Poor women in Indias villages are more likely to take up jobs if their wages can be deposited into their bank accounts and they can be trained in digital banking, a September 2019 study by the US-based National Bureau Of Economic Research has concluded. This eases patriarchal social norms and increases empowerment among the one section of Indian society with the least labour market experience, it added.

If poor, rural women can control their access to wages through bank accounts and receive adequate training for handling it, they are more likely to join or continue in the labour workforce in India, the study found. It also helped in accommodating changes in gender norms on women going to work: The study found that women who received digital deposits and training were more likely to hold female work in high regard. Although their husbands did not change their personal beliefs, they became less likely to report that husbands suffer social costs when their wives work.

Researchers used randomised control trials to study the effects of channelling womens wages under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, into their individually-controlled bank accounts, and not the account of the head of their family, typically a man.

Women who received digital wage deposits as well as the training to use their bank accounts, were found to be working more, as we said earlier, in both jobs generated by MGNREGS and the private sector. This increase occurred even though the market wage remained static.

The study was conducted in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh state government and the rural development ministry in socially conservative areas in the northern pockets of the state Gwalior, Morena, Sheopur and Shivpur.

Despite robust economic growth, the female labour force participation rate has declined from 37% in 1990 to 28% in 2015, making Indian women some of the least employed in the world, the study noted. Indias growth trajectory and the well-being of its population, will depend on how well it uses public policy to lower barriers to female employment, it said.

Policy, when appropriately designed, can empower women in homes and even dilute common patriarchal norms, said Charity Troyer Moore, co-author of the study and director for South Asia Economics Research at The Whitney and Betty MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies at Yale University.

By working with women to open accounts, training them on how to use the accounts, and linking those accounts to NREGS so they could receive their wages as mandated, we see important improvements in womens financial activity, paid work, especially in the private sector, and views on women and work, she said.

While global gender parity will not be attained for 100 years, India has fallen four spots to 112 among 153 economies since 2018, as per the World Economic Forums Global Gender Gap Report 2020.

The economic gender gap runs particularly deep in India, the report noted. Only one-third of the gap has been bridged. Since 2006, the gap has gotten significantly wider. Among the 153 countries studied, India is the only country where the economic gender gap [ranked 149th] is larger than the political gender gap.

Only one-quarter of women, compared with 82% of men, engage actively in the labour market [working or looking for work] one of the lowest participation rates in the world [145th] and estimated female income is a mere one-fifth of male income, which is also among the worlds lowest, the report noted.

Indias gender issue is a jobs issue womens overall well-being has fallen as access to work outside their homes has declined, and especially as women move out of agriculture in rural areas, said Moore. There is a multitude of challenges to helping women access employment, but increasing demand in sectors that suit womens practical circumstances seems to be key here.

Many of the policy efforts undertaken to support women focus on their specific role as a household caregiver or mother. Though important, it should not be given at the expense of other efforts, like hiring more local women to serve in frontline work to support their communities development, and encouraging employment for young women who are out of school and not yet married, Moore added.

The study conducted randomised control trials in 197 gram panchayats, and in 67 of these, womens bank accounts were linked to their MGNREGS wages and provided basic financial training to ensure they understand how to use their accounts if they decided to work. The study was conducted between 2013 and 2014, prior to the start of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana targeting Indias unbanked population. Follow-up surveys were then conducted in 2015 and 2017.

The study then compared outcomes for women who only received only bank accounts with those who additionally received direct deposit of MGNREGS wages and bank account training direct deposit and training. Low levels of engagement with the formal banking sector beyond simple withdrawals and deposits by women and marginalised communities suggest that universal account ownership does not necessarily translate to financial inclusion or the ability to use banking services effectively, IndiaSpend reported on May 17, 2018. In 2015-16, 53% of women used a bank account in their own name, according to the fourth National Family Health Survey data.

The intervention found long- and short-term benefits in the group. Three years after the intervention, women used their accounts more frequently and more women were able to go to a bank to operate their accounts.

Women living in gram panchayats where training was offered to operate bank accounts worked more, as we said earlier, than those who only had individual bank accounts opened for them. Further, the impact was more among women who had least or no work experience in the study, those who had never worked for MGNREGS. These women have been classified as socially constrained to reflect that they are less likely to work, less empowered, and that their husbands are more likely to oppose female work.

The transfers to individually-controlled bank accounts empower women to assert themselves in their families, the authors surmise. So giving a woman better outside options to the status quo may help her bargain and assert her preferences, which can result in increased mobility, said Moore.

Three years later, in 2017, socially constrained women reported an increased ability to spend and greater freedom to move about. After three years, their empowerment score was increased, effectively closing the empowerment gap between constrained and unconstrained women.

The study found that, compared to women who were given only bank accounts, those women who received digital deposits and training were more likely to hold female work in high regard. Although their husbands did not change their personal beliefs they became less likely to report that husbands suffer social costs when their wives work, the study reported.

Gender norms became more progressive in families where women controlled their wages, the study found. The actual norms average personal beliefs about women and work of women who received direct deposit and training were more progressive than those of women in accounts-only areas. Moreover, on average, the community was more accepting of working women.

Although husbands actual norms remained unchanged, perceived norms among men in the community were significantly liberalised, with greater perceived acceptance of working womens husbands, suggesting that women may in part be held back from working by mens misperceptions of the stigma they would suffer, the study said.

There are signs of womens increased decision-making and financial independence, but that does not necessarily come at a cost to men, said Moore. The results on decisions hinge around whether women report higher involvement in either deciding or helping decide how to spend money and whether to work outside the home so an increase in womens power here would not necessarily mean mens influence declined, since they could be making more joint decisions.

The study is significant for programmes such as MGNREGS which aim to include and empower women through employment, offering them equal wages, the study says. Policies that cause women to increase engagement with those outside their families are likely to change social norms, especially as more conservative men change their beliefs about the consequences of adopting or accommodating progressive behaviours.

One thing our study didnt speak to is that limited mobility also reflects individual and household concerns about safety and violence against women, which are valid concerns, said Moore. This is where policy can play an important role. It can work to ensure public spaces are safe and open to both men and women, she added, to improve responsiveness to reports about harassment and violence, and to be responsive to womens inputs on these issues.

This article first appeared on IndiaSpend, a data-driven and public-interest journalism non-profit.

