patients globally. For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.theisn.org/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theisn.org/</a>

Global Initiative Launched To Protect Kidney Patients During Crises and Emergencies 

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="bicyclist competing" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bf14d682-6a0a-4e4d-b7e8-5ad36c7b4767" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public1_IOC_052125.jpeg" width="640" height="720" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>© C.Laute</figcaption></figure><a href="https://www.olympics.com/ioc/news/once-out-of-reach-now-full-of-life-two-paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public" target="_blank">International Olympic Committee news</a>

The two reopenings reflect the core of the IOC’s Olympic Agenda: a commitment to making the Games more than a celebration of sport, but rather a catalyst for long-term social, economic and environmental change.

“What we’re seeing with the reopening of these two sites is that legacy isn’t theoretical, it’s physical, social and visible in the lives of people who now have access to places they didn’t before,” says Marie Sallois, IOC Director for Sustainability and Legacy.

<blockquote>
Paris 2024 was the first Games fully shaped by the principles of Olympic Agenda. Legacy was built in from the start, through smart venue planning, local partnerships and a focus on long-term benefits for communities. Today that promise is becoming visible: in reopened hillsides, new trails and extended parkland. Marie Sallois IOC Director for Sustainability and Legacy
</blockquote>

Élancourt Hill: a viewpoint reclaimed

Élancourt Hill, at 231 metres above sea level, is the highest natural point in the Paris region. Until recently, few locals had ever been to the top. Once a sandstone quarry, later a landfill and eventually rehabilitated in the 1980s, the site remained fenced off for decades — inaccessible and forgotten.
<img alt="bicyclist competing" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58577a3c-925c-4734-8ed1-d80d1aa71540" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public2_IOC_052125.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />For the Games, the hill was transformed into the Olympic mountain bike venue. Riders tackled a technical course designed to take advantage of its steep inclines and dramatic views. Spectators watched from grassy slopes and purpose-built stands, with the skyline of Paris — including the Eiffel Tower — visible on the horizon.
<img alt="bicyclists" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b7c99d0d-ffb1-462f-bc64-902c6d4f2651" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public3_IOC_052125.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />Now, the barriers are gone. Reopened to the public in May 2025, Élancourt Hill is no longer just a venue. It’s a 52-hectare public space, with mountain bike trails of varying difficulty, walking paths, a free-access pumptrack, picnic areas and panoramic viewpoints. For a department like Yvelines, with fewer major urban parks than central Paris, this is an important boost to the quality of life of its residents.
<img alt="bicycling competion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a5a2ed43-e167-4612-9360-65def0229f79" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public4_IOC_052125.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />Parc Georges-Valbon: expanding the green heart of Seine-Saint-Denis

Further east, in the heart of Seine-Saint-Denis, Parc Georges-Valbon is undergoing its own transformation. At over 400 hectares, it’s one of the largest urban parks in Europe — but until now, parts of it were disconnected or underused. A 13-hectare patch of land on its northern edge, known as the Terrain des Essences, was previously a military fuel depot, closed off and heavily contaminated.
<img alt="competition track" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c27022c-1bdd-4975-bc21-f335caa67b0b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public5_IOC_052125.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" />That land has been cleaned up, restored and integrated into the park. The new section, with natural habitats, walking paths and biodiversity zones, not only expands the park, but also improves its accessibility, thanks to new mobility links.

During the Games, Parc Georges-Valbon served as one of Paris 2024’s official fan zones, drawing tens of thousands for concerts, community events and big-screen Olympic broadcasts. Its expansion now cements it as a permanent green refuge in one of France’s most densely populated and least green departments.

First Games aligned with Olympic Agenda

Paris 2024 were the first Games fully aligned with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) reforms of <a href="https://olympics.com/ioc/olympic-agenda-2020" target="_blank">Olympic Agenda 2020</a>, which set a path towards more sustainable Olympic and Paralympic Games. Olympic Agenda calls on future hosts to maximise positive impact while minimising their environmental footprint, for example, by reusing existing venues wherever possible, accelerating infrastructure that benefits residents, encouraging physical activity, and embedding legacy planning from the earliest stages of Games planning.
<img alt="bicyclists" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="594160c5-a370-451f-921e-1f4e6e15e63b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public7_IOC_052125.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="689" loading="lazy" />With 95 per cent of venues either existing or temporary, Paris 2024 was structured to act as a catalyst for long-term change, with strategic investment focused on Seine-Saint-Denis, one of France’s youngest, most diverse and most disadvantaged departments, long underserved in terms of transport, sports infrastructure and green space.

A third of the Olympic venues were in the department, including the new Aquatics Centre, the Olympic Village and major celebration zones, strategically located to serve the local community, creating more access to housing, sports infrastructure and green spaces.
<img alt="mascots with a crowd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72684117-d514-49ac-ab6d-79d13f4e9a92" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/paris-2024-venues-reopen-to-the-public6_IOC_052125.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="583" loading="lazy" />“As the one-year anniversary of the Games approaches, the reopening of Élancourt Hill and Parc Georges-Valbon offers a powerful answer to a fundamental question: what do the Games leave behind?” says Sallois. “In Paris, they leave behind greener and more connected communities, and we’re only just beginning to see that long-term impact take shape.”

