Category: Brandpoint

2024-08-05T11:01:00

(BPT) – As summer winds down and thoughts turn to back-to-school, many teachers around the country know that not all of their students will come to school equipped with a backpack full of school supplies. An alarmingly high number of teachers, 92% nationwide, have students whose families cannot afford the necessary school supplies, according to AdoptAClassroom.org. For families that may be struggling economically, those crayons, folders and No. 2 pencils can add up to a hefty price tag when wondering if they can put food on the table and keep the electricity on.

So, what’s the answer? All too often, teachers use their own funds to purchase supplies for the classroom — an average of $860 out of pocket per year. As most people know, these dedicated educators don’t get paid enough as it is. There has to be a better solution than stretching their resources thinner.

Nonprofits + corporate dollars can help bridge the gap

That’s where Subaru comes in. As part of its Subaru Loves Learning^® initiative, the automaker that brought us groundbreaking vehicles like the Outback and Forester is making a game-changing effort to bring school supplies into classrooms in high-needs schools across the country.

Subaru is continuing its partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, a nonprofit that funds PreK-12 teachers in high-needs schools to help equip classrooms with the supplies students need to learn and thrive. As their largest corporate sponsor, as of this year’s initiative Subaru and its retailers will have supported 750,000 students by helping them get the supplies they need to succeed in the classroom.

“Starting the school year off right with the supplies necessary to hit the ground running is important, especially for children in high-needs schools,” said Alan Bethke, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Subaru of America, Inc. “Along with AdoptAClassroom.org, our retailers are taking some of the financial burden off teachers’ shoulders and working towards leveling the playing field for students.”

Supplies help students get ready to learn

The four-year-strong partnership between Subaru, participating retailers, and AdoptAClassroom.org is producing great results. According to a teacher survey conducted by AdoptAClassroom.org:

• 91% of teachers said Subaru’s donation increased access to materials they couldn’t buy without it.
• 98% of teachers surveyed who received a supply kit said it helped them spend less of their own money on school supplies during the last school year.
• On average, 89% of students in classrooms adopted by Subaru were more engaged in their learning because of the donation.

One reason the partnership works so well is that the AdoptAClassroom.org model isn’t about just delivering backpacks filled with supplies to classrooms. Teachers register with the program and are given funding that they can use to buy exactly what they need via the organization’s online marketplace. Then, those hand-picked supplies are delivered directly to their classrooms. In other words, it’s not a cookie-cutter solution. It’s tailor-made.

Sometimes, a brand isn’t just a brand. A product isn’t just a product. And in Subaru’s case, a car company isn’t just a car company. Subaru has a long history of giving people and their pets more than just a ride. It also gives them a leg up. It’s part of the Subaru Love Promise, the company’s commitment to being a positive force in the communities in which they live and work, not just with donations, but with actions that set an example for others to follow.

Here’s hoping for a great school year for a larger number of kids and teachers alike. Although the need may be growing, so is the response from organizations that recognize their responsibility to help.

To learn more, visit Subaru Loves Learning and follow @Subaru and #SubaruLovesLearning.

2024-08-05T11:01:00

(BPT) – Many of today’s homebuyers and renters face affordability challenges. Higher mortgage rates and low housing supply have increased homeownership costs. Corresponding increases in rent have also made it more difficult for potential borrowers to save for a down payment.

However, just because affordability is a challenge doesn’t mean that the dream of homeownership is unattainable. In fact, despite consumers’ apprehension about the mortgage process, research shows that the aspiration to own a home is very much alive and there are a number of tools and resources that can help potential borrowers make their dreams of owning a home a reality.

What to do if you’re ready to buy

The difficulty of saving money for a down payment can discourage potential borrowers from pursuing homeownership. However, you may be closer to affording a home than you think.