See the original post here:
What women in rural Madhya Pradesh want: Jobs with direct access to their wages - Scroll.in

Aerie launches initiative to award $400,000 to 20 real-life changemakers who are making a difference in their communities

NEW YORK American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) today announces that Aerie will welcome actor Lana Condor, actor and writer Beanie Feldstein, actor and writer Hari Nef, Tony award winning actor Ali Stroker, sustainability activist Manuela Barn, founder of Smile On Me Dre Thomas, DJ and wellness advocate Tiff McFierce, and scientist and CEO Keiana Cav as #AerieREAL Role Models. These eight inspiring women will be joined by current Role Models Aly Raisman, Iskra, Brenna Huckaby, Molly Burke and Jenna Kutcher.

#AerieREAL Role Models spread the brands mission to love your real selfinside and out. They empower and inspire the Aerie community to be the change they want to see in the world through leadership, advocacy, workshops and philanthropic partnerships. As one of the fastest growing brands in the apparel industry, Aerie is equally committed to creating exceptional merchandise collections for its customers while positively influencing the way women see themselves and treat others.

Through the #AerieREAL Change Initiative that launches today, Aerie and the Role Models are taking action and changing the game. Its time to get up, get out and get involved. Aerie will award 20 real-life changemakers with $20,000 to help them on their journey in making the world a better place.

Six years ago, Aerie took the game-changing leap to stop airbrushing its modelswhich ignited a body positivity movement that has empowered women around the world to let their real selves shine, commented Jennifer Foyle, Aerie Global Brand President. We believe everyone has the power to be a changemaker. Together with our incredible Role Models, we cannot wait to award $400,000 to 20 fierce and inspiring members of the #AerieREAL community.

About the #AerieREAL Role Models:

About the #AerieREAL Change Initiative

About #AerieREAL

About Aerie

Aerie is a lifestyle brand offering intimates, apparel, activewear and swim collections. With the #AerieREAL movement, Aerie celebrates its community by advocating for body positivity and the empowerment of all women. Aerie believes in inspiring customers to love their real selves, inside and out. Retouching-free since 2014. Visit http://www.aerie.com to learn more. Let the Real You Shine.

About American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) is a leading global specialty retailer offering high-quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products at affordable prices under its American Eagle and Aerie brands. Our purpose is to show the world that theres REAL power in the optimism of youth. The company operates more than 1,000 stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico, China and Hong Kong, and ships to 81 countries worldwide through its websites. American Eagle and Aerie merchandise also is available at more than 200 international locations operated by licensees in 25 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.aeo-inc.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200123005191/en/

Contacts

Matthew Owens SHADOW Phone: 212.972.0277 Matthew@weareshadow.com

Read the original:
Aerie Introduces Eight New #AerieREAL Role Models to Inspire You to Make 2020 the Year of Change - Financial Post

They call it "compassion fatigue," the burnout that people in our line of work experience. In the nonprofit sector, we work for more than a paycheck, opening our hearts and minds to the needs of others. And sooner or later, that takes a toll.

Mental health has become a huge challenge in all sectors. An estimated 83% of U.S. workers report significant work-related stress, costing businesses as much as $300 billion per year in absenteeism and treatment-related expenses.

Its worse for professional do-gooders. Driven by passion, nonprofit workers put in long hours for significantly less than they would earn in the private sector because they believe in the cause. Those who work closely with vulnerable and at-risk populations can experience "vicarious trauma," the emotional residue that comes with witnessing trauma and taking your work personally. In Calgary, Canada, one study observed people who worked with the homeless and found that 25% were suffering from burnout, while 36% showed symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

The risks of compassion fatigue are never far from mind in our household. I have spent 25 years working in the charitable sector. My partner, Leysa, works with nonprofits and healthcare professionals, teaching them how to cope with stress and vicarious trauma as a mindfulness coach. Weve both learned how to be more mindful at home and at work, and we strive to share those practices.

When it comes to employee wellness, nonprofits dont usually have the resources to install full-time yoga studios and smoothie bars in our offices like big tech companies do. Nevertheless, there are cost-effective measures nonprofit employers can implement to avoid compassion fatigue and promote employee well-being. Here are a few steps you can take:

Create a mindful team

Stress management and self-care are learned techniques. Offer your team a basic level of mental health literacy to help them spot the signals that their well-being, or that of a co-worker, is at risk. Like all skills, these things must be taught.

If you have the resources, enroll your team in a mindfulness-based stress reduction course, such as the one developed by the University of Massachusetts. There are also cost-free resources (and it doesnt hurt to ask for a charitable discount). Our staff at WE used "Teach" mental health literacy and care resources developed by the University of British Columbia, a free program.

To ensure that self-care is more than a one-time thing, ask two or three people to volunteer for training as instructors, and have them conduct mindfulness sessions throughout the year as an ongoing resource for their co-workers.

Build connections

Loneliness and isolation contribute to mental health issues. You can combat them by boosting interpersonal connectedness in your work environment. But that takes more than awkward holiday office parties once a year.

Go out for lunch as a team. Host mini-events like Taco Tuesday or Waffle Wednesday to bring a little low-pressure fun and interaction to the office. At WE, our teams celebrate "workaversaries" and made it part of our culture to give shout-outs or notes of gratitude when someone meets a milestone with the organization. Instituting these practices interdepartmentally or in larger meetings can help different teams better understand what the others do, further improving overall organizational cohesion.

Create safe spaces

WE created an anonymous online reporting system and conducts annual staff surveys (also anonymous) with comprehensive questions about job satisfaction and workplace challenges. Its a safe space to share concerns. Survey responses help the organization identify areas for improvement so we can create a better -- and less stressful -- work experience.

When possible, give everyone a chance to speak up and share whats on their minds during team and organizational meetings.

Remember: Time is well-being

Mental health breaks and me time arent just expressions; theyre wellness tools. After a particularly intensive or stressful project or activity, give your staff some paid time off. Our WE Day staff spends weeks on the road every year, working long days around each of our 18 youth empowerment events in stadiums across North America and the U.K.. We give them all a day off after every event to rest and reenergize.

Wellness time is also essential when front-line staff works with vulnerable individuals or traumatic situations. If a staff member handles a bad case of domestic violence or experiences the death of a homeless client theyve worked with, they need healing time. Keep a list of local counselors and other support services if they need it, and update the list regularly.

In general, a flexible workplace enables your team to work around time challenges in their personal lives. Parents who are not on leave should be welcome to bring their babies to work from time to time. If schools close for inclement weather and parents cant find childcare at the last minute, WE invite our staff to bring school-aged children to the office should they choose.