Once out of Reach, Now Full of Life: Two Paris 2024 Venues Reopen to the Public

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="Students presented their festivals to industry professionals. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8fc663e8-75da-4d6c-91b5-c4da1dc43194" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/DSC08839.jpg" width="640" height="855" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Students</figcaption></figure>To educate high-school and college students about career opportunities in the live music industry, AEG and Goldenvoice hosted two career exploration events, AEG Futures, timed to Goldenvoice’s popular music festivals Just Like Heaven and Head in the Clouds Music &amp; Arts Festival.

The AEG Futures’ Just Like Heaven event took place on May 8 and included remarks by Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo Pasadena City Council Member Tyron Hampton, as well as Jens Weiden, Chief Executive Officer of the Rose Bowl Operating Company.

The Head in the Clouds event, took place on May 14 and included opening remarks by Terry Park of The Asian American Foundation, and Jens Weiden, Chief Executive Officer of the Rose Bowl Operating Company.

At both events, students were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the festival grounds, located at Brookside at the Rosebowl, to better understand how stage and sound design, festival layout, food and beverage concessions and merchandise and sustainability vendors coordinate to bring a music festival to life.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1cfe384-44a5-4191-94e2-95f6caeb16d9" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/DSC08561.jpg" width="640" height="855" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Students went on a tour of the festival grounds. </figcaption></figure>Additionally, students participated in speed mentoring sessions, connecting one-on-one and in small groups with industry professionals Rachel So, Festival Operations Manager at Goldenvoice, and Chavante “Tae” Flakes, a Talent Buyer at Goldenvoice. These intimate conversations gave students the opportunity to ask questions, explore career paths, and gain confidence in their aspirations.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17348c85-7aea-4f4e-bc97-580b3db9034e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/DSC08676.jpg" width="640" height="933" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Students had the chance to connect with industry professionals one-on-one.</figcaption></figure>For the final activity, students participated in a Build Your Own Festival challenge, where they were tasked with putting their knowledge to the test by designing and pitching their own music festivals to a panel of Goldenvoice executives.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="The “Build Your Own Festival” activity allowed students to organize their dream festival. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="444fd930-f013-4cd6-a4a3-ec5ca7991f4c" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/DSC08775%202.jpg" width="640" height="855" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>festival</figcaption></figure>“These AEG Futures events are a great opportunity to expose students to career opportunities in live entertainment while providing them with a great educational opportunity. It’s an incredible experience to have because many are still thinking about what to do when they graduate,” said Michael Ilves,  Senior Director, Festivals, Goldenvoice. “By giving students a hands-on look at how major music festivals come together and offering direct access to industry professionals, we’re helping them build real-world skills and envision a future for themselves in this space. Early exposure to career pathways like these can increase students’ confidence and help them make more informed decisions about their postsecondary plans.”

Both AEG Futures events underscore the company’s commitment to investing in the next generation of live entertainment leaders. To learn more about AEG Futures, please visit <a href="https://aegworldwide.com/about/social-impact" target="_blank">https://aegworldwide.com/about/social-impact.</a>

To educate high-school and college students about career opportunities in the live music industry, AEG and Goldenvoice hosted two career exploration events, AEG Futures, timed to Goldenvoice’s popular music festivals Just Like Heaven and Head in the Clouds Music &amp; Arts Festival.

AEG and Goldenvoice Hosts High-School and College Students for an Inside Look at the Making of a Music Festival

When LaNeta and Doug Roth opened Scary Strokes, an 11,000-square-foot black light mini golf course and arcade, they wanted to bring a little family vacation magic to their hometown of Waldorf, Maryland. 

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="66e1696d-7278-460f-ace3-9cbe964826b1" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/grants-young-innovators-2025-regeneron-international-science_Mary-Kay_52825.jpeg" width="640" height="1600" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Kristin Dasaro, Director, Package Engineering and Sustainability at Mary Kay, greets Brazilian cancer researcher, Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva, who received back-to-back awards from Mary Kay for innovative findings in the malignancy of tumors. (Photo Credit: Mary Kay Inc.)</figcaption></figure>DALLAS, May 29, 2025 /CSRwire/ - Mary Kay Inc., a global advocate for furthering young women’s education and encouraging youth to follow their STEM dreams, returned for a second year as a Special Awards Organization at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF) in Columbus, Ohio. Ten grants totaling nearly $10,000 were awarded to standout high school-aged students excelling in innovative projects spanning topics from finding cures for cancers affecting women to sustainable packaging innovation and protecting our planet’s most valuable resources.Each year, the event convenes nearly 2,000 participants representing more than 60 countries, with a total award pool offering over $9 million in awards and scholarships and invitations to corporate and academic events with elite global leaders in STEM.

Celebrating its 75th year, ISEF, a program of Society for Science, is the world’s largest pre-college global STEM competition. Through a global network of local, regional, and national science fairs, millions of students are encouraged to explore their passion for scientific inquiry. Each spring, a group of these students is selected as finalists and offered the opportunity to compete at the international level.