You’ve probably heard that you need a 20% down payment to buy a home. While this is a traditional standard, it’s not mandatory to qualify for a home loan. Eligible, creditworthy borrowers can utilize mortgage loan options like Fannie Mae’s HomeReady^®, enabling applicants to put down as little as 3% for home purchases or mortgage refinances. Through February 2025, the program also offers $2,500 towards down payment or closing costs, including mortgage insurance premiums, for very low-income purchase borrowers (≤ 50% applicable area median income) nationwide on the purchase of their principal residence.

If you’re a potential borrower who is ready to buy a home now, you may have several options that can help make homeownership more affordable. An online down payment assistance tool can help you find programs that alleviate some of the upfront costs of buying a home. Using this tool, you can find federal, state, and local down payment and closing cost assistance for which you may be eligible. These resources can help you overcome the initial hurdles to purchasing a home and can make the overall homebuying process more feasible.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you can talk to your lender about options like HomeReady^® First, which provides financial assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers residing in specific geographic communities. This mortgage option includes $5,000 in down payment or closing cost assistance, free homebuyer education, and may include a $500 appraisal credit.

What can I do if I’m not ready to buy?

If you’re not ready to buy a home yet but hope to do so someday, there are still steps you can take to help prepare. First, review your credit score and see how it can be improved over time. As a renter, it’s important to maintain a strong rent payment history to show lenders that you’d be a reliable borrower. For potential first-time homebuyers that do maintain a solid rent payment history, lenders can count those timely payments as part of the mortgage credit evaluation process, which can increase your chances of being eligible for a mortgage loan. In addition, there also are programs that allow your timely rent payments to be factored into your credit score, helping you establish or boost your credit score over time.

Make sure to use a closing costs calculator to educate yourself on closing costs and what fees are negotiable to potentially reduce your upfront costs. Knowing this information early on can help you make a long-term savings goal for your home purchase.

Continue to educate yourself on the homebuying process with an online homeownership education course like Fannie Mae HomeView^®. This free-of-charge, award-winning course provides 24/7, end-to-end access to information about financial literacy, building healthy credit, and the steps to homeownership and is available in English and Spanish. HomeView helps demystify the buying process and helps first-time homebuyers understand and navigate the process from start to finish.

Homeownership may be more accessible than you thought possible, whether you’re ready to buy now or waiting until the time is right. By equipping yourself with the right knowledge, tools, and resources, you can navigate the complexities of the housing market with confidence and clarity, and possibly save money as well.

2024-08-05T10:01:00

(BPT) – For young people, college is full of new experiences: It’s often the first time living away from home, giving a taste of independence with the first step into adulthood and new responsibilities. One of those responsibilities is keeping their belongings safe and secure. It’s something they probably haven’t had to think about before.

When you consider everything a college student brings to school — a laptop, backpack, gaming console, bike or skateboard, mini-fridge, ear buds, smartphone, expensive sneakers-of-the-moment and other expensive clothes and accessories, even a TV and other technology, it adds up to a hefty price tag if any or all of it needs to be replaced.

That’s why insurance specifically designed for college students, like GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance, is worth a look. It provides peace of mind for students at a low cost that might surprise their parents.

Here are six reasons why renters insurance is a good idea for college students.

Theft is out there. According to Clery Act Reports, an average of 24,000 crime and safety incidents are reported every year on college campuses nationwide. Even if dorms provide a layer of security, there is always the possibility your student will get back to their dorm room after a long day of classes only to realize their bike lock was cut, and their bike was stolen. Or return to their study table in the library to find their laptop has walked out the door.

College life needs liability insurance … Imagine life in a typical college dorm room — kids throwing the football around and hitting the sprinkler head, hanging clothes from it, or some other accident causing it to discharge. That water can damage belongings, electronics and even the dorm room itself.

… but liability isn’t only for college shenanigans. Insurance with liability coverage can also protect students from other events in which they may be found liable for damage to the property of others.

Renters insurance is surprisingly affordable. GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance starts with an affordable $100 deductible. This means that if the worst happens, you won’t have a high deductible to pay before your coverage kicks in. With homeowners’ deductibles typically ranging into the thousands, this is an affordable choice.

