Playbook Provides New Framework for Corporate Disaster Response

The Council on Foundations, Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals (ACCP), Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose (CECP), and Points of Light today announced the release of Navigating Disasters and Crises, a practitioner playbook for corporate responsibility, philanthropy, and community investment programs. Designed to guide social impact leaders at a time when disaster response has grown more comprehensive and complex, this playbook provides a new framework with five elements:

  • Develop a crisis response process: including a PayPal case study on its rapid response team, how to form response committees and criteria, and tips for conducting internal reviews to make sure an organization is prepared for a crisis.
  • Assess the crisis: including a Cisco case study on how its response program managed the pandemic and cybersecurity threats, and how to gauge the employee, market, and community impact of a disaster to determine relevance and severity.
  • Determine whether the company will respond: including a sample crisis response rubric, how to guide your response committee to a decision, assess the risk of responding, and consider employee and investor requests.
  • Plan response actions: including a Home Depot Foundation case study on its holistic approach to internal, external, and partner communications, and how to leverage partnerships for shared responses or pledges, develop a communications plan that considers scale, audience, and message, and determine methods of engagement from statements to product donations.
  • Implement the plan and measure results: including a Citi Foundation case study on creating a global approach to crisis response, and how to track the progress of a response, consider whether further investment would benefit communities, determine how long to engage with a crisis, and debrief and improve a response process.

The playbook is based on insights from virtual focus groups, a review of existing online tools and techniques, and conversations with 15 chief sustainability officers, corporate social impact and foundation professionals, and nonprofit leaders. Free to download, the resource also provides a data overview of disaster giving, defines common types of disasters and crises, and explains the strategy of corporate disaster and crisis management.


About the Council on Foundations

The Council on Foundations is a nonprofit membership association that serves as a guide for philanthropies as they advance the greater good. Building on our 75-year history, the Council supports over 900 member organizations in the United States and around the world to build trust in philanthropy, expand pathways to giving, engage broader perspectives, and co-create solutions that will lead to a better future for all. Learn more about the Council and become a member by visiting www.cof.org. Contact Nicole Bronzan ([email protected]) for media inquiries.

About ACCP

The Association of Corporate Citizenship (ACCP) is the preeminent membership organization advancing the practice of Corporate Social Impact. ACCP increases the effectiveness of Corporate Social Impact professionals and their companies by sharing knowledge, fostering solutions, and cultivating inclusive and supportive peer communities. ACCP amplifies the voices of its practitioner network to elevate strategies that work, provide innovative solutions, and expand impact. Learn more at www.accp.org and contact Jeanne Metzger ([email protected]) for media inquiries.

About CECP

Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose® (CECP) is the only business counsel and network dedicated to driving measurable returns on purpose. We promote responsible purpose-driven business as it increases customer loyalty, builds employee engagement, improves brand trust, attracts top talent, connects with strategic investors, and contributes to the bottom line. For more information, visit cecp.co and contact Katie Leasor ([email protected]) for media inquiries.

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more equitable communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages more than 3.8 million volunteers across 32 countries. For more information, visit www.pointsoflight.org and contact Katherine Morales ([email protected]) for media inquiries.

Lowe’s Invites Communities to Nominate Projects for Lowe’s Hometowns

Lowe’s today announced the company is accepting project nominations for Lowe’s Hometowns, its five-year, $100 million commitment to community revitalization. Lowe’s will award $10 million in grants to fund 100 renovations and complete an additional 1,700 improvement projects selected by its associates this year. Now through Feb. 18, people across the country are encouraged to nominate a project to benefit their community or a local nonprofit by visiting Lowes.com/Hometowns.

More than 500,000 people are anticipated to benefit within one year of completion of Lowe’s Hometowns projects in 2024 and more than 3 million since the program launched in 2022.

For example, last year, Lowe’s helped expand a community of safe homes for veterans in Sioux Falls, South Dakota; build a new bunkhouse and renovate the kitchen for a volunteer fire department in Scotland, Connecticut; and transformed a kitchenette into a full-size kitchen to provide nutritious meals for children transitioning into foster care in LaFollette, Tennessee.

