Latest news with #ArborDayFoundation
Business Insider
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
Top YouTube star MrBeast runs a charity organization, called Beast Philanthropy, giving away money and eye surgeries
MrBeast is known for his over-the-top viral videos and over-the-top charitable acts. The YouTube star, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, has given away millions of dollars in his videos to causes such as the Arbor Day Foundation and The Ocean Cleanup. The 26-year-old started on YouTube by posting videos under the username MrBeast6000 from Donaldson's hometown of Greenville, North Carolina, where he still lives. In 2017, he went viral with a video in which he counted from zero to 100,000, beginning a journey that led him to become YouTube's top creator. He has over 395 million subscribers on YouTube. While MrBeast's net worth is unknown, he said in February 2025 that he's a billionaire on paper. His charitable stunts and giveaways have helped him go viral. In 2021, he challenged participants to remain in a circle and gave the last person to leave $500,000. The video gained over 500 million views. MrBeast also runs a charity organization called Beast Philanthropy, which works on campaigns to donate money and resources. It also runs a food bank, called The Beast Pantry, in North Carolina. The Beast Philanthropy YouTube channel has over 27 million subscribers. Donaldson began incorporating philanthropy into his content back in 2017, after inking his first brand sponsorship deal on YouTube. He was paid $10,000 for the brand deal, and in the video, he gave the money away as tips to pizza delivery drivers. The giveaway changed the trajectory of Donaldson's content strategy. From then on, he created content about giving money away to people in his community, Twitch streamers, and even food delivery drivers. At first, Donaldson's giveaways helped him go viral online, which in turn allowed him to donate more money to various people and charities. But over time, his charity efforts became controversial. MrBeast's philanthropic efforts: from giveaways to charity stunts MrBeast has given away gobs of cash to a wide range of causes, including planting trees, cleaning the ocean, and even paying for someone's cataract surgery. In 2019, Donaldson hit national news for his online campaign to raise money to plant 20 million trees. He partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation on the movement called #TeamTrees, which even attracted funding from Elon Musk. MrBeast typically funds these charity stunts through his businesses, sponsorship deals, and advertising earnings from his YouTube channel. He's built a team to run his philanthropic efforts. It includes Darren Margolias, who worked in real estate development, and has become the face of Beast Philanthropy. Donaldson's charity efforts have also had a cultural impact, making charity both "cool" and entertaining. Backlash to MrBeast's philanthropy MrBeast's charity stunts have also drawn critics who say his philanthropic efforts are self-serving. For instance, in 2023, he received backlash on Twitter for his video in which he gifted eye surgeries. Donaldson responded on the social platform, now called X, pointing out the irony: "Twitter - Rich people should help others with their money. Me - Okay, I'll use my money to help people and I promise to give away all my money before I die. Every single penny. Twitter - MrBeast bad." This was far from the only time Donaldson has been accused of being performative in his charitable acts. Some on the internet have even called his videos staged. His grand gestures have been accused of failing to contribute to fixing systemic issues like poverty and instead being performed for entertainment. For example, after his 2024 video titled "I Built 100 Houses And Gave Them Away," some fans online criticized the YouTuber for using the subjects of the video to get views. He also sparked controversy in 2023 when Donaldson gifted a car to a waitress in a TikTok video. Some fans said online that they were disappointed that the car displayed his YouTube logo and the name of his chocolate brand, Feastables, accusing him of using the giveaway for promotion. In times of backlash, MrBeast has typically shrugged off any criticism and doubled down that he's not giving up on giving back.