It’s not confined to the dorm room, campus or even the country. With GradGuard, your student gets worldwide property coverage. Studying abroad? Covered. Home for the weekend? Covered. Traveling for a school project? Covered.

It can teach your student a valuable lesson about adult life. Many parents take out renters insurance for their kids who are away at college. But the policy is affordable, the deductible is low, you can choose monthly or annual plans, and there is no credit score requirement. Why not have your student take out the policy on their own? Sit down and have a conversation about the importance of insurance now, while they’re in college, and into the future. These good habits will last a lifetime.

With renters insurance designed for students, parents can have peace of mind knowing they are protected, and college students can focus on what they’re in school to do: learn. See plans available through GradGuard today.

Coverage is provided by Markel American Insurance Company and/or Markel Insurance Company and underwritten by Markel Service, Incorporated, national producer license # 27585, in California d/b/a Markel Insurance Services, license # 0645481. Policyholder services are provided by Next Generation Insurance Group, LLC. Insurance and coverage are subject to availability and qualifications and may not be available in all states. Terms and conditions for rates and coverages varies. All insurance products are governed by the terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions set forth in the applicable insurance policy. Please see a copy of your policy for the full terms, conditions, and exclusions. Any information on the site does not in any way alter, supplement, or amend the terms, conditions, limitations, or exclusions of the applicable insurance policy and is intended only as a brief summary of such insurance products.

2024-08-05T09:01:00

(BPT) – Summer may be in full swing, but the fall semester is right around the corner. Your family will be busy helping your student pick out decorations for their dorm room, plan move-in day travel and other pre-college errands. Why not use these tasks as financial lessons for your college-bound child?

Financial skills are vital and your student may not pick up this knowledge in the classroom. Now is the time to equip them with these skills before they head off to college. Check out these six financial lessons you can teach your college student this summer!

1. How to set a budget

Before your student ever sets foot on campus, you and your student will be spending money to get them ready for their fall semester. According to a recent College Ave survey, some summer expenses you should plan for include electronics ($1,028 on average), travel and transportation ($638), dorm room essentials ($560) and new clothes ($380).

This pre-college spend is a great opportunity to teach your student how to make a budget. Have them make a list of items they’d like to purchase and how much these items typically cost. Next, if you’re planning to contribute to their spending fund, tell them how much you can give so they can determine how much they’ll need to contribute.

Once they have all this information, show your child how to make a paper or digital budget that can help guide their shopping. Don’t forget to emphasize the importance of sticking to a budget!

2. Ways to save

Cost-saving strategies can help your student stretch their budget. Teach them tips and tricks to save. For example, instead of buying textbooks, encourage them to rent them or find secondhand textbooks from older students at a lower price.

Transportation is another expense that can put a dent in your child’s wallet. Help them research campus transportation options so they can avoid the costs of gas, car insurance and routine maintenance.

Also, remind them that many businesses offer student rates. From movie tickets to streaming services to dining, your child can take advantage of these lower prices and have fun while saving!

3. Build credit history for the future

A positive credit history is essential for future financial success. While the majority of college students know having a good credit score is important (77%), only half know how to improve their credit score (54%).

Explain to your child how they build credit history and help them apply for a student-specific card like the Ambition Card from College Ave. With no credit check to qualify, no interest, no late fees and the benefit of cash-back rewards, the Ambition Card makes it simple to start building their credit history. Your child can use the card to pay for everyday purchases, from textbooks to takeout.

4. Build an emergency fund or savings

Saving is just as important, if not more so, than savvy spending. As you help your child set a budget, make sure to teach them how to set money aside for an emergency fund. No one can predict the future. That’s why it’s important to underscore the importance of setting aside money for a rainy day.

5. Search for scholarships

The scholarship search doesn’t end with high school graduation. College students can still qualify for scholarships throughout their four-year program. Their school may even offer major-specific scholarships.

Encourage your child to apply for these scholarships and continue to search for outside scholarships as well. College Ave provides scholarships and sweepstakes for students and parents to help make college more affordable. These promotions are offered throughout the year, so make sure to check back often and apply.

