AILP³ is a pioneering initiative co-led by Operation HOPE and its AI Ethics Council (a HOPE Initiative), and Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business. It aims to inspire K–12 students from underserved communities by providing pathways to college and opportunities in an artificial intelligence workforce.

The week-long summer camp, held from July 7–11 at Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business, was the first in-person activation of AILP³. Nearly 40 rising 9th–11th graders took part in immersive, hands-on activities that included AI literacy bootcamps, design-thinking sprints, mentorship from local tech leaders, and opportunities to develop AI-driven prototypes. To align with Operation HOPE’s mission of promoting economic empowerment through financial literacy, the camp concluded with a themed hackathon where students applied their new skills to create AI-powered solutions for financial challenges faced by people at all stages of life.

Students joined from Atlanta Public Schools and other metro-Atlanta school districts and from youth organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta, Junior Achievement of Georgia, and the YMCA of Metro Atlanta.

“During that week on Georgia State’s campus, I didn’t just learn how to build a bot. I built confidence. I didn’t just attend a career panel. I saw myself in the people speaking. And I didn’t just submit a group project. I discovered my purpose,” said 16-year-old Zion Moore, a participant in the camp.

Dr. Jen Bailey, Robinson’s associate dean for undergraduate programs, led the curriculum design and program delivery for the AILP³ camp. A multidisciplinary team of Georgia State faculty, with expertise in innovation, finance, technology, education, and entrepreneurship, also taught the students, as well as industry experts from Atlanta’s AI ecosystem.

“It was exciting to collaborate with our GSU faculty and industry partners to shape every element of this experience, from program curriculum to student engagement, and to create such a transformative opportunity for these high school students to develop and deepen their AI literacy skills,” Bailey said. “Their curiosity, creativity, and drive made this inaugural cohort a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we invest early in the next generation of innovators.”

Noting the broader mission of AILP³, Brian Betts, President and CFO of Operation HOPE, said, “With AILP³ and our inaugural summer camp, we’re planting the seeds of innovation and economic mobility where they’re needed most. Georgia State has been an exceptional lead partner in designing and executing the pilot, and we’re equally grateful to the original coalition of thought leaders, from the AI Ethics Council to Atlanta’s HBCUs, who helped shape this vision from the beginning.”

About AILP³

• End-to-end talent development: AILP³ is building a pipeline for K–12 students to explore, engage with, and ultimately enter AI-related fields through early exposure, mentorship, hands-on learning, and financial literacy.
• Curriculum: The AILP³ program is grounded in the Robinson College of Business’ Innovation for All curricular framework, designed to equip students from all backgrounds with the skills and competencies needed to lead and innovate in both business and society.
• Scalable model: The Atlanta pilot provides a replicable framework for expansion to other communities across Georgia and beyond.
• Community impact: AILP³ was first introduced in December 2024 by a cross-sector coalition of public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders, including Operation HOPE, the AI Ethics Council (co-founded by Operation HOPE and OpenAI) and Georgia State University as lead partners, with initial collaborators lending their support including the City of Atlanta, Atlanta Public Schools, the Atlanta Board of Education, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and other HBCUs that anchor the region’s innovation ecosystem.
• AILP³ is supported by Operation HOPE’s award-winning HOPE Inside platform, which has generated more than $4.2 billion in economic activity for underserved communities. Georgia State University contributes its nationally recognized student success model — one that ensures high-ability talent from all backgrounds can achieve academic and career success at scale.

ABOUT OPERATION HOPE, INC.
Since 1992, Operation HOPE has empowered more than 4 million individuals with financial literacy, credit and money management coaching, home ownership, and small business support—advancing “silver rights” to help low- and moderate-income Americans achieve economic dignity. Through its award-winning HOPE Inside model, the organization has helped generate over $4.2 billion in economic activity. We operate in nearly 300 cities serving 1,500 locations throughout the United States. Learn more at OperationHOPE.org.

ABOUT GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY’S J. MACK ROBINSON COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
Founded in 1913 and boasting close to 85,000 alumni, Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business is one of the largest business schools in the U.S. The college offers 11 undergraduate majors, 12 specialized master’s programs, two MBA programs, and Ph.D. and practitioner doctorate (DBA) programs. A four-time recipient of AACSB’s Innovations That Inspire award, Robinson’s unique interdisciplinary culture and groundbreaking co-curricular and immersive experiences equip students with the critical skills employers seek in new hires. Consistent with Georgia State’s award-winning student success model, Robinson works to ensure that students from all backgrounds can succeed, whether pioneering new businesses or leading established organizations. More Georgia executives hold advanced degrees from the Robinson College of Business and Georgia State University than from any other school in the U.S. Learn more at robinson.gsu.edu.

