Media

UNA Announces Partnership with XRP Healthcare

United Networks of America (UNA) is thrilled to announce its partnership with XRP Healthcare, a groundbreaking healthcare company utilizing Web3 technology to revolutionize the way people access and afford prescription drugs and healthcare services worldwide.

XRP Healthcare's innovative approach to healthcare has the potential to transform the industry by leveraging blockchain technology to ensure greater transparency, security, and cost savings. UNA is honored to be working alongside a company that shares similar values of providing affordable and accessible healthcare to people from all walks of life.

XRP Healthcare's mission is to improve the lives of individuals and families in the US by offering a variety of healthcare products and services. Through this partnership, UNA will offer XRP Healthcare a discounted prescription drug program and digital card which can be used in 68,000 pharmacies across the USA, including Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy, and Walmart.

The unique partnership will allow users of the card to be rewarded in XRP Healthcare's native token (XRPH) which is paired with (USDT) when the card is used. All XRPH rewards will be distributed directly from XRP Healthcare and is not the responsibility of UNA and UNA will not be held liable for XRPH token distribution - more information on this can be found here.

Gabriel Killian, Chief Synergy Officer at Derbyshire Group, and leader of Web3 initiatives for UNA, its subsidiary, commented, "XRP Healthcare's innovative approach using Web3 technology to bring new levels of transparency and efficiency to healthcare services aligns perfectly with UNA's desire to see more healthcare needs being met for more people, more easily."

XRP Healthcare is excited about the collaboration with UNA, and the potential for this partnership to improve the health and well-being of millions of people in the US. "By leveraging Web3 technology, we're able to create a more transparent and efficient healthcare system that benefits everyone," said XRP Healthcare CEO, Kain Roomes. "We're thrilled to be partnering with UNA to make this vision a reality."

The partnership between UNA and XRP Healthcare is a significant step towards improving the healthcare industry's accessibility and affordability in the healthcare industry and making a real difference in people's lives.

"Gamechangers Laboratory" Established for Cutting-Edge Food Leaders to Accelerate New Solutions

Donation from Giving Pledge philanthropist-entrepreneur Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville inaugurates food access initiative from Winrock's Wallace Center

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - March 6, 2019 - An extraordinary gift from philanthropist-entrepreneur Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville of United Networks of America has established the "Gamechangers Laboratory," a groundbreaking initiative from the Wallace Center at Winrock International.

Through collaborations and convenings, the Gamechangers Laboratory will catalyze breakthrough ideas, strategies and innovations in community-based food systems as they expand access to good food. The initiative will leverage the power of the Food Systems Leadership Network (FSLN), a fast-growing group of almost 2,000 food systems leaders from all 50 states supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

"This is a critical time for food security in America," Jumonville said. "I believe deeply in the power of community and the importance of food access for all people. I am proud to support the creation of the Gamechangers Laboratory as part of my Giving Pledge and to encourage other donors to support this incredibly innovative effort."

In this inaugural year, the Gamechangers Laboratory will award grants and technical support to community-based leaders, organizations and multidisciplinary teams working to address intractable obstacles to sustainable, community-based food systems. The initiative will provide participants with space, time and financial resources to design, incubate and pilot innovative approaches to advance food systems change.

"We are deeply honored to announce this incredible gift from Mr. Jumonville," said Rodney Ferguson, CEO of Winrock International. "His passion for creating a world where no child is hungry aligns perfectly with the missions of Winrock International and the Wallace Center. We are humbled by his willingness to break new ground with us and grateful to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for their continued support of the Food Systems Leadership Network, on which this effort will flourish."

"We recognize that despite strong collective efforts, there are still great barriers to solving the underlying drivers of food insecurity, inequity and poverty," said program officer Susan Schempf. "Just as innovative high-tech startup leaders need time to examine the systems they seek to shift, consider the bigger picture, and get creative in their problem-solving, so too do community food systems leaders. The Gamechangers Lab will provide that opportunity."

Look for more information on the Gamechangers Lab in the months ahead or go to: https://wnrck.org/FSLN or contact Susan.Schempf@winrock.org.

ABOUT RYAN D. JUMONVILLE

Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville is a billionaire philanthropist and entrepreneur who joined the Giving Pledge in February 2019. Jumonville's company, United Networks of America, is a member of the Children's Miracle Network "Miracle Million Club." While much of his focus has been on children's healthcare, he has provided significant support to a wide variety of causes around the world.

ABOUT THE WALLACE CENTER

The Wallace Center at Winrock International develops partnerships, pilots new ideas and advances solutions to strengthen communities through resilient farming and food systems.

ABOUT THE FOOD SYSTEMS LEADERSHIP NETWORK

The Food Systems Leadership Network is a national community of practice to support leaders and staff of nonprofit, community-based organizations working on food systems change. You can join and participate in the Network, and learn more on the Community-Based Food Systems page.