6. Borrow smartly

If you plan on using loans, borrow federal student loans in the student’s name first, as those offer unique benefits — such as low interest rates and income-based repayment plans — not typically offered by private lenders.

If you find you still have a gap to cover, consider College Ave’s private student loans. College Ave offers good rates, flexible repayment terms and great customer service. Use the College Ave student loan calculator to help estimate your monthly payments.

If you can, start paying back student loans now — even as little as $25 a month — as that will help lower the total cost of your loan.

Don’t let college expenses take your student by surprise! By teaching your child these six financial lessons, you can help them stress less about money so they can focus on this exciting stage of life.

College Ave is not a bank. Banking services provided by, and the College Ave Mastercard Charge Card is issued by Evolve Bank & Trust, Member FDIC pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard and the Mastercard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.

The Ambition Card is designed to help you build your credit history; however, a variety of factors impact your credit including payment history, utilization, derogatory marks, account age, total number of accounts, and inquiries—not all factors are equally weighted.

0% APR. Account is subject to a monthly account fee of $2, account fee is waived for the initial six-monthly billing cycles.

Rewards are not offered by Evolve Bank & Trust and are instead offered and managed by College Ave. Cash back rewards are subject to the Ambition Rewards Terms & Conditions.

2024-08-02T09:01:00

(BPT) – It’s probably an understatement to say that buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially in the current housing environment. From the different types of loans and lenders to the hidden fees that drive up costs, it’s easy to feel lost, confused and unsure if you’re making the right decisions for you and your household. In fact, a recent study from the JPMorgan Chase Institute shows that a lack of understanding the mortgage process could lead to unfavorable terms in the long run and a higher risk of costs.

But, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or in the market for a new home, all hope is not lost. Understanding your mortgage options and the process can not only save you money in the long run, but can help you feel more confident in making the best choice for your specific housing needs.

To master your mortgage and buy your dream home, it can be helpful to start with familiarizing yourself with different types of mortgages, comparing rates, and understanding additional ways to save.

1. Get to know the different mortgage types

One of the main, and often most confusing, decisions you’ll have to make is choosing a mortgage loan type. And just like anything that’s personalized, there is something for everyone. The following explanation focuses on debunking fixed-rate versus adjustable-rate mortgages, but if you’re interested in learning more about conventional versus FHA loans, check out this article or connect with a Home Lending Advisor.

• A fixed-rate mortgage is a loan where the interest remains the same over the life of the loan. So, what this means is your rate will never increase … but it also won’t decrease if the Federal Reserve lowers interest rates. Typically, this loan is recommended if you plan to be in your home for longer than 10+ years. The plus side of a fixed-rate mortgage is that it’s easier to budget if you always know what your interest rates and payments will look like.
• An adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, is a loan where the interest rate is fixed for a specific amount of time, then adjusts periodically. Essentially, your monthly payments will fluctuate based on what the market is doing, so some months your payment might be higher or lower depending on market rates. This is usually a great option for those who don’t plan on living in their house for very long, because typically ARM interest rates start lower than the fixed-rate offerings and then adjust higher or lower over time.

2. Compare your rates

Now that you understand the differences between fixed-rate mortgages and ARMs, it’s time to engage in America’s greatest pastime: shopping around. No matter what loan type you choose, it’s important to compare rates from different types of lenders and select one with terms you’re most comfortable with.

You can find current rates, along with a helpful calculator to figure out what exactly you can afford, at Chase.com/MortgageTools. The mortgage calculator is an easy way to determine what your monthly payments would be and if that aligns with your budget. It also provides the most up-to-date rates in the area where you’re house hunting.

Once you find a rate that feels good to you, it’s a good idea to lock it in if your lender provides that option. For instance, the Chase Homebuyer Advantage program gives buyers the option to lock in their mortgage rate for 90 days with no upfront fees. This gives you peace of mind if you’re worried about rates increasing as you shop around in, say, a very turbulent housing market.