Contacts

MEDIA:

Operation HOPE
Nzinga “Zing” Shaw
Senior Vice President, Communications | nzinga.shaw@operationhope.org

Georgia State University – Robinson College of Business
Holly Frew
Director, Public Relations and External Communications | hfrew@gsu.edu

The post Operation HOPE & Georgia State University’s Inaugural AILP³ Summer Camp Empowers Atlanta Youth with AI Literacy Skills to Bridge the Opportunity Gap appeared first on Operation HOPE.

Green Socks Day, powered by FL4A, is designed to be a visible and engaging way to highlight financial literacy during the month of April, Financial Literacy Month. Throughout April and culminating on April 30^th, individuals, organizations, and businesses nationwide are invited to join the Green Socks Day Challenge by:

• Wearing green socks to start the conversation about taking positive steps toward your financial future. Through the support of Walmart, limited edition green socks are available for purchase on walmart.com.
• Taking a quiz to test your level of financial literacy.
• Sharing photos on April 30th in your green socks on social media using the hashtag #GreenSocksDay and tagging @OperatonHOPE. Select photos will be displayed on Nasdaq’s Times Square Tower in New York City.

“Financial literacy is the foundation for economic empowerment, yet most Americans never receive formal financial education in school or informal money management lessons at home,” said John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE & Co-Chair of Financial Literacy for All. “Green Socks Day is more than a campaign—it’s a national call to action to ensure that every American has the knowledge and resources to achieve financial dignity and success.”

Corporations, small businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to participate in Green Socks Day by engaging employees in the initiative, hosting financial literacy events, and promoting financial literacy resources.

FL4A and Operation HOPE provide access to free financial coaching, educational programs, and corporate partnerships to help drive financial empowerment at scale.

About Financial Literacy for All (FL4A)

Launched in 2021, Financial Literacy for All (FL4A) is a national initiative co-chaired by John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE, and Doug McMillon, CEO of Walmart. FL4A is dedicated to embedding financial literacy into American culture, ensuring that financial education becomes a lifelong learning priority for individuals, families, businesses, and communities. FL4A is backed by leading corporate partners committed to making financial literacy accessible to all. For more information, visit www.fl4a.org

About Operation HOPE, Inc.

Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been a driving force in economic empowerment, shifting America from civil rights to “Silver Rights”—a movement to ensure free enterprise and capitalism work for all. Through its award-winning HOPE Inside model, which received American Banker’s Innovator of the Year recognition, Operation HOPE has impacted over 4 million individuals, directing more than $4 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities. With a mission to turn check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into entrepreneurs, and minimum-wage workers into financially independent individuals, Operation HOPE continues to redefine economic inclusion. The organization recently earned Fast Company’s “World Changing Ideas” Award and has been recognized with ten consecutive 4-star ratings from Charity Navigator for fiscal transparency and accountability.

For more information, visit OperationHOPE.org and follow the conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Contacts

Media Contacts
Kevin Boucher
kevin.boucher@operationhope.org

Bill Mendel
bill@mendelcommunications.com

The post Operation HOPE and Financial Literacy for All Launch Green Socks Day Challenge to Advance Financial Literacy Across America appeared first on Operation HOPE.

ATLANTA–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Operation HOPE, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping low- and moderate-income Americans thrive in an ever-changing economy, announced today the formation of Project Restore HOPE Los Angeles, the second phase of the organization’s relief, recovery, and rebuilding effort in Los Angeles following the recent devastating wildfires in the area.

Led by Co-Chairs John Hope Bryant (Operation HOPE Founder, Chairman and CEO), Lance Triggs (Operation HOPE EVP and President of HOPE Programs), and Brad Johnson (acclaimed hospitality executive and 30-year Los Angeles resident) as well as committee members including leaders from the public and private sectors, professional athletes and entertainers, Project Restore HOPE Los Angeles is a five-year initiative aimed at addressing the immediate and long-term needs of individuals, small businesses and communities impacted by the recent wildfires. Through Operation HOPE’s partnership offices with Bank of America, Wells Fargo, US Bank, Cathay Bank and Delta Airlines, the initiative already has more than 50 HOPE Inside Disaster offices in place in Los Angeles along with 1,000 HOPE Corps volunteers who stand ready to serve the residents and businesses with disaster and recovery services including:

• FEMA Applications and Appeals
• Small Business Recovery / SBA Loan
• Obtaining Copies of Destroyed Documents
• Insurance Claims Assistance and Appeals
• Managing Mortgage Payments on Damaged Home
• Payment Deferment Assistance Negotiating and Working with Your Creditors
• Financial Counseling
• Disaster Recovery Budget
• Home Inspections and Repair Contracts
• Foreclosure Prevention

A key part of Project Restore HOPE Los Angeles’ efforts will include a mobilization of support from the city’s hospitality industry. Mr. Johnson and Eater LA Editor and Altadena-native Mona Holmes will be leading the effort to establish a headquarters office in Altadena, where many working-class families and businesses were particularly impacted. The office is expected to include a complimentary meal service for community members facilitated by John Cleveland, renowned chef and owner of Post & Beam restaurant, along with guidance from Operation HOPE volunteers who can help residents, workers and business owners with the complex application processes for federal relief and insurance claims as well as provide longer-term financial coaching and support services. Details on the headquarters office will be available at Operation HOPE’s website.