“The ingenuity, passion, and innovation demonstrated by these young STEM leaders are awe-inspiring,” said Carrissa Dowdy, Manager of Product Formulation at Mary Kay. “Their work has the potential to transform industries, drive sustainable advancements, and accelerate major breakthroughs in fields like cancer research, material science, and environmental engineering. Mary Kay is proud to stand behind them as they shape the future of STEM.”
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b58d43a-3f72-4b0c-b258-e2d611858bea" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/grants-young-innovators-2025-regeneron-international-science2_Mary-Kay_52825.jpeg" width="640" height="1600" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Mary Kay judges, Carrissa Dowdy, Manager, Product Formulation, and Kristin Dasaro, Director, Package Engineering and Sustainability, awarded grants to the next generation of young women in STEM leaders. (Photo Credit: Mary Kay Inc.)</figcaption></figure>MEET THE STUDENT STEM LEADERS

<ol><li>
	Pragathi Kasani-Akula (GA, USA)

	Multi-Color Magneto-Fluorescent Nanoarchitectures for the Targeted Identification of Exosomes of Triple Negative Breast Cancer
	</li>
	<li>
	Grace Liu (NY, USA)

	Evaluating Gender Disparities Due to Decision-Making Under Uncertainty in Entrepreneurship: A Panel Data Analysis
	</li>
	<li>
	Alina Albeik (VA, USA)

	Implications of Resveratrol on Memory Retention in Dugesia tigrina
	</li>
	<li>
	Kaili Tseng and Leila Gheysar (CA, USA)

	Bombyx mori Antimicrobial Peptides: A Novel and Sustainable Catalyst for Cancer Cell Growth Inhibition and Death
	</li>
	<li>
	Elisabeth Fischermann and Tom Kressbach (Bavaria, Germany)

	On the Hunt for Free Radicals With a Blue Light Reaction
	</li>
	<li>
	Ela Doruk Korkmaz (Istanbul, Turkey)

	Investigation of Potential Anti-Cancer Impacts of Coffee Bean-Derived Exosomes Through Anti-Proliferative and Apoptosis Inducing Effects on Melanoma Skin Cancer Cells via Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway
	</li>
	<li>
	Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva* (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

	Salinomycin as a Molecular Trojan Horse for Targeting Mn-Induced Malignancy in Aggressive Tumors
	</li>
	<li>
	Sofia Nunes (Maranhao, Brazil)

	Formulation of Low-Cost Artificial Skin for Cellular Regeneration and Severe Burns Treatment
	</li>
	<li>
	Margareth Ac-ac (Negros Oriental, Philippines)

	SKIMP: Artificial Intelligence- Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) Portable Skin Cancer Detection Device With Skin Cancer Notifier Python-Based Program
	</li>
	<li>
	Kamila Rotger-Costas and Miranda Sanz-Alvarez (Guaynabo and Caguas, Puerto Rico)

	EcoReishiFlex: An Innovative Sustainable Biodegradable Plastic Alternative Made From Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi Fungi) Polysaccharides
	</li>
</ol>*Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva is a two-time Mary Kay Young Women in STEM grant recipient for her outstanding contributions to the cancer research field. Her 2024 prize money was utilized toward furthering her presented project - Rock the Metals! Investigating Manganese as a Trigger of Malignancy and Metal Transporters as Targets in Cancer Treatment which elevated her 2025 award-winning submission. 

About Mary Kay

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 40 markets. For over 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at <a href="https://marykayglobal.com/" target="_blank">marykayglobal.com</a>. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/marykayglobal" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marykayglobal/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/marykayglobal/mycompany/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, or follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryKayGlobal" target="_blank">X</a>.

# # #

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications 
newsroom.marykay.com 
972.687.5332 or media@mkcorp.com

Mary Kay Inc., a global advocate for furthering young women’s education and encouraging youth to follow their STEM dreams, returned for a second year as a Special Awards Organization at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF) in Columbus, Ohio. 

Latest

AEG and Goldenvoice Hosts High-School and College Students for an Inside Look at the Making of a Music Festival

This Mini Golf Destination Grew With Digital Tools and Grit

Mary Kay Inc. Awards 10 Grants to Young Innovators at 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair

Benevity Releases First Enterprise Impact Platform To Solve CSR and Social Impact’s Biggest Challenges

Maximus To Help Build Cyber Readiness in High School Students

Everyday Care in Action: Thousands of Kenvue Employees Come Together Across 21 Markets To Help Advance Healthier Communities

Articles

This Mini Golf Destination Grew With Digital Tools and Grit

Establishing Strong Roots of Grid Security for the Sustainable Growth of AI

Entergy’s Tribal Scholarship Provides Educational Opportunities for Native American Students

PotlatchDeltic Releases 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report

Global Initiative Launched To Protect Kidney Patients During Crises and Emergencies

Once out of Reach, Now Full of Life: Two Paris 2024 Venues Reopen to the Public