“Helping our neighbors and communities is what Lowe’s does best,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO. “Over the last three years, Lowe’s Hometowns has inspired thousands of community improvement projects across the country, which have been brought to life by our associates’ ability to solve problems and get things done. I am excited to see the difference we will make in 2025.”

Lowe’s is uniquely positioned to make an impact. Lowe’s Hometowns leverages the company’s red vest associates’ DIY expertise and longstanding community relationships, extensive network of Pros and vast product assortment to improve, expand or beautify spaces that serve as the hubs and heartbeats of communities. The program is also supported by Lowe’s trusted community impact and implementation partner, Points of Light.

“Communities have urgent needs for investments and volunteers nationwide,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, Points of Light’s president and CEO. “Lowe’s empowers communities to make the improvements they imagine a reality through the Lowe’s Hometowns program. Grants and employee volunteers support locally identified projects, like expanding food banks and refreshing shared spaces, to fill critical gaps and create sustainable, positive changes.”

Eligible project types include rebuilding or renovating:

  • Safe and affordable housing facilities such as shelters or transitional living facilities
  • Community resources such as senior citizen centers, first responder facilities, food pantries or youth clubs
  • Outdoor community spaces like parks, gardens and playgrounds
  • Cultural preservation such as theaters or memorials
  • Facilities dedicated to skilled trades education

Visit Lowes.com/hometowns for complete program terms and to nominate a community project.

For additional media assets, click here. Full program impact data available in the Lowe’s Hometowns Executive Summary.

Gen Z Civic Leader Alex Edgar Joins Points of Light Board of Directors

Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteering, proudly welcomes Alex Edgar to its Board of Directors. A recognized advocate for youth engagement and civic leadership, Edgar brings a dynamic voice to the organization as it reimagines volunteering for future generations through a comprehensive, multi-year strategy.

As the first Gen Z member of Points of Light’s Board, Edgar will play a pivotal role in influencing the organization’s strategy to inspire a new wave of civic participation. Currently serving as the youth engagement manager at Made By Us, Edgar leads initiatives amplifying youth voices, including the National Youth250 Advisory Bureau, which mobilizes young leaders for the United States 250th anniversary in 2026.

“I’m honored to join the Points of Light Board of Directors to help build community through the power of volunteering,” said Alex. “While Gen Z lives increasingly digital lives, we are also searching for authentic, human connection. We are values-driven and see the changes that need to be made systemically. We see volunteering as a path towards a future of greater engagement, in deeper, more meaningful, and impactful ways.”

“Alex represents the energy and innovation we need as we chart the future of volunteering,” said Neil Bush, Board Chair of Points of Light. “His leadership as a Gen Z trailblazer builds on the vision that my father, President George H.W. Bush, established 35 years ago. Alex’s insight will help ensure that volunteering remains a cornerstone of vibrant, connected communities for generations to come.” Edgar has been recognized nationally for his leadership, earning several notable honors for his efforts in youth and civic engagement, including the 2022 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award from the National Association of Secretaries of State and the 2023 California Young Steward Leader Award from California Forward.

“Gen Z is redefining what it means to be civically engaged, leveraging technology and their powerful voices to drive meaningful change,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of Points of Light. “Alex’s appointment reflects our commitment to bringing Gen Z’s fresh, innovative perspectives to the decision-making table. These insights will help us shift the perception of volunteering and ensure everyone can find their purpose in addressing today’s challenges. We look forward to Alex’s contributions as he brings his unique perspective and passion for creating more engaged citizens and a more deeply connected generation.” Points of Light knows that young people are passionate and active in their communities. We recognize their impact through the Daily Point of Light Awards; last year more than 50 percent (or 130 honorees) were under 25 years old. This network of young leaders shows the value and impact of youth engaging in volunteering.

Alex holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from UC Berkeley and serves on several influential boards and committees, including the National Advisory Board for the UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement, the Executive Committee of Californians for Civic Learning, and the United States Census Bureau’s 2030 Census Advisory Committee, where he is the youngest appointee in the history of the Department of Commerce.

Edgar officially joined the Points of Light board on Dec. 11, 2024.

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more equitable communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages more than 3.8 million volunteers across 32 countries. For more information, visit www.pointsoflight.org.