“This 5-year commitment to help rebuild, restore and strengthen impacted communities in Los Angeles is a reflection of Operation HOPE’s longstanding ties to the community that date back to our founding as a response to the civil unrest following the Rodney King verdict over 30 years ago. In partnering with Brad Johnson, Mona Holmes, John Cleveland and so many other highly-regarded and respected leaders in the community, Project Restore HOPE Los Angeles seeks to bring critical on-the-ground financial relief and recovery services to the areas and people most in need so that middle- and working-class families and business owners have the tools and resources to come out of this devastating experience stronger and more resilient than ever,” said Mr. Bryant.

For more information and assistance, affected individuals are encouraged to contact Operation HOPE Inside Disaster, powered by HOPE Coalition America (HCA).

For organizations interested in partnering with Project Restore HOPE Los Angeles, please contact Lance Triggs at lance.triggs@operationhope.org.

About Operation HOPE, Inc.
Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to “silver rights” with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved—disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. Through its community uplift model, HOPE Inside, which received the 2016 Innovator of the Year recognition by American Banker magazine, Operation HOPE has served more than 4 million individuals and directed more than $3.2 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities—turning check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into small business owners, minimum wage workers into living wage consumers, and uncertain disaster victims into financially empowered disaster survivors. For more information: OperationHOPE.org. Follow the HOPE conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

Contacts

Operation HOPE Contact:
Sarah Troutt, Mendel Communications
sarah@mendelcommunications.com

The post Operation HOPE Announces Formation of Project Restore HOPE Los Angeles appeared first on Operation HOPE.

ATLANTA, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Operation HOPE, the nation’s leading nonprofit in financial literacy and economic empowerment, is proud to announce it has earned its 11th consecutive Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, the largest and most-utilized evaluator of charities in the United States. This prestigious rating—the highest possible—recognizes Operation HOPE’s unwavering commitment to accountability, transparency, and financial health.

The Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator is awarded to organizations that exceed industry standards in ethical governance, financial efficiency, and operational transparency. According to Charity Navigator, only a select group of nonprofits nationwide have achieved this level of consistent excellence. Operation HOPE also received a Four-Star rating for Culture & Community, which assesses the organization’s culture and connectedness to the communities it serves.

“Operation HOPE’s strong financial health, ongoing effectiveness, and reliability have helped it earn a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator.”Post this

“We are honored to receive this distinction for the 11th year in a row,” said John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE. “This milestone reflects our ongoing dedication to delivering measurable, sustainable impact in underserved communities while maintaining the highest standards of fiscal responsibility. I want to personally thank the entire Operation HOPE team for their diligence, passion, and tireless efforts that make this level of excellence possible. This recognition is as much a tribute to their commitment as it is to our shared mission.”

Operation HOPE continues to empower individuals and families through programs like HOPE Inside, which provides free financial coaching, credit counseling, and small business development resources. In 2024 alone, the organization:

• Assisted over 130,000 individuals in achieving financial independence.
• Helped clients improve their credit scores by an average of 39 points.
• Engaged and supported 64,000 small businesses nationwide.

Brian Betts, President and Chief Financial Officer of Operation HOPE, shared his thoughts on the recognition: “At Operation HOPE, we believe that sound financial management is a cornerstone of creating lasting impact. This 11th consecutive Four-Star rating is a reflection of our disciplined approach to resource allocation and our commitment to maximizing the value of every dollar entrusted to us. I am incredibly proud of our team for maintaining such high standards year after year.”

“We are delighted to provide Operation HOPE with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence,” said Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator. “The Four-Star Rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that Operation HOPE can accomplish in the years ahead.”

Bryant added, “It is critical to maintain the trust of our donors, partners and communities so we can deliver on our mission to make free enterprise and capitalism work for everyone, especially those who have been traditionally left behind.”

As Operation HOPE enters 2025, the organization is poised to expand its footprint and deepen its impact through innovative partnerships and expanded programming aimed at tackling economic inequity at its root. A few of Operation HOPE’s award-winning initiatives include the HOPE Inside, Disaster Recovery and Resiliency, Child Savings Program and 1 Million Black Businesses (1MBB), which focuses on entrepreneurship and small business development.

Operation HOPE’s rating and other information about charitable giving are available free of charge on charitynavigator.org. For more information about Operation HOPE, visit OperationHOPE.org.