Integrate wellness from Day 1

Include mental health and well-being in your onboarding process for new staff members. Walk them through all of the policies, programs and other mental health-related initiatives at your organization. Let them know that wellness is part of your culture.

They say that giving starts at home. Well, so does well-being. As nonprofits, we care about the well-being of the world we live in. That begins with ensuring the well-being of those passionate individuals who work with us.

Here is the original post:
How To Avoid Compassion Fatigue: Care For Your Staff So They Can Care For The World - Forbes

IDPs

Barkin Ladi (Plateau) The Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), of the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos, on Saturday donated improved seedlings to 50 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at Ban, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA), of Plateau.

Presenting the seedlings, Rev. Fr. Polycarp Gana, the Assistant Coordinator of the NGO, said the gesture was aimed at alleviating the sufferings of the IDPs.

Gana, who said the gesture was supported by the Irish Aid, added that it would also encourage the IDPs, particularly those of them who are farmers to have more and better yields.

He said by supporting displaced persons to go into farming, it would enable them fend for themselves and increase their personal income; as well as that of the state.

We were here shortly before Christmas and donated food items to you, today we have come again, but to support you with some improved seedlings and seeds to support your farming activities.

We all know that majority of you are farmers, and now that you are gradually returning to your homes, we feel it is right to support you with these to encourage your farming activities.

We cannot continue to feed you forever, but teaching or encouraging you to feed yourselves is better and more rewarding.

So, after a careful assessment, we have selected 50 farmers among you to start with, and have come with improved seedlings of Irish potatoes, seeds of tomato, cabbage, and maize to give them, he said.

The Assistant Coordinator urged the beneficiaries to ensure the seedlings were put into good for their personal benefit, and the community at large.

He warned that anyone caught selling the seedlings would be blacklisted and denied any further support from the organisation.

Meanwhile, the organisation also donated sundry items to 340 displaced households in Bokkos LGA camps.

Gana, who presented the items, also said the gesture was aimed at encouraging them to maintain personal hygiene and sanitation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the items donated include bathing and washing soaps, body creams, detergents, towels and blankets, among others

He said poor personal hygiene and sanitation accounted for the continued spread of communicable diseases, particularly among rural dwellers.

In separate responses on behalf of the beneficiaries, the camp leaders, Mr Irimiya Magit and Mr Mandong John, thanked JDPC for the gesture and assured the organisation that the items would be used judiciously.

They called on government to support them in rebuilding their communities as they were eager to return to their homes.

(NAN)

MTN empowers 2,000 Nigerian with Kiosk as a Service scheme

FRSC doctorates 25 newly promoted officers in Nsukka

Read this article:
NGO donates improved seedlings, other items to IDPs in Plateau - SundiataPost

KUWAIT: Gulf Bank is committed to maintaining a robust sustainability program and plays a vital role in contributing to the markets in which they operate in ways that extend well beyond finance. Throughout the years, Gulf Bank has been a leader in shedding light on major global challenges. By spearheading multiple corporate social responsibility initiatives, Gulf Bank has not only inspired local and regional enterprises, but is also leading by example on an international level with its unique approach to sustainability.

In 2019, Gulf Banks corporate social responsibility initiatives went hand in hand with international efforts, aligning with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Also known as the Global Goals, the SDGs were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.

Gulf Bank proudly spearheaded a number of corporate social responsibility efforts in 2019, with an approach that consists of three pillars: community sustainability, economic sustainability, and environmental sustainability. Through a combination of efforts on all of these fronts, Gulf Bank proudly met a majority of the UNs Sustainable Development Goals.

Commenting on Gulf Banks ongoing commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility, Lujain Al-Qenaei, Assistant Manager for External Communications at Gulf Bank, said: Much like how the United Nations is shedding a spotlight on major global challenges, we recognize how important it is for larger enterprises to do their part on a local and national level. At Gulf Bank, we are not only aware of our role, but we are proud to take it on.

We also believe that the UNs 17 SDGs are all interconnected, and that long-lasting development must strike a balance between community, economic and environmental sustainability. We are proud to see so many of our initiatives moving hand in hand with international efforts, and are looking forward to paving the way for even more initiatives to come in hopes for a more sustainable future for our beloved Kuwait.

Community Sustainability Throughout 2019, Gulf Banks community sustainability efforts aligned with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals: 2) Zero Hunger, 3) Good Health and Wellbeing, 4) Quality Education, 5) Gender Equality, 8) Decent Work and Economic Growth, 9) Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, 11) Sustainable Cities and Communities, and 17) Partnerships for the Goals.

As one of the most important social sporting events in the country, the annual Gulf Bank 642 Marathon aims to raise the level of health awareness and encourage the local community to adopt a healthier lifestyle. By partnering with Kuwait Red Crescent Society this year, Gulf Bank was able to assist in bringing medical aid to those who are unable to afford medical treatment. This years marathon attracted more than 9,300 participants representing over 100 nationalities from around the world, and more than 300 volunteers.

Gulf Bank is also keen on promoting a message of inclusion and diversity when it comes to hiring. Gulf Bank this year proudly employed 10 people with special needs among various branches, taking into account the unique needs of each individual. The Bank continues to strive to ensure to achieve gender equality and empowering women throughout the organization to deliver on the Banks mandate. Currently there are 43 percent female staff in comparison to 57 percent male staff. The bank was one of the first Banks in Kuwait to become a signatory of the Womens Empowerment Principles (WEPs) initiative by the United Nations to promote gender equality and womens economic empowerment.

The Bank has a strong focus on developing Kuwaiti professionals. In terms of human capital initiatives, the Banks graduate development program AJYAL is widely recognized for its intensive training to shape the future of banking in Kuwait. Accepting 21 applicants, AJYAL spans six months and aims to help candidates develop key banking skills, cultivating holistic bankers that have shown growth potential on both a personal and professional level. Since the programs inception in 2014, five generations have graduated with a total of 85 employees, to date.

Gulf Bank also demonstrated its commitment to preserving Kuwaiti heritage and traditions by sponsoring the production of Memoirs of a Sailor, an epic musical comprised of poems from the Kuwaiti poet Mohammed Al-Fayez. The production took place during the second quarter of the year at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center.

During 2019, the bank also hosted a number of family fun activities, including a Reading Fun Day for children to encourage reading and learning, in collaboration with That Al Salasil. Gulf Bank also held a Bring Your Kids To Work for their employees and their children. Throughout the year, Gulf Bank also participated in and sponsored Qout Market.