MEDIA CONTACT

Katherine Morales, APR, Director of Public Relations

[email protected]

A Statement on the Passing of the 39th President of the United States Jimmy Carter

Points of Light joins millions around the world in celebrating the life of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States of America, Navy veteran, life-long public servant and nonprofit founder of The Carter Center. He was a model for a civic life well lived. Jimmy Carter began his career in the Navy as a submariner, rising to the rank of lieutenant. After leaving the Navy, he became a community leader through volunteering, serving on multiple boards for his county and school system. These experiences moved him to a career in public service, serving in the Georgia Senate and as Georgia’s governor, before running for and being elected as President of the United States.

As president, Carter administered significant international treaties and championed human rights throughout the world. After his time in office, President Carter continued to advance causes he cared about. Founding The Carter Center in 1982, President Carter continued to address national and international policy with the goal of resolving conflict, protecting human rights and promoting democracy. His efforts resulted in his being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. In addition, he and his wife Rosalynn volunteered with Habitat for Humanity annually for more than 35 years. President Carter long supported Points of Light’s mission to inspire, equip and mobilize people to take action to change the world, starting in their own communities.

In 2011, he joined us on stage at our “All Together Now: A Celebration of Service” Tribute event honoring Points of Light’s founder, President George H.W. Bush. In 2017, he joined President George H.W. Bush on stage in College Station, Texas, with Presidents George W. Bush, William Clinton and Barack Obama, to present five Daily Point of Light Awards to volunteers in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

Additionally, from 2019 – 2023, he served as an honorary co-chair for The George H.W. Bush Points of Light Awards along with Presidents Bush (43), Clinton and Obama. We are grateful for his generous support throughout the years.

President Carter dedicated his life to serving others and was truly a point of light. His legacy will continue to inspire others to become deeply involved in their communities and country to create a more just, equitable world.

Points of Light Launches The Civic 50 2025 Survey Recognizing America’s Top Community-Minded Companies

Points of Light, the world’s leading organization dedicated to volunteer service, will launch The Civic 50 annual survey on Dec. 10, 2024. The Civic 50 is a recognition program and benchmarking tool that allows companies to measure their social impact programs and celebrate their achievements.

For more than a decade, The Civic 50 has celebrated the 50 most community-minded companies in the U.S. This prestigious recognition program, established in 2012, has become the gold standard for corporate social impact, guiding companies in leveraging their resources to create meaningful change in their businesses and communities. The survey will remain open through March 13, 2025. To help companies understand the survey sections, benefits of participating and benchmarking reports, Points of Light will host an informational webinar on Dec. 10, at 1 p.m. ET. Detailed information, including key dates, FAQs, eligibility requirements and survey questions, is available on the applicant information page.

“Companies are in a powerful position to create exponential change for their employees, the communities where they live and work and society at large,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of Points of Light. “The Civic 50 offers a blueprint for corporate citizenship and social impact, shares proven practices and recognizes the companies leading transformational change.”

The Civic 50 recognizes public and private companies with U.S. operations and revenues of at least $1 billion. Honorees are selected based on four (4) key dimensions of their community engagement programs:

  • Investment: Strategic allocation of resources, including employee time and skills, cash, in-kind contributions and public leadership.
  • Integration: Community engagement and social impact embedded into business functions and interests, exemplifying the principle of ‘doing well by doing good.’
  • Institutionalization: Establish community engagement and social impact through organizational policies, systems and incentives.
  • Impact: Measure the outcomes of community engagement and social impact initiatives on both social and business fronts.

Participating in The Civic 50 provides significant advantages to companies. It allows them to develop a strategic road map to evaluate, enhance and scale social impact programs, as well as communicating the company’s commitment to addressing critical social issues. Additionally, it fosters a sense of pride and connection for employees. The Civic 50 survey is administered by True Impact, a company specialized in maximizing and measuring social and business value, and analyzed by VeraWorks. The survey includes quantitative and multiple-choice questions that inform The Civic 50 scoring process. For more information, visit pointsoflight.org/the-civic-50.

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more equitable communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages more than 3.8 million volunteers across 32 countries.