About Operation HOPE, Inc.
Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to “silver rights” with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved—disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. Through its community uplift model, HOPE Inside, which received the 2016 Innovator of the Year recognition by American Banker magazine, Operation HOPE has served more than 4 million individuals and directed more than $4.2 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities—turning check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into small business owners, minimum wage workers into living wage consumers, and uncertain disaster victims into financially empowered disaster survivors. For more information: OperationHOPE.org. Follow the HOPE conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Media Contacts:
Lalohni Campbell, Per/Se Media Group
la@persemediagroup.com

Kevin Boucher, Operation HOPE
Kevin.boucher@operationhope.org

SOURCE Operation HOPE, Inc.

The post Operation HOPE Earns 11th Consecutive Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator appeared first on Operation HOPE.

ATLANTA–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Operation HOPE, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping low- and moderate-income Americans thrive in an ever-changing economy, announced today that it has launched its financial recovery and relief effort to provide immediate assistance to individuals, small businesses, and communities impacted by the recent devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

“As an LA native, I know these communities intimately and know the hard-working, resilient people of this city will recover and rebuild, and Operation HOPE will be here to support these recovery efforts today and throughout the long rebuilding effort ahead.”Post this

In collaboration with local and national partners, Operation HOPE is mobilizing its entire network of more than 300 certified financial coaches to guide affected residents, workers and business owners through the complex application process for post-disaster federal relief and insurance claims. This includes assistance in obtaining payment deferrals on mortgages, small business loans, auto loans and credit cards as well as support for those who have lost important paperwork or are uninsured to navigate the recovery process. These critical services are provided at no cost through the Operation HOPE Inside Disaster initiative.

“The devastation and destruction across the Los Angeles metropolitan area hits deep for us at Operation HOPE and for me, personally. I launched Operation HOPE in Los Angeles in the wake of the Rodney King riots more than 30 years ago to help rebuild our community and uplift residents and businesses through financial empowerment. So, there was no question that we would be doing everything we can to support those affected by these wildfires – especially those in the neighborhoods around Altadena, which has been a haven for racial and economic diversity for generations,” said John Hope Bryant, Operation HOPE Founder, Chairman and CEO. “As an LA native, I know these communities intimately and know the hard-working, resilient people of this city will recover and rebuild, and Operation HOPE will be here to support these recovery efforts today and throughout the long rebuilding effort ahead.”

HOPE Inside Disaster is one of only a few financial emergency preparedness and recovery services in the country that is authorized to work with federal, state and local agencies as well as national non-profits. The initiative began in 2001 after the September 11 terrorist attacks and has provided financial recovery and relief assistance to individuals and small businesses in the wake of every other major disaster situation in the U.S. including Hurricane Katrina, Superstorm Sandy and the Maui wildfires in 2023. Through partnerships with the American Red Cross, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration as well as the private sector, Operation HOPE deploys in response to federally-declared disasters and serves as a financial advocate for local homeowners, renters, and small business owners. While Operation HOPE does not provide direct financial aid, the non-profit works directly with disaster victims to obtain needed resources and financial help to facilitate recovery. Beyond immediate assistance, Operation HOPE actively educates victims throughout the ongoing restoration and rebuilding efforts, collaborating closely with partners, community members, and government agencies.

For more information and assistance, affected individuals are encouraged to contact Operation HOPE Inside Disaster, powered by HOPE Coalition America (HCA).

About Operation HOPE, Inc.
Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to “silver rights” with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved—disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. Through its community uplift model, HOPE Inside, which received the 2016 Innovator of the Year recognition by American Banker magazine, Operation HOPE has served more than 4 million individuals and directed more than $3.2 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities—turning check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into small business owners, minimum wage workers into living wage consumers, and uncertain disaster victims into financially empowered disaster survivors. For more information: OperationHOPE.org. Follow the HOPE conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

Contacts

Operation HOPE :
Sarah Troutt, Mendel Communications
sarah@mendelcommunications.com

The post Operation HOPE Launches Relief Effort to Support Residents & Businesses Affected by Los Angeles Wildfires appeared first on Operation HOPE.

ATLANTA, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Operation HOPE today announced the “American Aspiration Tour,” aimed at igniting a new national dialogue on financial literacy and economic inclusion. Inspired by his best-selling book, Financial Literacy for All, the tour will feature Operation HOPE Founder and CEO John Hope Bryant in a series of hosted conversations with elected officials and corporate leaders across America.

“The American Aspiration Tour is about reconnecting the aspirations of all Americans so that they may fully thrive in the largest and greatest economy in the world,” said Mr. Bryant. “Much of the country is living paycheck-to-paycheck, with little or no savings, increasing debt, and on the outside looking in at the American Dream of prosperity and opportunity for everyone. Some Americans never received ‘the memo’ on how money, free enterprise, and capitalism work. We’re working to change this trajectory, to reignite aspiration and hope for all Americans. The new color is not black or white, red or blue, but green: as in the color of money.”