3. Uncovering more ways to save

While most people look at mortgage types and rates as ways to save (which you absolutely should do), many leave money on the table by not exploring homebuyer grants and down payment assistance programs that can save them thousands on homes.

For example, Chase offers a homebuyer grant of up to $7,500 when purchasing homes in more than 15,000 eligible areas across the country. You can use it to save in a variety of ways, such as lowering your interest rate, reducing closing costs or putting it toward your down payment. Check your eligibility for a grant with the Chase Homebuyer Assistance Finder.

Chase also offers a Closing Guarantee, which promises an on-time closing for eligible mortgages in as soon as three weeks or the customer may receive up to $20,000. Essentially, the closing guarantee can help you close quickly, which is helpful in a competitive market.

The homebuying process can feel like a lot, but by understanding the mortgage types, comparing your rates and using grants and incentives to save, you can navigate the process with confidence and make the best decision on your road to home.

2024-08-02T14:59:00

(BPT) – For the first time ever, Kevin is inviting guests to get a front row seat into how he lives. Think inner circle levels of exclusivity. For three nights only, guests will step behind the velvet rope for two of Kevin’s favorite things: good company and great tequila.

Guests will get the Kevin Hart level VIP treatment complete with a tequila tasting with the man of the hour, a live DJ set and a night of all-star performances straight from Kevin’s contact list.

“The Coramino Live Lounge is the pairing of my two greatest passions — comedy and tequila,” Kevin said. “It’s a testament to all my hard work, and now I’m excited for you to get a front row seat to how I live.”

About the experience

Kevin Hart is inviting fans into his inner circle for three separate one-night experiences for up to 30 guests each in Los Angeles. The experiences will occur September 24, 25 and 26 for 15 guests and their plus ones for $76 per person, a nod to Kevin’s birthday on July 6.

Here’s what you can expect:

• You’ll be greeted by Gran Coramino’s lineup — cristalinos, añejos, and Kevin’s personal favorite, reposados — all paired with the perfect plant-based appetizer.
• Kevin will personally guide you through a tasting alongside Chai Lee, the 2023 Gran Coramino Bartender of the Year.
• After the tasting, you can enjoy four signature cocktails — The Boss, The Hart, Summer Melon Spritz, and The Mic Drop.
• The live DJ is gonna bring the beat, so you gotta bring the heat.
• To top it all off, we’ve got a killer lineup of all-star performers straight from Kevin’s contact list.

How to request to book

Comedy fans and tequila connoisseurs can request to book¹ and learn more about all Icons at airbnb.com/kevinhart.

The booking request period opens on Wednesday, August 21 at 9:00 AM PT and closes on Monday, August 26 at 11:59 PM PT for three separate experiences for 30 people each occurring September 24, 25, and 26 at $76.

Guests must be 21+ and able to provide a government-issued ID.

Residents of jurisdictions where alcohol is prohibited by local law are not eligible to book this experience.

¹Brought to you by Airbnb. There is no cost to submit a request. See full rules for terms, including age and geographic eligibility, and how data is used.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

2024-08-01T08:31:00

(BPT) – Travel is always in season, but don’t let the excitement of planning your next trip cause you to skip necessary safety precautions before you go away. Staying informed about where you’re traveling and being well-prepared for your trip is one of the best ways to help you soak in the destination to the fullest, allowing you to be at ease and on full vacation mode.

Here are some top travel tips and considerations provided by leading travel insurance and assistance company Allianz Partners USA for staying safe and informed wherever you go.

Purchase travel insurance. Some travelers may not think they’re spending enough money on their trip to warrant purchasing travel insurance. Beyond protecting the financial investment of pre-paid flights, hotels and tours, one of the primary reasons to purchase travel insurance is for emergency medical and emergency medical transportation benefits. An emergency hospital visit or medical evacuation, especially when traveling overseas, can be a significant expense. Since many foreign healthcare providers don’t accept U.S. healthcare plans, a hospital bill can be significantly more than the cost of travel insurance coverage with post-departure benefits. Not only can travel insurance protect your wallet from covered medical emergencies, but a reliable travel insurance provider can also provide 24/7 travel assistance with a dedicated team to help with everything from making sure you’re receiving the proper medical care to guaranteeing payment for a covered medical emergency. You’ll never feel alone when you have a travel assistance team behind you.