As part of Gulf Banks commitment to supporting and empowering Kuwaiti youth, Gulf Bank also sponsored the annual National Union of Kuwaiti Students (NUKS) Conference in the United States. During the summer, applications for Gulf Banks summer internship program were also available to interested student applicants. Gulf Bank also organized a mobile photography training workshop for aspiring photographers in collaboration with mobile accessories store, Cavaraty.

Gulf Bank also spearheaded other charitable activities during the holy month of Ramadan, including partnering with the Kuwait Food Bank and Saveco to distribute maachla foodstuff boxes to local families in need. Gulf Bank also launched a social media activation in recognition of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle during the holy month. The community initiative, titled Ten Minutes, consisted of a series of short social media episodes highlighting unique tips on how viewers can live a healthier lifestyle by enhancing their nutrition, mental health, fitness, and general well-being in only ten minutes.

In 2019, Gulf Bank also launched Al-Tijouri, an entertaining escape room competition in which teams from all across the country joined together to solve puzzles and compete for cash prizes. The activation, which took place in Phase 3 of The Avenues over the course of three days, resulted in a total of three winning teams, each of whom took home a KD 300 cash prize for solving the escape room in the least amount of time.

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the bank launched a series of initiatives, including partnering with Mowasat Hospital and other local hospitals to provide special offers, exclusively for Gulf Bank clients, that aim to make the process of getting checked more convenient and more accessible. Throughout the month, the Bank also lit up its head office branch in Kuwait City in pink in an effort to encourage everyone to learn more about breast cancer.

Economic Sustainability In the past year, Gulf Banks economic sustainability efforts also aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals of: 4) Quality Education, 5) Gender Equality, 8) Decent Work and Economic Growth, 9) Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and 17) Partnerships for the Goals.

In keeping with annual tradition, Gulf Bank extended its support to INJAZ Kuwait, a non-profit, non-governmental organization for education and training in workforce readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship. As part of our strategic partnership with INJAZ, Gulf Bank sponsored numerous educational and entrepreneurial courses for high school and college students across both the public and private sectors.

To date, Gulf Bank has participated in five INJAZ Al-Arab programs, two INJAZ Kuwait Job Shadow Days, seven INJAZ Kuwait Innovation Camps and four INJAZ Kuwait Entrepreneurship Master Class workshops. Additionally, 282 Gulf Bank staff members have volunteered their time and efforts at numerous schools and universities across Kuwait, inspiring over 3,275 students.

This year, Gulf Bank has also extended its economic sustainability role to social media. In an effort to promote financial literacy and create a culture of financial awareness, Gulf Banks Economic Research Unit prepares weekly videos on topics including fintech, investment, saving, and general tidbits about the state of the economy. The one-minute tips are delivered by Tareq Al-Saleh, Deputy General Manager of the Economic Research Unit at Gulf Bank, and are aired across Gulf Banks various social media channels.

Gulf Bank also participated in a number of other activities as part of its ongoing efforts to improve the local business environment. In October 2019, Gulf Bank hosted a real estate market focus group to discuss the current state of the real estate market and its latest developments. Gulf Bank also sponsored the Central Bank of Kuwaits annual International Banking Conference.

In collaboration with the Manpower Restructuring Program, Gulf Bank also held the first-ever career fair for people with disabilities in Kuwait. In January 2019, Gulf Bank employees also participated in the Fikra Program, designed to equip Kuwaiti youth with the essential business skills and knowledge required to transform their ideas into businesses.

Environmental Sustainability Gulf Bank is committed to environmental conservation and sustainability with its community sustainability efforts in 2019 going hand in hand with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals: 12) Responsible Consumption and Production, 14) Life Below Water, 15) Life On Land, and 13) Climate Action.

In 2019, the bank partnered with Omniya, a nationwide recycling initiative founded in 2015 by young Kuwaitis aiming to raise awareness for waste recycling. Through this partnership, the Bank committed to recycling paper and plastic waste, and strategically distributed recycling receptacles in front of Gulf Banks Head Office. By placing the recycling receptacles in one of the most visible locations in the heart of Kuwait City, Gulf Bank is raising awareness for recycling not only with its employees, but also with members of the local community.

The bank also held a beach cleanup at the Kuwait Towers as part of its commitment to Earth Day. A non-profit NGO provided an awareness session on the hazardous effects pollutants have on our environment and assisted Gulf Bank employees in cleaning the beach. The Bank also joins global community efforts in reducing power consumption during Earth Hour, a worldwide initiative that encourages individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights.

With multiple CSR initiatives throughout the year, Gulf Bank is setting an example for local and regional players to make even more progress in line with international efforts by the United Nations. Through a combination of efforts promoting community, economic and environmental sustainability, Gulf Bank is proud to wrap up 2019 with an impressive round-up of CSR initiatives and activities, with even more initiatives to come in 2020.

See the article here:
Gulf Bank's 2019 sustainability efforts progress in line with global efforts by the United Nations - Kuwait Times

Services and studies

Dayspring Church Apostolic Worship begins at 11:15 a.m. at the church, 27 Doctors Park Drive, Columbus. On Sunday, the church will be inspired by, You Are Overcomers. This is taken from 1 John 2:12-14 where, and you have overcome the wicked one Every visitor will receive a free gift.

The Sunday Education Session starts at 10 a.m. and covers Parable of the Soils, as shared in Luke 8:4-15.

Bible Study is Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. and is a Group Session sponsored by Heart Changers International, LLC on Depression, Stress and Grief with hand out questions. These help build our Personal Empowerment and walk.

Our Prayer of Power starts at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday and is preceded with requests and instructions on prayer.

The Celebrate Recovery Group session starts at 6:30 p.m. for about an hour.

Ignite is the Youth Growth Session that happens every third Friday.

For more information please call (812) 372- 9336, or email dayspringchurch@att.net.

East Columbus United Methodist Sunday events begin at 9 a.m. at East Columbus United Methodist Church at 2439 Indiana Ave. in Columbus, with fellowship time in the foyer with beverages and snacks. Worship begins at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School begins at 10:40 a.m. for all ages and Bible interests.

First Presbyterian In 2020, the church will focus on their sense of call. To what is God calling people as individuals, as a congregation? The sermon for this Second Sunday after Epiphany will be on the parables of the sower and the mustard seed, Mark 4:1-34, and will be titled: Stories of Growth.

Worship begins at 9:30 a.m., 512 Seventh Street in Columbus. Infant and toddler care is available 9:15 a.m. to noon. The Mens and Womens Support Groups meet on Fridays at 7 a.m., and a second Mens Support group (working age men) meets every Monday at 6:15 a.m.