Business Wire
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Dollar Tree Surpasses 9,000 Stores Across North America, Marking Major Growth Milestone
CHESAPEAKE, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dollar Tree, Inc. (NASDAQ: DLTR) is proud to announce it has surpassed a major retail milestone with the opening of its 9,000 th store, reinforcing the company's position as one of the fastest-growing and most powerful value retailers in North America. With a footprint now spanning thousands of communities across the U.S. and Canada, this achievement reflects Dollar Tree's steadfast focus on delivering value, convenience, and 'thrill of the hunt' discovery in every aisle of every store. In celebration of this growth – and as a symbol of establishing roots in every community it serves – Dollar Tree is partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant 9,000 trees across North America. 'Reaching 9,000 stores is a powerful indicator of the strength of our brand and the loyalty of our associates and customers,' said Mike Creedon, Chief Executive Officer, Dollar Tree, Inc. From everyday essentials to unexpected delights, Dollar Tree is where shoppers come for unbeatable prices and leave with more than they expected. Whether it's stocking up on trusted brands or uncovering the latest seasonal find, the experience is all about the 'thrill of the hunt' – and with 9,000 stores and counting, that thrill is never far away. 'Reaching 9,000 stores is a powerful indicator of the strength of our brand and the loyalty of our associates and customers,' said Mike Creedon, Chief Executive Officer, Dollar Tree, Inc. 'It's also a testament to our profitable growth strategy, creating long-term value for our shareholders. And perhaps most importantly, every new Dollar Tree store helps us deliver on our promise to offer great value, convenience, and the 'thrill of the hunt' discovery for millions of families in North America.' Dollar Tree is partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant 9,000 trees in support of strategic reforestation efforts across eastern Texas, including within Davy Crockett National Forest and Sam Houston National Forest. Dollar Tree is committed to investing in opportunities that positively impact the well-being, resilience, and livability of the communities it serves. Through this partnership, the Arbor Day Foundation is helping to maximize that impact by providing ecological benefits for future generations and restoring vulnerable ecosystems that help support the health of nearby communities. Dollar Tree will commemorate this achievement locally with a grand opening celebration at the official 9,000 th store in Plano, Texas. The 9,000 th Dollar Tree store, located at 5920 W. Park Blvd features the latest store format designed to enhance the shopping experience, with an expanded product selection and updated layouts to make it easier than ever to explore all that Dollar Tree has to offer. Locally, the first 100 customers to arrive at the new Plano store on Thursday, May 15 (5920 W. Park Blvd., Plano, TX 75093) will receive a $20 Dollar Tree gift card. A WARNING ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as that term is used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they address future events, developments or results and do not relate strictly to historical facts. Any statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements preceded by, followed by or including words such as: 'believe', 'anticipate', 'expect', 'intend', 'plan', 'view', 'target' or 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'predict', 'possible', 'potential', 'continue', 'strategy', and similar expressions. For example, our forward-looking statements include statements relating to our plans and expectations regarding our business, growth strategy, long-term value, and other objectives and expectations. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could affect our future events, developments or results, you should carefully review the 'Risk Factors,' 'Business' and 'Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations' sections in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 26, 2025 and other filings we make from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We are not obligated to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this report and you should not expect us to do so. About Dollar Tree, Inc. Dollar Tree, a Fortune 200 Company, operated 16,500 stores across 48 states and five Canadian provinces as of February 1, 2025. Stores operate under the brands of Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, and Dollar Tree Canada. To learn more about the Company, visit About Arbor Day Foundation The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporters united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees. For more than 50 years, they've answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners. And this is only the beginning. The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees. Learn more at
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Muscatine earns Tree City USA recognition for 33rd year in a row
Muscatine has once again earned national recognition as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, marking the 33rd consecutive year the city has received the honor for its strong commitment to tree planting, maintenance, and environmental stewardship. 'Being named a Tree City USA for over three decades is no small feat,' said Matt Mardesen, city administrator. 'It's a reflection of our community's shared values—clean air, green spaces, and a healthier future for the next generation.' The Tree City USA program recognizes cities that meet four core standards: having a tree board or department, adopting a tree care ordinance, investing at least $2 per resident in urban forestry, and hosting an annual Arbor Day celebration. Muscatine has consistently met and exceeded these requirements. 'We're proud of the work our Parks and Recreation team and volunteers do every year to maintain our tree canopy,' said Melissa Baker, park maintenance supervisor. 