The “American Aspiration Tour” aims to ignite a new national dialogue on financial literacy and economic inclusion for all.

The Tour will begin in Atlanta, GA – home to Operation HOPE’s national headquarters – on June 25, hosted at City Hall by Mayor Andre Dickens, followed by a June 30 event with Memphis, TN Mayor Paul Young. Other civic leaders committed to hosting events include Birmingham, AL Mayor Randall Woodfin, St. Louis, MO Mayor Tishaura Jones, Montgomery, AL Mayor Steven Reed, Union City, GA Mayor Vince Williams, with additional dates to be announced through the end of the year.

Released in April 2024, Financial Literacy for All, debuted at #13 on the USA Today Bestseller List, #9 on Publisher’s Weekly, and has been #1 in multiple categories on Amazon since its release. It has also spurred a new national conversation on financial literacy: How can we expand access? How can the private and public sector help? What can individuals do? Where can I get assistance?

In response, Mr. Bryant initiated a “Campaign for America,” outlining how every American can advance financial literacy for themselves and their communities. The Campaign – which offers six specific calls to action – is grounded in the belief that everyone can do something where they live, learn, work, or play, to improve their own financial future or help someone else along their path to financial wellness.

Seeking to frame thought leadership on the issue in corporate America, Mr. Bryant also announced a “Business Plan for America” in May 2024 at the Milken Global Conference in Los Angeles. The Plan emphasizes diversity and opportunity as the cornerstones for economic growth, sustaining the United States’ position as a global leader, and ensuring our shared prosperity. In it, Mr. Bryant lays out a blueprint for inclusivity and prosperity, urging us all to embrace our inherent strengths — our diverse demographics — as a path to sustained economic strength. He asserts that the future of this nation depends on our willingness to “extend the table and add some chairs” to shift America’s economic trajectory.

To inquire about hosting a tour stop in your community, please contact bill.fair@operatonhope.org.

About Operation HOPE, Inc.
Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to “silver rights” with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved—disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. Through its community uplift model, HOPE Inside, which received the 2016 Innovator of the Year recognition by American Banker magazine, Operation HOPE has served more than 4 million individuals and directed more than $4.2 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities—turning check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into small business owners, minimum wage workers into living wage consumers, and uncertain disaster victims into financially empowered disaster survivors. For more information: OperationHOPE.org. Follow the HOPE conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

Operation HOPE Contacts:
Kevin Boucher, Operation HOPE
Kevin.boucher@operationhope.org

Lalohni Campbell, Per/Se Media Group
la@persemediagroup.com
404-593-7145

SOURCE Operation HOPE, Inc.

The post OPERATION HOPE CEO JOHN HOPE BRYANT ANNOUNCES THE “AMERICAN ASPIRATION TOUR” appeared first on Operation HOPE.

ATLANTA, July 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The AI Ethics Council, founded by Open AI CEO Sam Altman and Operation HOPE CEO John Hope Bryant, held its inaugural meeting on Friday, June 28^th in Atlanta. The group, which evolved out of a listening tour that was initiated last spring at Clark Atlanta University that Mr. Altman and Mr. Bryant conducted together, was formed to ensure that traditionally underrepresented communities would have a voice in the evolution of AI overall— to help frame the human and ethical considerations around the technology, and vast participation in the economic opportunities of artificial intelligence.  The council was announced in December 2023 at the HOPE Global Forums | Annual Meeting in Atlanta.

The AI Ethics Council is an interdisciplinary body of diverse experts designed to become a leading authority in identifying, advising on, and addressing ethical issues related to artificial intelligence and its impact on underserved and historically excluded communities. In addition to Mr. Altman and Mr. Bryant, founding council members include: 

• George T. French, Jr., JD, PhD., President, Clark Atlanta University and Chair of Presidents, United Negro College Fund
• Helene D. Gayle, MD, MPH, President, Spelman College
• Bernice A. King, JD, M. Div, CEO, The King Center
• David A. Thomas, PhD., President, Morehouse College
• Angela F. Williams, JD, M. Div, President and CEO, United Way Worldwide
• Ambassador Andrew J. Young, Chairman, The Andrew J. Young Foundation, former U.N. Ambassador, former Mayor of Atlanta and civil rights icon

Additional members representing the technology and community sectors will be announced in the coming months.

