Around the world, Unilever provides nearly 400 brands that range from food and household products to personal care items. Sustainability forms the company's core, and it supports a wide range of programs that make life better for everyone.
Unilever improves national parks and touches millions of visitors. In fact, by the end of 2010, support and in-kind gifts will have totaled over $50 million. Recycling at Work has donated 100% recycled plastic, sustainable lumber to more than 200 national parks for boardwalks, docks, fences, and interpretive displays; America's Best Classroom has connected nearly 30,000 Boys and Girls Club kids to interpretive and service-to-the-land activities in national parks; and National Parks America Tour in partnership with Take Pride in America delivers much needed volunteer service to national parks. "Preserving and protecting America's national parks are a key focus of Unilever's commitment to environmental sustainability in the United States," Catherine McVitty, manager of corporate responsibility programs, says. "For nearly two decades, Unilever has provided sustainable solutions to address critical park infrastructure needs and enhance the visitor experience."
Unilever is currently at work in Grand Teton National Park, funding the Youth Conservation Program and Children in Nature. The Foundation's youth programs were chosen when Unilever further focused their efforts in national parks to advance environmental stewardship and health and well-being. The Foundation's programs bring diversity, young people, and outdoor education to Grand Teton and that's right in line with Unilever's goals.
Unilever wants to keep iconic parks pristine and relevant. "We, too, share the vision that the future of the parks lies in the engagement of young people," McVitty says. "They will be the stewards of these precious places." Relevance is a hot topic in the National Park Service today and Unilever understands that engaging young people and diverse groups in the park can be a catalyst for introducing others to these unique places and, therefore, broadening their appeal.
Unilever's good work will enrich Grand Teton National Park in a multitude of ways. Thank you for all you do for America's national parks!