Have a plan if you get canceled on or need to cancel. While an early morning trip to the airport isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, opting for one of the day’s first departures can guard against missing a day of your vacation. Even if your early morning flight is canceled, it’s possible you can still get to your destination the same day if there is another flight or airline flying that afternoon or evening. If you book a late afternoon or evening flight, chances are that flight was the last option, and you may be stuck with finding a hotel room and starting your vacation a day late. Another scenario is you needing to cancel your vacation yourself. If you purchase a travel insurance policy with cancellation benefits when you book your trip, you may be able to receive a refund of your pre-paid, non-refundable travel deposits if you have to cancel for a reason covered by your policy (for example, your child unexpectedly takes a tumble on the trampoline and ends up with a broken bone, so you can no longer travel).

Medications aren’t the same around the world. If you find yourself needing to purchase over-the-counter medication while on an international trip, the local pharmacy might not immediately recognize the product you request. The new Allyz® TravelSmart mobile app from Allianz Partners offers free travel services on download, has a medical dictionary to help you find your desired medication and identify the global pharmaceutical name to share with the pharmacist to secure a local equivalent. If you’re not sure what medication would help best, the app also features a medical translator to source keywords to describe how you’re feeling, from a headache, earache, fever and more, and can translate the word or phrase into the native language.

Know what to do in case of a medical or safety emergency. Thinking about what to do in case of an emergency abroad isn’t fun, but it’s important to consider. Not only does the Allyz® TravelSmart app include a hospital finder to quickly direct you to nearby healthcare facilities, but it also can deliver Geo-located Safety and Security Alerts to warn you of any danger in the area where you’re traveling, major or minor, and an embassy finder that will point you to the closest U.S. embassy. It’s security, in the palm of your hand. The app also has quick access to local emergency numbers. Simply choose the country you’re traveling in, and the local fire department, emergency and police department numbers will appear for you to call if experiencing an emergency. Bonus tip: Parents, you’ll sleep easier if your college kids have these features handy when they’re taking a semester abroad. Whether traveling internationally or domestically, the travel insurance company also provides its customers access to a 24/7 travel assistance team, who can talk you through security and medical dilemmas over the phone.

Traveling is a great way to spend your vacation time any time of year, and making sure you’re taking precautions to stay as safe as possible can set you up for a successful and worry-free trip. For more information, visit allianztravelinsurance.com, or download the Allyz® TravelSmart app for travel organization and information in the palm of your hand.

2024-08-01T08:05:00

(BPT) – Are you feeling overwhelmed by managing healthcare for yourself or loved ones? Most Americans report feeling that way — 65%, according to a new Harris Poll on behalf of the AAPA. The survey found people are spending the equivalent of one full workday each month, eight hours, managing healthcare for themselves and their loved ones.

Just think of how long you wait on the phone to schedule a doctor’s appointment, ask a question, or request a prescription refill. Given that, it’s not surprising that 73% of us feel the healthcare system is not meeting our needs.

It’s especially worrisome because all that hassle can lead people to skip or even delay healthcare. With the rise in cancer rates among young people and the current mental health crisis in this country, keeping up with one’s own healthcare and that of loved ones should be a priority.

Can technology help? After all, technology allows us to order anything online and have it arrive on our doorsteps later that day, apply for (and get) a mortgage with a few clicks on our smartphones, and control everything in our houses from the palms of our hands.

It should be able to help streamline the healthcare process, right?

The answer is yes. The right patient experience tools, like the NextGen^® Closed Loop™ Patient & Practice Experience from NextGen Healthcare, can minimize the hassle involved in managing healthcare for you and your loved ones.