People in the community in need of a meal are invited to our Hot Meals offered Friday at 5 p.m. (please enter through the glass doors on Franklin). We are an LGBTQ-friendly church. Open and affirming to ALL.

Information: fpccolumbus.org.

First United Methodist On Sunday, Jan. 19, at the 9 a.m. Traditional Service and 11:00 AM The Table, Reverend Howard Boles will deliver the message, Come and See at the church, 618 Eighth Street. The scripture will be John 1:29-42.

Sunday School for all ages begins at 10:10 a.m. Childcare is available during the service.

Weekly on Thursday through February 27, FUMC will have a Grief Support Group that will support and guide those who have endured loss. They will explore grief using Julie Yarbroughs book, Beyond the Broken Heart: A Journey Through Grief. It will take place in the Blue Room (Room 216) at the church at 6:15 p.m., and is open to anyone. For more information, call the church office at 812-372-2851.

On Monday, join FUMC for their 7th Annual First Cares event. From 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., they will be doing work in and for the community. There will be opportunities to help both at the church and throughout the community, including helping church members tie blankets, writing cards for service men and women and church VIP members, completing small projects at selected church members houses, and helping at Turning Point or the Humane Society. Anyone is welcome to help out during this morning of service.

On Friday, at 7:00 p.m., FUMC will host the Laura Andrews String Studio Recital. Come and hear the young stars of tomorrow! Admission is free, and donations are encouraged.

On Sunday, January 26, FUMC will host its first Life Planning Seminar. Possible topics include end-of-life planning, assisted living and funeral planning, and financial planning topics like retirement and college planning. The goal is to help people plan better in order to find peace in the challenges that come up throughout life when dealing with financial and end-of-life planning. There will be a dinner at 5:15 p.m. with the session to follow at 6:00. Anyone in the community is welcome to attend.

Information: 812-372-2851 or fumccolumbus.org.

Flintwood Wesleyan The church is located at 5300 E. 25th St.

Sunday services are Amplify (non-traditional) at 9 a.m. and The Well (traditional) at 11 a.m in the main sanctuary and led by Rev. Wes Jones, Senior Pastor. Sunday School classes at 10 a.m. in their regular room.

The Prayer Team meets at 8 a.m. Adult Choir Practice is 5 to 6 p.m.

Sunday evenings Celebrate Recovery begins with a meal at 5:25 p.m. in The Friendship Center and the meeting starts at 6 p.m. upstairs in Curry Hall. The public is invited to attend.

Connections, a ladies study group, led by Pastor Teri Jones. The group meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 10 a.m. in The Friendship Center.

In the Beginning, a small group Bible Study, meets Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. They are now meeting in the basement of the church in the young adult classroom. They are studying the book of Genesis. You can start at any point so new members are welcome to join.

Wednesday activities begins with a meal at 5:30 p.m. The program, iKids (Ignite Kids) On Fire For Jesus! starts at 6:15 p.m. This program is for kids in Pre-K through the 6th Grade. The Prayer Team meets at 6:15 p.m. in the Prayer Room. Youth meets at 6:30 p.m. downstairs in the church. Bible study is at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary.

Thursday: Cub Scout Pack # 588 will meet when events are scheduled and Boy Scout Troop # 588 will meet at 7 p.m.

Small group Cover to Cover is a Christian book club that meets the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. AM to select a new book and discuss the book they just read. Group meets in The Friendship Center. If interested contact Kim Rutan at 812-343-2217 (call or text) or via email at flintwoodoffice@gmail.com.

In the event of severe winter weather, we will announce service/activity cancellations via local television networks, The Flintwood website, The Flintwood Facebook page, and the Flintwood App.

For further information about services or our ministries please call 812.379.4287 or email flintwoodoffice@gmail.com. Church office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our website is http://www.flintwood.org

Garden City Church of Christ Starting Jan. 5 at the 10 a.m. service, Garden City Church of Christ is hosting a four-week sermon series called Reset. Everyone in the community is invited to attend.

The topics of the series include Reset My Heart, Reset My Mind, Reset My Voice and Reset My Hands.

Garden City Church of Christ is located at 3245 Jonesville Road, Columbus.

For more information about the church, visit http://www.gardencitychurch.com or call 812-372-1766.

Grace Lutheran Rev. John Armstrong will preach on Sunday, based on John 1:29-42. Worship is at 8 and 10:30 a.m., with Sunday School for all ages at 9:30 a.m.

Alpha, an introduction to the Bible continues Tuesday, January 21, 6-8 p.m. with the topic Who is Jesus?

Searching Scripture begins Tuesday, January 21, 6-8 p.m. with the topic The Ten Commandments.

Old Union United Church of Christ Scriptures for the 10 a.m. Sunday service will include Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, and John 1:29-42. The message will be Finding Jesus.

Sunday school will be at 9 a.m. with fellowship at 9:40 a.m.

The church is located at 12703 N. County Road 50W, Edinburgh.

Petersville United Methodist Church The Rev. Stormy Scherer-Berry will give her message, Know Your Name, at the 9 a.m. worship service on Sunday morning at the church, 2781 North County Road 500 E, Columbus. The theme for this Sunday will be Who has God called you to be?

Scriptures from Isaiah 49 and John 1:38-41 will be shared by liturgist Patsy Harris. The childrens sermon will be given by Teresa Covert, and the choir will provide special music, under the direction of Kathy Bush.

The congregation will be encouraged to stay for a special meeting immediately following worship concerning an anticipated split in the world-wide United Methodist Church; Pastor Scherer-Berry will lead the discussion. A time of fellowship will follow the service.

The Bakers Dozen Bible study group will meet at the home of Larry and Connie Nolting on Monday at 6:30 p.m.; the Journey Bible study group also will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the home of Chris Kimerling. The Sit and Stitch group will meet Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. at the Nolting home.

Choir practice will be Wednesday night at the church at 6:30 p.m., and Prayer Time will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday morning at the church with Barb Hedrick as leader.

Information:812-546-4438; 574-780-2379

Sandy Hook United Methodist The church will be having a Bible study on the book of Ruth for six winter Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. starting Jan. 8 through Feb. 19 (there will be no study January 29). This video-based study is part of the Epic of Eden Bible studies.

Please contact the church office at 812-372-8495 or office@sandyhook.org if interested in participating (so books can be ordered).

The church is located at 1610 Taylor Road, Columbus.

St. Paul Lutheran Sanctity of Life will be celebrated Sunday at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 6045 E. State Street, at the 8 and 10:45 a.m. services with Pastor Doug Baumans message entitled A Light Thing for the Light based on Isaiah 49:1-7.