ABOUT THE W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF), founded in 1930 as an independent, private foundation by breakfast cereal entrepreneur Will Keith Kellogg, is among the largest philanthropic foundations in the United States. Guided by the belief that all children should have an equal opportunity to thrive, WKKF works with communities to create conditions for vulnerable children so they can realize their full potential in school, work and life. The Kellogg Foundation is based in Battle Creek, Michigan, and works throughout the United States and internationally, as well as with sovereign tribes. Special emphasis is paid to priority places where there are high concentrations of poverty and where children face significant barriers to success. WKKF priority places in the U.S. are in Michigan, Mississippi, New Mexico and New Orleans; and internationally, are in Mexico and Haiti. For more information, visit www.wkkf.org.

ABOUT WINROCK INTERNATIONAL

Winrock International is a recognized leader in U.S. and international development with a focus on social, agricultural and environmental issues. Inspired by its namesake, Winthrop Rockefeller, Winrock combines scientific and technical expertise with entrepreneurial innovation to deliver market-based solutions that improve lives around the world. Winrock's mission is to empower the disadvantaged, increase economic opportunity and sustain natural resources across the globe.

Counties Set To Launch Free Prescription Assistance Program

Residents in Counties Across the Country will Start to Receive Cards Today

WASHINGTON, April 28, 2020 PRNewswire - County Executives of America (CEA) announced plans to begin distributing free prescription assistance cards across the country today. The free program is provided through a partnership with United Networks of America (UNA). Similar programs launched by UNA have resulted in over $10 Billion in healthcare savings.

The CEA Rx Assistance Program is being launched to help the uninsured and underinsured afford their prescription medications during this critical time. The program, which is free to everyone, provides savings of up to 80% on prescription medications. The program has no restrictions to membership, no income or age limitations, and residents are not required to fill out an application. The card is accepted at over 68,000 national and regional pharmacies.

There are plans to launch additional healthcare support programs in the coming weeks. "We will continue to explore all options to assist our member counties and their residents during and after this national COVID-19 crisis," said Michael Griffin, Executive Director of CEA. CEA is based in Washington, D.C. and represents over 700 member counties across the country.

About CEA: County Executives of America (CEA), was formed by county executives over 40 years ago and is the only non-partisan association dedicated specifically to represent chief elected county officials. CEA's current membership includes County Executives, County Judges, Parish and Borough Presidents, City-County Mayors, Commission Presidents and Chairs, and all county leaders elected at-large by the public constituency. CEA's membership currently includes more than 700 counties. Visit www.countyexecutives.org for more information.

About UNA: United Networks of America is one of the largest providers of value-added managed care products and services in the United States. UNA has more than 240,000 participating providers serving more than 120.1 million members. The UNA family of networks includes prescription drug, cosmetic surgery, dental, vision, hearing and wellness benefits. UNA clients include TPA's, insurance companies, associations, universities, federal and state governments, school systems, value-added programs, and large employers. Visit www.unitednetworksofamerica.com for more information.

United Networks of America Provides Much Needed Support to Children's Hospitals

SALT LAKE CITY - Children's Miracle Network Hospitals is proud to announce that is has partnered with United Networks of America (UNA), one of the largest providers of value-added managed care products and services in the country.

UNA Rx Card, the nations largest prescription assistance card provider, has committed a minimum of $1 million to fund program growth and development to help the charity's 170 member hospitals across North America to provide critical treatments, services and charitable care for sick and injured kids.

"We are pleased to partner with United Networks of America to provide much-needed support for our children's hospitals," said John Lauck, president and CEO of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. "They, too, understand the complexities of the health care system and want to make that system easier for families in need."

"We share the vision of Children's Miracle Network and their hospitals," said Ryan Jumonville, chairman of United Networks of America. "We also believe that together we can save kids' lives."

Donation To Provide More Than 100 Homes To Single Mothers

RYAN D. "JUME" JUMONVILLE MAKES RECORD DONATION TO WARRICK DUNN CHARITIES

July 29, 2019 - Warrick Dunn Charities, Inc. (WDC), which is recognized across the country for its Home for the Holidays program, is proud to announce a multi-million dollar gift that will make 100 families across the United States first-time homeowners. The donation from Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville is the largest gift in the 22 year history of the non-profit. To date, WDC has worked with 170 families to provide them with a first-time, permanent home.

"This gift is transformational," Dunn said. "The generosity shown will not only impact the families that move into these homes, but their future generations. But more than that, it demonstrates how businesses can change and improve the conditions of a community."

Dunn's Homes for the Holidays program, established in 1997, was inspired by the tragic death of his mother, Betty Smothers, a Louisiana police officer killed by armed robbers during an extra-duty security job. After the death of his mother, Dunn became the main provider for his five younger siblings. Dunn went on to become a celebrated running back in the NFL and is today a minority stakeholder in the Atlanta Falcons organization.

Dunn and Jumonville initially became friends while playing football together at Catholic High School in Baton Rouge, LA in the early 1990s. "I've supported Warrick's charitable efforts for many years now and have witnessed the great impact he is making in the lives of these families," Jumonville said. "It is an honor to team up with Warrick to move these deserving mothers and their children out of poverty and into a stable home life."