Unfortunately, as a patient or caretaker for a loved one, you can’t choose what technology your doctor uses. But don’t be afraid to ask the practice what patient experience options they offer and how you can make the most of them. And, when you’re seeking a new doctor, look for those with robust offerings that cover the entirety of your experience with them and will make managing your care the most convenient. Ask any healthcare practice you’re evaluating about their approach to the following:

1. Access. It’s essential that tools are in place for effective communication with the practice — after all, this is your health we’re talking about. A messaging function should be in place for you to ask questions at any time and convenient self-scheduling allows you to schedule appointments on your time. Ideally, you’ll also be able to join a virtual waitlist to secure preferred appointment times when they become available.
2. Intake. The check-in process at doctor visits has long been a burden for everyone involved. A good patient experience platform can streamline this process, allowing you to request and schedule appointments, securely upload necessary information, and complete paperwork before you even step inside the practice.
3. Visits. Your patient portal should have the functionality to enable virtual visits with your doctor or care team for many types of visits — ensuring that you receive the care you need without any barriers.
4. Health management. This includes access to electronic bill pay and digital patient education resources. Everything you need to manage your healthcare should be available at your fingertips from anywhere. In some cases, your practice may even be able to offer remote patient monitoring to manage care for a variety of chronic conditions.
5. Care coordination. You’ll want automated messaging, the ability to fill and refill medications easily, and a way to participate in patient surveys so you can be certain that your feedback is heard.

The right technology can be a powerful tool for streamlining the healthcare experience and making it much more manageable. It gives you, the patient, more control throughout life’s many health journeys — leading to healthier futures for you and your loved ones.

Visit NextGen.com to learn more.

2024-08-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – Planning a getaway? Make sure to double-check you’ve packed your phone charger, sunglasses, medication and toiletries — items people typically realize (to their horror) they’ve left behind when they arrive at their destination. It’s common to forget items like these when you’re caught up in the whirlwind of getting out the door for your well-deserved time off. One thing you shouldn’t forget: Staying hydrated while you’re there. But for many, that’s not easy to do.

According to a new survey by Talker Research on behalf of CG Roxane, 40% of travelers find it difficult to stay hydrated during their vacation. They just plain forget to down those eight glasses per day or they’re more focused on the fun and attractions and find the day gets away from them. The survey found only 22% of Americans monitor how much water they’re drinking each day on vacation.

Another possible reason people slip out of their hydration routines on vacation? The majority of travelers (65%) are concerned about the quality of the tap water at their destination, be it their hotel room or the local restaurants.

“Everyone knows that summer brings travel and fun, but it also brings higher temperatures and a greater chance for dehydration,” said CG Roxane VP of Marketing Anne-Charlotte de La Porte. “With Americans concerned about consuming tap water or forgetting to drink water in general, it’s no surprise that staying hydrated when traveling is difficult for so many.”

Especially in this summer of unprecedented heat, it’s important to keep on top of your water intake when you’re seeing the sights or relaxing on the beach. Some ways to do that include:

Keep bottled water in your hotel room. This is an enormous help with hydration, and it also allays people’s concerns about the quality of water coming out of the tap in their hotel rooms. Pop a couple of bottles into your mini-fridge, and stash a gallon-size bottle on the bathroom counter for brushing your teeth — CG Roxane’s survey also revealed that one in three (29%) of Americans brush their teeth with bottled water vs. the tap water at their destination — and filling up the coffee maker in the morning. Crystal Geyser^® Alpine Spring Water^® is the number one nationally distributed bottled spring water in the United States and is a product of CG Roxane, which bottles water at its natural spring source.

Monitor your intake. Keep track of how much you’re drinking each day.

Plan ahead. Think about the day’s activities, and plan for how much water you’ll need. Going to the beach? Make sure to pack a water bottle for each person into your beach bag. Hiking in a state park? Everyone tucks a bottle into their backpacks. Crystal Geyser^® Alpine Spring Water^® is the perfect ally for this — it comes in a wide range of bottle shapes and sizes so you can plan to take what you need. For the 47% of Americans that would like to see tethered caps on their bottled beverages, select 8oz bottles are now also available with an EZ cap option, keeping caps in place, allowing consumers both ease and peace of mind while minimizing environmental impact.