Christian Education classes for all ages begin at 9:30 a.m. Vicar Daniel Fickenscher will lead the Spanish worship service at 2:30 p.m. in the church followed by Spanish/English Sunday School at 3:30 p.m.

Open enrollment for the 2020-2021 Preschool and Kindergarten Registration begins on Monday, Jan. 27. Classes are for children who are 3, 4 or 5 by August 1. 3-year old classes meet 8:15 to 11:15 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday. 4-year old classes meet 8:15 to 11:15 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday OR 12:10 to 3:10 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday. Half day Kindergarten classes meet 8:15 to 11:45 a.m. Monday Friday. Extended care available to compliment class sessions and a STEM enrichment class available on Wednesday afternoons. The teaching staff holds college degrees in education and are committed to nurturing children in their spiritual growth and love of learning. Class sizes are small and the school is accredited through the National Lutheran School Accreditation. Information: 812-376-6504 or http://www.stpaulcolumbus.org

Financial Peace University classes will begin Monday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m. at the church. Classes teach how to beat debt and make a plan for the future together. Information: philburbrink@gmail.com

Information: 812-376-6504.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbus On Sunday at 10 a.m., Heaven on Earth: Christianity and the Social Gospel Movement will be presented by Rev. Nic Cable and Peggy Sabau.

In the early 20th century, what came to be known as the Social Gospel Movement swept through the United States. How did this movement come to influence our religious tradition and how do we continue this movement in the 21st century will be questions explored in this weeks service.

The church is at 7850 W. Goeller Blvd., Columbus.

Information: 812-342-6230.

Westside Community Pastor Robert Vester will lead the service this Sunday at 10 a.m. at the church at the corner of West State Road 46 West and Tipton Lakes Boulevard.

The childrens program for birth through sixth grade meets at the same time as the 10 a.m. worship service.

For more information on studies or small groups that meet throughout the week, contact the church office at 812-342-8464.

Music

North Christian Church The church is looking for singers to join their Chancel Choir. Now is the perfect time to get started! Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at the church, 850 Tipton Lane, Columbus.

For more information, contact the Music Director, Travis Whaley, at music@northchristianchurch.com.

Events

First United Methodist Tuesday evenings from Jan. 7 to Feb. 25, the church will host a grief support group. Meetings will begin at 5:30 p.m.

The group will explore grief using Julie Yarbroughs book, Beyond the Broken Heart: A Journey Through Grief. It will take place in the Blue Room (Room 216) at the church, and is open to anyone. To register, or for more information, call the church office at 812-372-2851.

On Monday, the church will host the seventh annual First Cares event. From 9 a.m. until noon, volunteers will do work in and for the community. There will be opportunities to help church members stuff homemade animal pillows and tying blankets, or help clean at the Turning Point shelter. Anyone is welcome to help during this morning of service.

On Friday at 7 p.m., the church will host the Laura Andrews String Studio Recital. Come and hear the young stars of tomorrow! Admission is free, and donations are encouraged.

On Jan. 26, the church will host its first Life Planning Seminar. Possible topics include end-of-life planning, assisted living and funeral planning, and financial planning topics like retirement and college planning. There will be a dinner at 5:15 p.m. with the session to follow at 6 p.m. Anyone in the community is welcome to attend.

North Christian Church You are invited to join the Centering Prayer Group that meets in the North Christian Prayer Chapel, Lower Level #6, on Friday mornings from 10:30 11:30 am. This is a drop-in prayer group, meaning that you can come as your schedule allows. Familiarity with Centering Prayer and its spiritual practices is not necessary. For more information, consult the Centering Prayer page at http://www.northchristianchurch.com.

St. Paul Lutheran An eight-week grief support Bible study entitled, Hope When Your Heart Breaks continues on Monday, Jan. 20 at 2 p.m. in the churchs Conference Room. Those learning to live without a loved one are welcome.

St. Peter Lutheran Church On Sunday, Jan. 26, the church will host a soup supper and Euchre party 11750 West County Road 930S, Columbus.

The soup supper will start at 5 p.m. and admission is $5. The Euchre party starts at 6:30 p.m. and admission is $5. Proceeds will go to Love Chapel in Columbus and Anchor House in Seymour.

Zion Lutheran Church The church, at 1501 Gaiser Dr., Seymour, will hold its Annual Ham and Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings Sunday February 9, 2020 from 4 to 7 p.m. The public is invited.

A free will offering will be taken. Proceeds will go to mission projects. Carry-out will be available. Call the church office with questions at 812-522-1089.

Read more from the original source:
Religion news Jan. 18 - The Republic

A cross-party group of councillors in Hull have formally backed the idea. Photograph: Alamy

Hull wants to become the first UK city to test a weekly universal basic income for its residents after a cross-party group of councillors formally backed the idea.

The proposal would mean every adult would be paid a basic sum potentially between 50 and 100 a week regardless of income, and do away with the need for welfare.

People receiving disability payments would instead get the equivalent sum in universal basic income (UBI) and there would be higher payments for pensioners and lower sums for children.

The ambitious scheme has been trialled with varying success in Finland, the US and Kenya but the idea has been gaining traction in a number of UK cities, particularly in the north of England.

Matt Jukes, the chief executive of Hull city council, will write to Sajid Javid, the chancellor, to request permission to pilot UBI after winning the backing of councillors last week.

The shadow chancellor, John McDonnell, had promised to allow trials of UBI if Labour won last months election, with Liverpool and Sheffield earmarked as two pilot cities. The Conservative government, however, has been less keen on the idea. It said previously that the proposal would not work for those who need more support such as disabled people and those with caring responsibilities.

Sam Gregory, who chairs a UBI lab in Sheffield in support of the scheme, said Hulls backing was an important moment for basic income in the UK. He said: Three major northern cities Liverpool, Sheffield and Hull have now asked to host pilots of this radical new idea, because the Westminster way of doing things has failed these communities for far too long.

Even the Conservative councillors in Hull voted for this motion, saying that they were open-minded about a pilot in the city. We dont know if UBI is the answer, but theres a growing consensus between different political parties that we need to test it out.

UBI trials in Finland, the only advanced economy to pilot a widespread scheme, found that people receiving basic incomes were happier, but they were no better and no worse at finding employment than a control group.

Economists on both left and right have argued for UBI as a source of personal empowerment, providing citizens with more choice over work, education, training, leisure and caring. Others argue that UBI would be too expensive and would be difficult to set at the right level, and believe higher spending on public services would work better.