Points of Light Celebrates Extraordinary Philanthropists and Founders at The George H.W. Bush Points of Light Awards 2024

Points of Light, a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and community engagement, hosted the sixth annual celebration of The George H.W. Bush Points of Light Awards on Wednesday, October 23, at The Capital Hilton. The event celebrated the transformative power of service, honoring Patrick Dempsey, Arthur M. Blank, Ashley Brown, and Shrusti Amula for volunteering in community and supporting causes in ways that demonstrate the extraordinary characteristics of Points of Light founder, President George H.W. Bush. Event co-chairs were Marie and Andy Unanue, Frank and Liz Blake, Lauren Bush Lauren and David Lauren.

The awards opened with an inspiring video narrated by Honorary Co-Chairs, President Bill Clinton, President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama, as a special tribute to President George H.W. Bush’s 100th birthday celebrated in 2024, as well as remarks from Board Chair Neil Bush and Points of Light President and CEO Jennifer Sirangelo.

Actor Patrick Dempsey was honored for his work with the Dempsey Center which creates a space where those impacted by cancer can find relief, comfort, resources and support at no cost. Philanthropist and businessman Arthur M. Blank was recognized for his work with the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation , which uses the power of values-based, connected philanthropy to champion meaningful change that strengthens communities. Ashley Brown was recognized for founding and leading the Selfless Love Foundation, which works to improve the child welfare system by helping children in foster care get adopted, supporting youth who age out of the system, and advocating to improve the policies. Eighteen-year-old Shrusti Amula was celebrated for her work founding Rise N Shine Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing food waste through composting and food recovery programs.

“Points of Light uplifts and inspires people to make the world a better place. We’re not waiting for something that’s going to happen 10 years down the road, we can change someone’s life right now, today, in this moment,” said Patrick Dempsey. “Part of the grace of being born is having an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of other people you’re connected to, who you may not even know, in whatever form you can,” said Arthur M. Blank. “Points of Light is a beautiful expression about how individuals can light up a community, a city, a state, a nation, a world, and I am glad the Blank Family Foundation can be a part of this legacy.”

“We all have the capability to change lives and make the world a better place, whether through service, philanthropy, or volunteerism,” said Ashley Brown. “I am so grateful to Points of Light for shining a beam on the needs of youth impacted by foster care and the work Selfless Love Foundation is doing to create families, belonging, and safety.”

“Young people are the leaders of change. To other aspiring young leaders, my message to you is this: to persist. You will eventually find an advocate who will fully believe in you and help you take your aspirations to the next level,” said Shrusti Amula. “As we accept this award, we also accept the responsibility of continuing our work with a renewed figure, we commit to inspiring more people to volunteer, to creating more opportunities for meaningful change, and to fighting climate change and food insecurity on a larger level.”

Nearly 300 guests were in attendance to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of the honorees. Other VIPs in attendance included 2023 honorees Mike Love, lead singer and a founding member of The Beach Boys, and Jacquelyne Love, businesswoman, accomplished philanthropist, interior designer and fashion designer; chief of staff for President George H.W. Bush Jean Becker; and Home Depot CEO Ted Decker.

The evening was emceed by 29-time Emmy Award winning broadcaster Bob Costas as guests enjoyed entertainment by operatic tenor and international performing artist Fernando Varela with piano accompaniment by professional musician, arranger, composer, and music director,Thomas (Boh) Cooper. Following the awards, guests participated in a live auction to support the mission of Points of Light to mobilize more individuals to volunteer and to empower nonprofits to meet critical community needs.

“Points of Light is honored to recognize these exemplary role models and distinguished leaders in service and philanthropy,” said President and CEO, Jennifer Sirangelo. “Their unwavering dedication to strengthening communities and championing solutions for critical causes embodies the very essence of our mission. We are proud to celebrate them as true points of light and honor them with the prestigious George H.W. Bush Points of Light Award.”

Past Award recipients include Condoleeza Rice (2023), Mike and Jacquelyne Love (2023), José Andrés (2022), Maurice R. “Hank” Greenberg (2022), Francine A. LeFrak (2021), Dr. Ala Stanford (2021), Marc and Lynne Benioff (2020), and Hamdi Ulukaya (2020).

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more equitable communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages more than 3.8 million volunteers across 38 countries.