At the inaugural meeting, James Hairston, Open AI’s Head of International Policy and Partnerships, briefed members on the current state of AI, including its challenges and opportunities. Mr. Bryant shared that he will be convening a meeting of tech leaders to advance issues important to the council, and announced the Council website will go live July 1, 2024. “I see this website as our first stake in the ground. Its substance will grow, expand, and deepen over time. Transparency will be a hallmark. I encourage all citizens, here and abroad, to get informed and educated around what AI really is and isn’t,” said Mr. Bryant. “As a council, we aim to focus our attention on the needle we can help move: expanding inclusive opportunity around our shared future, for everyone, as it relates to AI.”

In addition to Mr. Bryant, Operation HOPE was represented by President and CFO Brian Betts and AI Ethics Council Managing Director Eric Kaplan. Topics the Council discussed included:

• The need to focus on technical capacity: How will we develop, grow, evaluate, and test the technical capacity of the system?
• How to evaluate safety, reporting, and the capacity of the law to adapt?
• What are the processes in place to evaluate AI?
• What can be done granularly to get more components of society involved?
• How can we prepare for an uncertain/undetermined future with this new tech?
• How can AI benefit the world? What are the dangers? How to optimize adoption? How do we encourage equitable participation in the economic and societal benefits?

The AI Ethics Council will form a committee framework, with sub-committees and working groups, through which members will help guide ethical principles for AI. The Council will be initially focused on the intersection of technology and humanity for positive, ethical, and transformative impact generally in economic opportunity for all, finance, education, policy, employment, accessibility, health and healthcare, and sustainability.

The AI Ethics Council will undertake a staged approach to the mission, pursuing impact by leveraging enhanced public visibility and influence, deep tech sector expertise, policy-focused advocacy, partnerships, program development, and active engagement with tech, business, community, government, and other stakeholders. Intended outcomes include:

• Establishment of Council and Committees consisting of multidisciplinary experts dedicated to advancing AI ethics, and positive future vision for our world.
• Development and dissemination of AI ethics guidelines and best practices.
• Engagement of education leaders, community leaders, business leaders and entrepreneurs, government, technologists-for-good, and the public, to foster informed discussions and decisions on AI ethics.
• Promotion of ethical AI usage through education and engagement.
• Empowerment, inclusion, economic opportunity, and acting where appropriate and where the Council can add value.

An update on the Council’s first-year activities will be shared at the 2024 HOPE Global Forums | Annual Meeting, December 9-11 in Atlanta.

About Operation HOPE

Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to “silver rights” with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved—disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. Through its community uplift model, HOPE Inside, which received the 2016 Innovator of the Year recognition by American Banker magazine, Operation HOPE has served more than 4 million individuals and directed more than $3.2 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities—turning check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into small business owners, minimum wage workers into living wage consumers, and uncertain disaster victims into financially empowered disaster survivors. For more information: OperationHOPE.org. Follow the HOPE conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.
Additional information may be found at www.operationhope.org

Contact Information

Operation HOPE
Kevin Boucher, 213-479-7833
kevin.boucher@operationhope.org

Lalohni Campbell, 404-593-7145
la@persemediagroup.com

SOURCE Operation HOPE, Inc.

The post AI Ethics Council Founded by Open AI and Operation HOPE Holds Inaugural Meeting appeared first on Operation HOPE.

DENVER, CO / ACCESSWIRE / June 5, 2024 / Operation HOPE, in collaboration with U.S. Bank and KeyBank, announces the launch of “UPLIFT Denver,” a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing financial literacy and fostering economic empowerment within the Denver community. The event will take place on June 6, 2024, from 4-6 p.m. at the B.E. Event Center, located at 1180 South Buckley Rd., Aurora, CO, 80017. There is no cost to attend.

UPLIFT, an acronym for ‘Understanding, Promoting, and Leveraging Financial Tools,’ embodies Operation HOPE’s commitment to equipping individuals and communities with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve financial well-being. Through a series of engaging events hosted by HOPE and other dedicated local partners, such as Denver Public Schools, UPLIFT aims to introduce and educate communities about its ongoing programs nationwide.

The UPLIFT Denver event will provide an interactive platform for attendees to immerse themselves in Operation HOPE’s mission to expand economic opportunity, making free enterprise work for everyone. Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about Operation HOPE’s comprehensive suite of programs on topics such as credit and money management (savings, debt reduction, etc.), homeownership, and entrepreneurship.
• Engage with UPLIFT partners, community leaders, members of the Operation HOPE leadership team, and its certified team of Financial Wellbeing coaches.
• Explore how UPLIFT is tailored to address the specific needs of the Denver community, promoting financial health and wellness for all.

“Our goal with UPLIFT is to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to build a brighter financial future,” said Lance Triggs, President of Operations at Operation HOPE. “By collaborating with local partners like U.S. Bank and KeyBank, we aim to address the pressing issues of wealth disparity while also increasing access to homeownership and small business opportunities in Denver, particularly for diverse working-class families.”