Jack Haines, a Liberal Democrat councillor on Hull city council, said Britains welfare system was broken and that UBI could be a better way of helping those most in need. He said: Hull is a progressive city and Im proud the Liberal Democrats here as well as the other parties have chosen to try out this new policy, which has the possibility to transform the city and the country.

Read more:
Hull asks to be first UK city to trial universal basic income - The Guardian

Financial independence is one of the core concepts of living a holistically wealthy life. Anthony Devlin - PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images

2020 marks the start of not only a new year but also an entirelynew decade. In terms of financial empowerment for women, its an opportunity to make big strides in our effort to address larger societal issues such as equality and justice, reproductive rights, poverty and domestic issues like financial abuse, as well as income security and retirement. It is estimated that 46% of women are not too confident or not at all confident about their ability to live comfortably after retirement, compared to only 31% of men who feel that way.

After my husband died unexpectedly, leaving me a 31-year-old widow with two small children, I realized that all women need to have a firm financial identity. I also found my voice in raising awareness about womens financial empowerment, as well as the importance of gender equality, diversity and financial inclusion. Womens rights have become my passion, and I realize that, globally, we cant fully achieve holistically wealthycommunities if women dont have access to the same opportunities to thrive and be successful.

SEE ALSO: Handmaids Tale Co-Producer Discusses Womens Rights Issues

One common thread that runs through most of the #MeToo stories is the need for women to be financially empowered so that they can feel empowered to say no to any situation that will cause harm. Saying no to requests that are out of scope withyour vision or mission in life or could endanger your physical, mental or even your financial health is important. As I state in my new book,Holistic Wealth: 32 Life Lessons To Help You Find Purpose, Prosperity, and Happiness: The word no is like an asset in a metaphorical bank account where our lifes energy is the holding. Use it to save, and use it to earn a greater sense of yourself, whats important to you, and where you want to spend your time and energy.

Indeed, financial empowerment is the new feminism, and this is why Im claiming 2020 as the year of holistic wealth. In my book Holistic Wealth, I outline several strategies that can help women achieve financial wellness.

The Holistic Wealth Method is a framework I developed for assessing your actions and decisions. In applying the Holistic Wealth Method ask yourself: Will this decision be a withdrawal from or a deposit to my holistic wealth bank account? Approaching life with a holistic wealth mindset means approaching life mindfully and with the realization that each decision and each action represents a withdrawal from or deposit to that holistic wealth bank account. Repeated withdrawals from the holistic wealth bank account will lead to bankruptcy.

Similarly, there are some actions that act like compound interest in a holistic wealth bank account, like listening to your intuition and lifelong learningthe benefits of these actions multiply over time in many different areas of your life. The Holistic Wealth Method can be applied in everyday situations regarding a range of daily decisions. For example, in assessing if a decision will add to your holistic wealth bank account, think about the vision of your life going forward and what you truly want for yourself. If you have toxic relationships that lead to financial abuse, then ask yourself if keeping these relationships is a deposit into or a withdrawal from that bank account. Likewise, in thinking about your current spending habits, daily eating regimen and the amount of time you spend on social media, examine how these actions add to (or take from) your overall holistic wealth.

Holistic wealth is about having an intentionally designed lifeso changing your mindset is key to ensuring you can achieve it and overcome any setbacks, like domestic and financial abuse.

Financial independence is one of the core concepts of living a holistically wealthy life. There are several strategies to get you to a place where you have enough income to pay your living expenses for the rest of your life without having to depend on anyone else. Whether this means retiring by the age of 40, or taking a more traditional route, building your financial portfolio depends on having your financial identity. Heres an excerpt from Holistic Wealth:

A well-planned future also starts with developing your own financial identity. One way to do this is through financial literacy. Improving your financial literacy is also the greatest stimulant of wealth. Many of us make our first large purchase with a spouse or significant other. The first house, the first car, the wedding and honeymoonthese are all expenses tied to our expansionary years. We therefore transition into adulthood not having gained a full sense of our own personal financial identity. For instance, what is my investment identity? What are the things I will splurge on versus save on? This can also be tied to our values and mission in life. It is highly individual. Each of us should have a financial identityone that is distinct and separate from our spouses or parents. If you find yourself always wondering what your friends or parents think about the way you spend or invest, then its an indication that you havent fully figured out your financial identity. Its impossible to design a well-planned future without a proper financial identitywe end up living our lives in the footsteps of othersand possibly making the same money mistakes.

Holistic Wealth: 32 Life Lessons to Help You Find Purpose, Prosperity, and Happiness by Keisha Blair. Photo Courtesy of Keisha Blair

Taking measured risks are imperative to achieving holistic wealth; it means stepping out on your own with the confidence you need to make your own financial decisions. Too many people become paralyzed by fear and take no action at all when it comes to living their dreams. In addition, when you confuse real constraints with fake ones, you deplete your holistic wealth bank account. People with a holistic wealth mindset dont fear taking measured risks. They recognize fake versus real constraints, and they view setbacks as only temporary, and include their lifes mission in their definition of success. Get past your fear by focusing on the outcome you want to achievethen say yes to your desire to take measured risks toward your goals.

Read the original post:
Financial Empowerment Is the New FeminismHeres Why - Observer

Sexual wellness is having a huge year already. Brands are flocking to the sexual wellness category as its ever-increasing popularity grows. The sexual wellnessmarket is really dominating at the moment, with the likes retailers like Goop selling everything from vibrators to stimulation gel in their Between The Sheets section and Free People stocking items for their sexual wellness sales. CES, a huge tech conference held yearly banned sexual wellness technology products last year, and just a week ago, according to CNN, sex technology was on full display. The trade shows organizer estimated there were roughly a dozen sex tech companies includingDame, Lovense, Ohmibod, Pulse, and MysteryVibe presenting their innovations at CES and trying to make female sexuality and pleasure less taboo.Maybe its time to flip the script on female sexuality?

And if it wasnt proof enough, They Call Her Alfie, a skincare brand who just last year released their Love Gel, is selling out of said item in troves. So much so, women are buying the They Call Her Alfie Love Gel in bulk because they finally have something that works. Love Gel empowers women. Love Gel isspecifically for women who have trouble in the bedroom.

Image: They Call Her Alfie

By applying Alfiesamazing Love Gel, made with the same revolutionary technology as the other products in their line, the skin absorbs and retains ingredients faster and longer. This makes the effects happen quickly and lasts longer (i.e. more time in the bedroom). Love Gels uses include helping solve a number of bedroom blunders. This includes fueling sex drive, protecting you from infection, reducing the friction of condoms, and more. Which in turn makes you less anxious, less worried about performance. You feel like you have a safe space to enjoy sex freely.