Media Contacts

Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis on behalf of Points of Light | [email protected]

Starbucks Social Impact Leader Kelly Goodejohn Joins Points of Light Board of Directors

Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteering, is proud to announce the appointment of Kelly Goodejohn, Vice President and Chief Social Impact Officer at Starbucks, to its Board of Directors. A proven leader in corporate social responsibility, Goodejohn brings more than 25 years of experience driving community impact and sustainability initiatives at scale.

In her 18 years with Starbucks, Goodejohn has led the company’s mission to build thriving communities through innovative programs that harness the power of human connection. Under her leadership, Starbucks’ community and social impact strategies have empowered employees, launched social impact stores, bolstered community resilience programs, and delivered critical disaster response initiatives. She is focused on ways in which Starbucks can support thriving communities by empowering partners, leveraging our Third Place for human connection, and solving community challenges. She also oversees The Starbucks Foundation, championing equitable growth for communities around the globe, from coffee and tea-growing regions to local neighborhoods across the U.S.

“Kelly’s deep understanding of the intersection between business and social good, combined with her innovative leadership at Starbucks, makes her a perfect fit for Points of Light’s mission to inspire, equip, and mobilize people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and service,” said Neil Bush, Board Chair of Points of Light.”

Goodejohn’s commitment to creating a lasting positive impact extends beyond her corporate role. She serves as executive sponsor of Hora del Café, a network that celebrates and supports the Latino community.

“With a shared commitment to volunteerism and uplifting local communities around the world, it is an honor to join Points of Light’s Board of Directors. At Starbucks, our partners (employees) are Community Champions that live our promise to contribute positively to the communities we serve. I am encouraged by the opportunity to work with this incredible organization to foster community engagement and create impactful change on a global scale.”

Points of Light looks forward to Goodejohn’s contributions as she brings her strategic vision and relentless dedication to creating more resilient, equitable communities.

She joined the Points of Light board effective September 27, 2024.

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more equitable communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages nearly 4 million volunteers across 38 countries. For more information, visit pointsoflight.org.

Points of Light Shares Volunteer Time Off Guide for Social Impact Leaders

Today, Points of Light adds to its growing library of business resources with a new comprehensive guide designed to help companies enhance employee engagement in volunteer activities. Titled, “Volunteer Time Off: Implementing and Optimizing Workplace Programs and Policies,” the guide is available for free download.

Volunteer Time Off (VTO) programs, also known as Paid Volunteer Time, provide benefits for companies, employees and communities, including improved employee morale, greater talent attraction and retention and crucial support for nonprofits. According to Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose® (CECP), only 65 percent of companies currently offer VTO opportunities to domestic employees. This is notable given that 95 percent of respondents in Deloitte’s 2024 Workplace Volunteer Survey indicated that making a positive community impact is important to them. “VTO is one of the most desired philanthropic offerings a company can provide to its employees,” said Lacey Gaitan, senior vice president of corporate programs at Points of Light.

“We believe this guide will inspire more companies and employees to engage in community service.” The guide provides corporate leaders with insights on creating successful VTO programs, including strategic planning, program development, implementation, and feedback gathering. For additional insights, view the recap of Points of Light’s webinar, ‘Policies That Enable Employee-Powered Change.’“A VTO policy showcases a company’s commitment to social impact while benefiting both the business and its employees,” Gaitan added.

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more equitable communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages nearly 4 million volunteers across 38 countries. For more information, visit https://www.pointsoflight.org/.

Points of Light Releases The Civic 50 2024 Honoree Insights & Benchmarking Report

Points of Light, a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips and mobilizes millions of people to act that changes the world, today released The Civic 50 2024 Honoree Insights and Benchmarking Report. The Civic 50, now in its twelfth year, recognizes the 50 most community-minded companies in the United States with annual revenues of at least $1 billion, providing a road map for good corporate citizenship while showcasing how companies are moving social impact, civic engagement and community to the center of their business. 

Download The Civic 50 2024 for full insights and benchmarking data.

The Civic 50 2024 honorees demonstrate a deep commitment to community engagement, employee volunteerism and CSR best practices, and share similar practices that move the needle in these areas. Amongst other key findings, they:

  • Engage 40% of employees, on average, in external volunteering, twice the 20% average for US companies. 
  • Contribute more than five times the cash and in-kind donations to charitable causes compared to the average US company, as a percentage of revenue (0.69% versus 0.12%).¹ 
  • Establish departmental goals related to community engagement (84%). 
  • Frequently offer paid time off to volunteer to employees (84%), significantly higher than the percentage of companies with similar programs for domestic employees (65%).² 

([1], [2] US data from Giving in Numbers, 2023 by CECP.).