“Financial literacy is the cornerstone of economic empowerment. By providing Denver residents with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions, we are investing in the future prosperity and self-sufficiency of our communities,” said Montinee Pongsiri, SVP of Consumer & Business Banking Strategy at U.S. Bank. “We are excited to collaborate with Operation HOPE and our fellow partners at KeyBank to educate and inspire every attendee.”

“KeyBank’s purpose is to help our clients and community thrive,” said Chris Picardi, KeyBank Colorado Market President. “The UPLIFT program represents an opportunity for our community to come together and tackle the critical issue of financial literacy. We are proud to support UPLIFT Denver and bring this program to the community and provide tools to build a more secure financial future.”

The UPLIFT event will be thoughtfully structured to address the unique needs of the Denver community. Highlights will include panel discussions and breakout sessions featuring influential leaders from the public and private sectors, government officials, and coaches for in-depth learning about Operation HOPE’s services. Nearly 300 attendees are expected to attend.

According to data from the HOPE Research Institute (HRII) and its Financial Wellness Index, the average credit score for clients stands at 638 (Lakewood)*, compared to the national average of 698. Through its transformative programs, Operation HOPE has seen significant progress in Denver with an average beginning credit score of 612 for clients, a remarkable average increase of 37 points in credit score, a median reduction of client debt by $2,314, and a median increase in client savings by $1,128.

Through UPLIFT, Operation HOPE and local partners, like KeyBank and US Bank, are reaffirming their commitment to promoting financial literacy, fostering economic inclusion, and empowering communities to thrive. For more information about UPLIFT Denver and to register at no cost, please CLICK HERE.

*Access to nationwide anonymized Financial Wellness Index data is available by zip code here.

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About U.S. Bank

U.S. Bancorp, with more than 70,000 employees and $684 billion in assets as of March 31, 2024, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company serves millions of customers locally, nationally and globally through a diversified mix of businesses including consumer banking, business banking, commercial banking, institutional banking, payments and wealth management. U.S. Bancorp has been recognized for its approach to digital innovation, community partnerships and customer service, including being named one of the 2024 World’s Most Ethical Companies and Fortune’s most admired superregional bank. To learn more, please visit the U.S. Bancorp website at usbank.com and click on “About Us.”

About KeyCorp

KeyCorp’s roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $187 billion at March 31, 2024. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank Member FDIC.

About Operation HOPE, Inc.

Since 1992, Operation HOPE has tirelessly pursued its mission of advancing economic empowerment and opportunity across America. Through innovative programs like HOPE Inside, recognized by American Banker magazine, the organization has impacted over 4 million individuals and facilitated nearly $4 billion in economic activity in underserved communities. Its initiatives have transformed lives by transitioning check-cashing customers to banking, renters to homeowners, and minimum wage workers to living wage earners. Recently honored with Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Award and maintaining a top 4-star charity rating from Charity Navigator, Operation HOPE remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and driving entrepreneurship. Join the organization in leveling the economic playing field through The 1865 Project. Learn more at OperationHOPE.org and join the conversation on social media at @operationHOPE.

The post Operation HOPE Launches ‘UPLIFT Denver’ to Empower Residents With Free Financial Literacy Programs appeared first on Operation HOPE.

Operation HOPE’s alliance with SBA underscores a shared commitment to address the critical needs of small businesses.Post this

Today’s historic agreement, formalized during a visit to Operation HOPE’s headquarters by Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman and key SBA officials, signifies a significant milestone in advancing entrepreneurship in America. Against the backdrop of Atlanta’s thriving small business ecosystem, Administrator Guzman and Operation HOPE’s leadership convened to reaffirm their dedication to supporting entrepreneurs, particularly in underserved communities. Under terms of the agreement, both organizations will increase access to SBA’s resource partners, including but not limited to, SCORE, the Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), Veterans Business Opportunity Centers (VBOCs) and the Women’s Business Centers (WBCs). The SBA will also co-sponsor community-based outreach and education events with Operation HOPE and its initiatives including the 1MBB initiative. 

Administrator Guzman emphasized the importance of a sustained partnership, stating, “We’re experiencing a small business boom under the Biden-Harris Administration, with more than 17 million new small business applications filed since the President took office – and this boom is being fueled by women and people of color. Through this strategic alliance with Operation HOPE, the SBA will continue building on this surge of entrepreneurship by working to level the playing field and ensure every entrepreneur has access to the resources and support they need to thrive, create jobs, and grow our economy.”

This sentiment echoes Operation HOPE’s mission to empower individuals, families, and communities through financial literacy and entrepreneurship. By leveraging Operation HOPE’s expertise and nationwide network of clients, the sustained partnership aims to bolster small businesses, particularly among diverse communities, such as African American and Hispanic, seeking to build generational wealth.