'Trees don't just beautify our neighborhoods—they improve mental health, reduce flooding, and make our city more resilient.' Trees provide a wide range of benefits to Muscatine residents: they cool down streets and homes, reduce storm water runoff, boost property values, and improve overall well-being. The Arbor Day Foundation notes that planting the right tree in the right place also helps cut energy costs and traffic noise. 'We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Muscatine are leading the way,' said Michelle Saulnier, vice president of programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. 'Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation's cities. We're proud Muscatine is among the Arbor Day Foundation's growing network of communities dedicated to creating positive impact through trees.' Muscatine's designation is part of a nationwide movement supported by the Arbor Day Foundation, the USDA Forest Service, and the National Association of State Foresters. Since its founding in 1972, the Foundation and its partners have helped plant more than 500 million trees in more than 60 countries. For more information about Tree City USA or how to participate, visit here. About the Arbor Day Foundation The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. With a global network of more than 1 million members and partners, the Foundation is working toward a greener, healthier future—one tree at a time. Learn more here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Chicago Tribune
13-05-2025
- General
- Chicago Tribune
Grant funding supports 50 new trees in Indian Head Park
A $25,000 matching grant to support the planting of more than 50 trees on public property in the fall and next spring is a perfect fit for Indian Head Park. The village has been a Tree City USA community for 35 years, a designation by the Arbor Day Foundation, which has a mission of inspiring people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. 'The village values its wildlife and the beauty of nature,' said Joe Coons, Indian Head Park's director of Public Works. 'Also, the village has a no fence ordinance in place, so planting trees becomes even more important for screening and beautification.' The grant funding is provided by the Urban and Community Forestry Programs of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service – Eastern Region. The village has allocated an additional $25,000 from the approved 2025/2026 budget to support the project. The program is administered by The Morton Arboretum's Chicago Region Trees Initiative, which supports urban forestry planning and implementation efforts throughout the region. 'This grant allows Indian Head Park to continue our legacy of environmental stewardship by strengthening our urban tree canopy for generations to come,' Village President Amy Jo Wittenberg said in a statement. 'As a Tree City USA community for 35 years, proactive tree management and canopy enhancement remain top priorities. These new trees will improve quality of life and build resilience against environmental stressors, pests and diseases.' Urban Tree Canopy is the leafy, green, overhead cover from trees that community groups, residents, and local governments maintain in the landscape for beauty, shade, fruit production, wildlife habitat, energy conservation, stormwater mitigation and a host of public health and educational values, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 'A good tree canopy not only makes the community beautiful, but it also helps with keeping temperatures cooler during the summer months,' Coons said. 'It also helps with flood mitigation.' Coons said the planting locations for the additional trees will be identified using the village's in-progress Urban Forestry Management Plan, which includes a detailed tree inventory report. 'The inventory will evaluate tree quantity, species, condition, and size, helping guide reforestation decisions and tree maintenance strategies into the future,' he said. Coons said the village usually tries to plant at least 20 trees per year. The grant will allow Indian Head Park to plant more trees than otherwise would be the case, he said. Newly planted trees will be a mix of replacements for existing trees and additional ones. Indian Head Park is one of 186 places in Illinois that have received the Tree City USA designation.
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
City of Galesburg celebrates Arbor Day
The City of Galesburg celebrated Arbor Day on Friday, April 25, by planting a Swamp White Oak at King Elementary School, according to a news release. The event was held at 10:30 a.m. and featured participation from Heather Barker's fourth-grade class, along with many students, members of the Galesburg Tree Commission, and the city's forestry crew. (The City of Galesburg) The annual Arbor Day celebration highlights Galesburg's continued commitment to urban forestry and environmental stewardship. The city has been recognized as a Tree City USA for 25 consecutive years by the Arbor Day Foundation, and this year received the Tree City Growth Award for the seventh time — the third year in a row. In addition to ongoing forestry efforts, Project 350, launched in 2022, continues to thrive. The initiative aimed to plant 70 trees annually in city parks and terraces over five years. The group of volunteers has planted over 480 trees in only three years and continues to plant trees throughout the city. 'This year's Arbor Day planting at King School was a wonderful reflection of our community's dedication to sustainability and environmental education,' said Don Miles, director of Parks & Recreation for the City of Galesburg. 'Involving students helps foster a lifelong appreciation for trees and their vital role in our ecosystem.' Arbor Day, observed annually on the last Friday in April in Illinois, began in 1872 in Nebraska with the planting of more than 1 million trees. 'The City of Galesburg is proud to continue this tradition and encourages all residents to join in celebrating the value trees bring to our environment and community,' the release says. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF -
