Here’s a 2012 resolution we can all get behind…create jobs for Americans. If you’ve been in Starbucks recently, you’ve noticed “Indivisible” 
wristbands in red, white and blue. Maybe you’re even wearing one?
In partnership with Opportunity Finance Network® (OFN), Starbucks’ “Create Jobs for USA” is focused on job creation in underserved communities by making capital grants to select Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), thus providing access to loans. The Starbucks Foundation is seeding the partnership with an initial $5,000,000 – yes, million! For contributions of $5 or more – at company-operated U.S. stores and online – donors receive an American-made “Indivisible” wristband as a symbol of their participation in this shared
initiative to help get America working again.
Is small business a growth engine for American jobs? Yes! With a Presidential election year in full swing, there’s a lot of talk about getting Americans back on their feet. Starbucks and OFN aren’t going to solve the problem alone, but they are doing something to spark action. Isn’t it time for a little less conversation? Learn more when you pick up your morning latte or at www.createjobsforUSA.org
Thelma Says…Let’s Get to Work!
This video will put a smile on your stressed out face, highlight some high-end seasonal “must-haves” and leave you thinking of furry, four-legged friends this season – and I don’t mean reindeer.
Thelma has a friend who is hosting a marvelous party, and no, it’s not a “Secret Santa” or “Ugly Christmas Sweater” theme! Instead, guests are invited to “come as you are” in PJs or sweats, bearing gifts for residents at a local Chicago women’s shelter. After the party, the hostess will take the gifts (and probably some checks, too!) to 
Say “thanks” to vets – today or any day – with a 
Thelma thinks a new mom-focused venture is on the right track. ABC News, the United Nations Foundation, in conjunction with Johnson & Johnson, BabyCenter.com and various world class partners and NGOs seek to engage a million Americans with millions of moms in the developing world facing issues impacting pregnancy, childbirth and children’s health. The campaign is called the
It’s Fall and, depending on where you live, that means it’s fleece weather. But where should those cozy vests and jackets go once orange Synchilla no longer suits you? Here’s a great solution – the Patagonia Common Threads Initiative.
Have you seen this shoebox? Lifestyle brand PUMA debuted a new package last year that uses fewer raw materials, less water and energy in production than traditional shoeboxes. It also has no laminated printing or tissue paper, and thanks to a reduction in weight, energy use is decreased during shipping. All of this ultimately reduces PUMA’s carbon emissions “paw print” by 10,000 tons a year.
Thanks to 
supporting campaign Hope Phones have been changing lives across Latin America, Asia and Africa since 2009. If Hope Phones can recycle just 1% of disposed phones each year, they claim they can outfit 1 million health workers, thereby improving the lives of 50 million people. See a 4 minute “Good Morning America” piece featuring Josh here: 
The 2011 Summer Academy recently culminated with highly anticipated college trips where scholars attended classes led by college professors and experienced dorm life. What a great way to inspire scholars to aim for a college degree and stay motivated to reach their highest potential.