“This strategic alliance with the SBA represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to empower small businesses across America,” said John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman and CEO, Operation HOPE. “By working hand in hand with the SBA, we can provide vital resources and support to entrepreneurs, fostering economic opportunity and driving community prosperity for all.”

One of Operation HOPE’s flagship programs, the 1 Million Black Business Initiative (1MBB), has been at the forefront of growing Black entrepreneurship in America. With a focus on providing mentorship, training, and access to capital, 1MBB has demonstrated a proven impact in catalyzing the growth of Black-owned businesses across the nation. Since launching in 2020, nearly 400,000 new Black businesses have been started and engaged through the program.

A recent highlight of the partnership’s impact is “Black Coffee,” a thriving upstart that has benefited from the support of the SBA and Operation HOPE. “As a Black entrepreneur, navigating the business landscape can be daunting,” said Marcus Johnson, CEO of Black Coffee. “The support and resources provided by the SBA and Operation HOPE have been instrumental in our growth journey. They not only helped us access capital but also provided invaluable mentorship and guidance, enabling Black Coffee to expand and create meaningful connections in our community.”

Operation HOPE’s alliance with SBA underscores a shared commitment to address the critical needs of small businesses. Through Operation HOPE’s extensive network and the SBA’s expertise in small business development, the partnership aims to provide entrepreneurs with access to quality training, counseling, and financial resources, empowering them to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.

For more information visit, https://operationhope.org.

About Operation HOPE, Inc.
Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to “Silver Rights” with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved—disrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. Through its award-winning community uplift model, HOPE Inside, which received the Innovator of the Year recognition by American Banker magazine, Operation HOPE has served more than 4 million individuals and directed more than $4 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities—turning check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into small business owners, minimum wage workers into living wage consumers, and uncertain disaster victims into financially empowered disaster survivors. Operation HOPE recently received Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Award for driving entrepreneurship as well as its tenth consecutive 4-star charity rating for fiscal management and commitment to transparency and accountability from the prestigious non-profit evaluator, Charity Navigator. Operation HOPE also recently launched The 1865 Project, an initiative designed to help level the economic playing field for underserved Americans. For more information: OperationHOPE.org. Join the HOPE conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Operation HOPE Contacts:
Kevin Boucher
kevin.boucher@operationhope.org

Lalohni Campbell
la@persemediagroup.com

SOURCE Operation HOPE, Inc.

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WASHINGTON — FEMA and Operation HOPE, an organization that provides free financial information and guidance to people and businesses that are affected by major disasters and emergencies, signed an agreement this week to continue assisting communities in their recoveries. This partnership will enable more effective and efficient recoveries by amplifying the role of nonprofits as key collaborators to help people understand the value in learning about financial recovery.  

“Operation HOPE’s mission to expand economic opportunity and promote financial resilience is a critical facet of helping people and communities jumpstart their recoveries. Our partnership has flourished over the past two decades and today’s signing means it will grow even stronger in the coming years,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “I am incredibly proud of the support they have given to wildfire survivors in Maui through the formation of the Coalition of the Willing and their continued efforts to empower communities.”

Operation HOPE has been a key partner in helping wildfire survivors on Maui, including housing assistance to families in need of emergency housing, engaging thousands of residents through community outreach and various free community disaster recovery events, and collaboration with local organizations, including several Native Hawaiian groups.

Some of the joint efforts to help communities across the country recover effectively after an emergency include sharing financial assistance and guidance on recovery best practices, providing information on FEMA mitigation programs and conducting disaster preparedness seminars in Community Disaster Resilience Zones. These services and many others are always provided to individuals, families and businesses free of charge.

“FEMA is thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with Operation HOPE. Signing this agreement represents a critical milestone that ensures our organizations’ focus on what matters most: helping people cope with disaster financial shocks and rebuild their homes and lives. This agreement formalizes our joint commitment to equip individuals and families with the financial tools they need to prepare and recover from disasters,” said FEMA Director of Individual Assistance, Frank Matranga.

“We are honored to continue our longstanding partnership with FEMA and thanks to Administrator Criswell for her incredible leadership responding to people in times of unforeseen disasters. We especially applaud the efforts of FEMA during the recent Maui wildfires, and the many public and private sector partners who so readily answered the call,” said John Hope Bryant, Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE. “We are proud to have been associated with FEMA for the past two decades, along with the American Red Cross and so many countless other partners. By joining with other front-line organizations like the members of the National Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD), we are able to support people with the long-term implications from a disaster, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to rebuild and recover.”
 

FEMA works with a number of organizations like Operation HOPE to ensure recovery efforts encompass the whole community and help people, including those who are disproportionately affected by disasters, recover and rebuild their lives.

The post FEMA and Operation HOPE Partner to Help People Build Financial Resiliency After DisastersNEWS PROVIDED BY FEMA | April 18, 2024, 23:50 GMT appeared first on Operation HOPE.