Set reminders. Alarms on your phone can keep you on track for good hydration.

Limit dehydrating drinks. Avoiding alcohol, coffee and sugary drinks will ensure you’re not working against your own hydration levels.

Listen to your body. Be aware of the signs of dehydration, including thirst, fatigue, headaches or dizziness.

By following these tips, you’ll stay hydrated on your travels. Now, get out there and enjoy your time off!

For more information about CG Roxane and its Crystal Geyser^® Alpine Spring Water^® products visit CrystalGeyserPlease.com.

*Data from a survey conducted by Talker Research, Market Research Society (MRS) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR), on behalf of CG Roxane from July 1 to July 8, 2024, with a panel of 2,000 general population Americans.

2024-08-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – The landscape of work in America is evolving. As the freelance economy rapidly grows, more people are seeking careers that are both flexible and fulfilling. According to Statista, the freelance sector reached $445.2 billion in the U.S. last year, more than doubling since 2018, and it continues to expand. Currently, 64 million Americans are engaged in freelance work, making up 38% of the workforce, with projections suggesting it will increase to 50% by 2027.

Thinking about leaving your traditional nine-to-five job? You might consider roles such as rideshare driving, delivery services, personal shopping or freelance work in your current field. However, there’s another option that offers significant benefits, flexibility and fulfillment: substitute teaching. Substitute teaching provides a unique opportunity that transcends typical freelance work, elevating it to a highly respected and impactful career choice.

The Hidden Gem of Substitute Teaching

Although demand for substitute teachers has been on the rise since before the pandemic, many people are unaware that working as a substitute teacher can offer the flexibility often associated with freelance work without requiring previous experience in teaching. It’s an opportunity that provides both personal and professional rewards, and Kelly Education — the nation’s most trusted source for educational workforce solutions — can help. Here’s why substitute teaching stands out:

You don’t need a teaching degree. From classroom instruction to special education, tutoring, nursing, and food services, each role in education generally comes with specific requirements; however, you typically don’t need a specialized education degree to become a substitute teacher. This opens the door for many who are passionate about education but may not have the formal qualifications.

You are not on your own. Kelly Education provides free training to ensure you are well-prepared and confident when you step into your first classroom. Substitute educator training equips you with knowledge, tactics and skills essential for thriving in a classroom environment and enhancing student learning. Plus, you’ll receive compensation for post-hire orientation on district-specific policies and procedures.

You decide your schedule. One of the greatest advantages of substitute teaching is the ability to create a schedule that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities, ensuring you never miss out on what truly matters in your life.

You get benefits. Unlike typical freelance work, substitute teachers working with Kelly Education have access to ACA-compliant healthcare coverage, optional medical, dental and vision plans, retirement savings programs, bonuses and more.

You are paid weekly. Financial stability is crucial, and with Kelly, you get paid every Friday, ensuring a consistent income stream.

It’s a growing field. As the educator shortage continues nationwide, substitute teaching is a field with tremendous potential for growth. The need for qualified substitute teachers is increasing, providing ample opportunities for those interested. Additionally, substitute teaching can serve as a pathway to full-time opportunities within the education sector.

It’s an enriching next chapter. Substitute teaching is ideal for recent graduates exploring career options, individuals considering a long-term commitment to education, and retirees looking for a fulfilling way to supplement their income. The diversity of backgrounds among substitute teachers — healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, college students and more — enriches the classroom environment.

By choosing substitute teaching, you can make a meaningful impact on students’ lives while enjoying the flexibility and autonomy you desire. Each substitute teacher brings unique experiences and skills to the classroom, contributing to a richer educational experience for students.

Interested in learning more? Contact Kelly Education to get started on your journey as a substitute teacher.