It helps to hydrate (hello wetness) and delivers more blood flow to the clitoris. The woman will also have a very heightened sexual experience this way. Made with the same technology as other products inAlfiesrevolutionary line, the Love Gel stimulates, soothes, and rejuvenates for your best sex ever.

A study was done at the University of Groningenthat studied multiple couples having sex concluded in the factwomen, turning off fear and anxiety is key, while men need to know they will be physically stimulated. Were definitely listening to the hype. For the first time in history, women are being empowered through science, technology, and brands like They Call Her Alfie.

Image: They Call Her Alfie

When asked about the revolutionary product, Bianca says Alfie is different. The brand invests the time to fully develop its technology. They also have clinically proven studies to ensure the product delivers. In the case of theLoveGel, as thelocalizedarea has a thinner dermis. We are wellaheadof the pack in not onlyintimacyrelevantresults but alsocumulativebenefits when used frequently.

With women becoming more and more empowered every day, she hopes that the tides have turned. With female health being studied more, the acceptance of LGBTQIA+ communities recognition, and more, we see change. However, Bianca wants more empowerment. She believes that the stigma around sex needs to be considered mainstream. By creatingLove Gel, she can assist many in their personal relationships with themselves and others.

If youre interested in learning more about They Call Her Alfie and their Love Gel, visit the websitehere.

Visit link:
Women Are Buying This Female Sexual Empowerment Product In Bulk - Sporteluxe

Empowered, Healthier and Happier in 2020!

By Edita McQuary

Generally it is women who are the caretakers we take care of family, friends or neighbors and at times putting our own health and personal caretaking last on our to do list.

The New Year is a good time to review and take stock of our own health and wellbeing, make changes for the better and resolve to take care of ourselves. Curves Aptos is just the place to help you get started on a new you.

Curves is a facility offering an all-inclusive standardized workout regime in just 30 minutes. You dont have to struggle figuring out the machines of the circuit as coaches train you one-on-one and are always assisting you.

Curves coaches believe in empowering members through positive encouragement when correcting form, compelling you to work at your optimal ability and celebrate your successes.

Curves is a great place to work out with lots of encouragement, said Jane Amaral, a member for more than 15 years.

Owner Annette Hunt just celebrated one-year of ownership and her team of qualified coaches, Charlotte Carreira, Laurel LeBaron and Corrie Matheison, are eager to help women make lifestyle changes to improve their health, lose weight and look and feel better. All staff have been Curves-certified, trained in the purpose and function of the circuit, and are knowledgeable about the body and nutrition.

Annette Hunt

Annette comes from a very active family where she was encouraged to try different sports as a young child. She enjoys jazz, tap, and ballet dancing, bicycling, and competitive swimming.

Annette was a Jazzercise instructor for six years before she purchased the Curves franchise. During this time she learned the skills of instructing others on body mechanics, proper movement, and modifications based on individual needs.

Annette is a firm believer in low-impact, high-intensity movement to keep and maintain a strong core and correct body alignment.

Along with her B.S. degree in Dietetics from U.C. Davis, she is uniquely qualified to teach the fundamentals of how to create and maintain a healthy body.

She is a vegetarian, has enjoyed optimal health throughout her life and wants to teach others how to make the right choices to live a long, healthy life.

Annette also offers the Curves Complete Dietary Program with one-on-one weekly nutritional coaching to support those interested in losing weight.There is also an online component which provides recipes to create a simple and creative menu plan based on individual preferences.

The first phase of the Curves Complete program is a jumpstart to weight loss. The next phase is designed to continue to lose weight safely, while protecting your muscle mass.

The third phase provides lifestyle maintenance for continual weight management. One member said she went from 190 lbs. to 157 lbs. in two years, and has kept it off!

The entire Curves facility and program is designed for any age, any athletic ability and it is inspiring to see our community of women work out together, as we have members ranging between 22 and 88, said Annette. Our younger members find our older clientele inspiring as they can see the difference in those who are active and taking care of themselves verses those who arent.

Of the 300 current members, the oldest is 88 but she looks and acts an easy 10 years younger. She is an inspiration, Annette continues. The youngest member is 22 years old, attending school and working full time. Curves is the perfect choice for her as it is such a quick and efficient workout.

Curves is not a quick fix workout regime. The program focuses on a lifestyle change with modifications to all exercises for those who need it.

For instance, one member with a recent valve replacement wanted to increase muscle tone, balance and flexibility. And at 72 years old, she now feels like a new woman. Other members have decreased their blood pressure or their blood sugar medications, improved bone density, reduced anxiety, blood pressure and diabetes.

Member Debra Kerr uses a small portable oxygen tank while exercising at Curves.

I have been coming to Curves for several years now and it has been very empowering now that Annette has taken over this last year, said Debra.She can get me going and keep me going. She is very professional and hands on while she is in the circuit doing the movements with us. My physician has told me to keep moving and Annette and the Curves staff are the perfect solution for me.

Thanks to my daughters who gave me a membership on Mothers Day, it helped motivate me to get back to my normal weight and improve my strength, said 15-year member Mary Jo K. The social interaction gives me mental health, strength and the Curves coaches inspire me.

Curves North America (US and Canada) franchises are women-owned and operated and are strong in supporting important organizations such as Second Harvest Food Bank, Alzheimers Research and Breast Cancer Awareness, just to mention a few.

Annette said at the Aptos facility they dont discuss politics, religion or sports. We are only interested in improving womens health, she said.

Over the past year, Curves Aptos has contributed $2500 towards Alzheimers Research; $5000 in services towards our local schools and non-profit organizations, $1000 towards Second Harvest Food Bank; and impacted more than 450 families with the Christmas Adopt-a-Family Stars Program.

We want to empower our members through cardio and strength training and to help support and give back to our community along the way, Annette said. I am a local girl, and want to support my community as much as possible.

Its 2020, and if you havent already, let Curves Aptos help you take control of your life and feel the empowerment of a healthier, stronger and happier you!

Join Curves Aptos today!

Curves is located at 7000 Soquel Drive, Aptos. To contact them, call 831.688.2348, Email: [emailprotected], or visit Curves.com, https://www.facebook.com/CurvesAptos

Continued here:
Curves Aptos: Empowered, Healthier and Happier TPG, Inc. - Aptos Times