The Civic 50 survey is administered by True Impact, and the results are analyzed by VeraWorks.

The survey instrument consists of quantitative and multiple-choice questions that inform the scoring process. The Civic 50 is the only survey and ranking system that exclusively measures corporate community engagement. To learn more about The Civic 50, email [email protected].

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world. Through our work with nonprofits, companies, and social impact leaders, we galvanize volunteers to meet critical needs. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, we engage nearly 4 million volunteers across 38 countries to create healthy, equitable communities where all can thrive. For more information, visit pointsoflight.org.

 

100 Organizations Nationwide Awarded $10 Million for Renovations Through Lowe’s Hometowns Community Impact Program

Originally published on Lowe’s newsroom.

From helping to build a community of safe homes for veterans in South Dakota to transforming a kitchenette into a full-size kitchen to provide nutritious meals for children transitioning into foster care in Tennessee, 100 nonprofits received Lowe’s Hometowns grants to renovate, restore or rebuild their spaces.

The $10 million in Lowe’s Hometowns grants announced today will benefit 88 communities in 44 states and Washington, D.C. The 100 projects, selected from consumer nominations, address needs specific to each community, from access to housing and community services to support for first responders and veterans.

“The support of the Lowe’s Hometowns grant helps us continue our mission to create a path back to stability for those who took the oath to protect this country,” said Bryan Meyer, CEO of nonprofit Veterans Community Project. “Opening this community will not only benefit Sioux Falls by providing much-needed support for local veterans, but it also adds another village to our network, further strengthening our efforts to fix veteran homelessness nationwide.”

Lowe’s Hometowns, the company’s five-year, $100 million community impact program, launched in 2022.

2.5 million people are anticipated to benefit from the first two years of Lowe’s Hometowns projects within one year of project completion.1 

In addition to supporting the 100 grant-funded projects, Lowe’s associates will complete more than 1,700 community revitalization projects as a part of Lowe’s Hometowns. Lowe’s associates contribute tens of thousands of volunteer hours and use Lowe’s products, services and network of Pros to bring the renovations to life. “Lowe’s Hometowns is all about bringing neighbors together to improve shared spaces and our communities,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO. “At Lowe’s we are committed to giving our customers a great place to shop, providing our associates with a wonderful place to work, while making the communities where we live and work better. We believe if we can accomplish these three commitments, we will continue to deliver shareholder value.” Other projects funded by grants will:

  • kickstart a tiny home community in Lahaina, Hawaii, in partnership with Rebuild Maui, after the devastating wildfires
  • provide fresh food for a Detroit neighborhood located in a food desert by transforming an abandoned lot into a vibrant garden and market space with Peace Tree Parks
  • renovate the Undercliff Volunteer Fire Company’s facility in Pittsburgh to make it more comfortable and welcoming for volunteers and the community

Lowe’s Hometowns is made possible by the company’s innovative partnership with Points of Light. The national nonprofit serves as a trusted community impact adviser and implementation partner. “Grants that support nonprofits’ infrastructure and ability to provide community services are critical and often the areas that nonprofits find the most difficult to gain funding support for,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of Points of Light. “Lowe’s continues to set a stellar example of community impact by leveraging its resources and assets to deliver, in partnership with community, the best long-term outcomes for millions of individuals.” Visit Lowes.com/Hometowns and follow #LowesHometowns on social media to learn more about each organization and keep up with the projects. Full program impact data is available in the Lowe’s Hometowns Executive Summary linked here.

About Lowe’s

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) is a FORTUNE® 50 home improvement company serving approximately 16 million customer transactions a week in the United States. With total fiscal year 2023 sales of more than $86 billion, Lowe’s operates over 1,700 home improvement stores and employs approximately 300,000 associates. Based in Mooresville, N.C., Lowe’s supports the communities it serves through programs focused on creating safe, affordable housing and helping to develop the next generation of skilled trade experts. For more information, visit Lowes.com.

Media Contact

Laurel Waller Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

[email protected]