Homes for the Holidays currently operates in Atlanta, Baton Rouge, Jacksonville, Tampa/St. Pete, Tallahassee, New Orleans, Dallas/Houston, Nashville, Newark, Milwaukee, Baltimore, Augusta and Detroit. The gift from Jumonville will allow more families to gain entry to their own homes and expand the program to previously unserved communities.

About Warrick Dunn Charities:
Warrick Dunn Charities, Inc. is committed to improving lives through innovative programming inspired by our founder's life journey. Since 1997, the Homes for the Holidays program has helped 170 families and 459 children and dependents achieve first-time home ownership. Serving single parent families nationwide, WDC and its partners have helped single parents combat poverty and hunger and ensure families have basic necessities and comfortable surroundings in order to improve their quality of life. For more information, visit www.wdc.org.

Children's Miracle Network Hospitals® to benefit from a new partnership with United Networks of America

SALT LAKE CITY (March 24, 2016) Children's Miracle Network Hospitals is proud to announce that is has partnered with United Networks of America (UNA), one of the largest providers of value-added managed care products and services in the country.

UNA Rx Card, the nations largest prescription assistance card provider, has committed a minimum of $1 million to fund program growth and development to help the charity's 170 member hospitals across North America to provide critical treatments, services and charitable care for sick and injured kids.

"We are pleased to partner with United Networks of America to provide much-needed support for our children's hospitals," said John Lauck, president and CEO of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. "They, too, understand the complexities of the health care system and want to make that system easier for families in need."

"We share the vision of Children's Miracle Network and their hospitals," said Ryan Jumonville, chairman of United Networks of America. "We also believe that together we can save kids' lives."

About Children's Miracle Networks Hospitals
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Since 1983, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $5 billion, most of it $1 at a time through the charity's Miracle Balloon icon. Its various fundraising partners and programs support the nonprofit's mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Find out why children's hospitals need community support, and learn about your member hospital, at CMNHospitals.org and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

About United Networks of America
United Networks of America is one of the largest providers of value added managed care products and services in the United States. UNA has more than 240,000 participating Providers serving more than 120.1 million members across the country.

To learn more about United Networks of America, please visit www.unitednetworksofamerica.com, or www.unarxcard.com for more on the national prescription assistance program.

Read the official Children's Miracle Network Hospitals press release here: unitednetworksofamerica.childrensmiraclenetworkhospitals.org/united-networks-of-america-provides-much-needed-support-to-childrens-hospitals/

Media Contacts
Dana White, V.P. Media/Public Relations dwhite@unitednetworksofamerica.com
800.726.4232

Sally Gilotti, Sr. Director, External Communications
sgilotti@cmnhospitals.org
801.214.6617

Baton Rouge Native Helps Desire Community Square Reach Goal

NEW ORLEANS, LA (June 30, 2016) - Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville, a Baton Rouge native, provided critical support to help fund the new $11.1 million dollar Desire Community Square.

"We are so grateful to Jume for his support and are thrilled to know that we can finish the Desire Community Square project on time and join in revitalizing the Ninth Ward. We appreciate receiving a FEMA assistance grant, in addition to funds we're raising from private donors for non-covered items, as we rebuild on the site of our New Orleans ministry campus that was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina," said Danny Wuerffel.

Founded in the Ninth Ward of New Orleans in 1990, Desire Street is preparing, nearly eleven years after Hurricane Katrina, to host a grand reopening of its campus on August 27th. The new Desire Community Square will contain a full-service medical clinic, a children's early learning center, and a community wellness center.

"I love Louisiana, and if the heart of Louisiana is Baton Rouge, its soul is most definitely New Orleans. The culture, character, and spirit of the people of New Orleans is unmatched. Danny Wuerffel understands this and believes that every child in this great city deserves to have a place like the Desire Community Square," said Jumonville.

About Desire Street Ministries
Desire Street Ministries partners with urban ministries to encourage, equip, empower and connect them so they can become sustainable and thrive for the long-run necessary to revitalize impoverished neighborhoods through spiritual and community development. The rebuilding project in New Orleans is aimed at not only replacing what was lost, but contributing to an improved quality of life in the Ninth Ward. Serving inner-city partner ministries across the Southeast, Desire Street Ministries is led by former New Orleans Saints and Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Danny Wuerffel. What began with volunteering to spend time with kids in the Desire neighborhood, developed into a passion he couldn't ignore and a vision to see every neighborhood become a desirable place to live. Upon retiring from professional football in 2004, Mr. Wuerffel went to work for Desire Street full-time.

For more information on Desire Street and its ministry partners, see www.desirestreet.org, and Facebook (www.facebook.com/desirestreet).

Media Contact:
Diane Hitzfeld
dhitzfeld@desirestreet.org

Free Program Helps Provide Affordable Prescriptions

Dr. Oz Blog

A free discount program run by the United Networks of America (UNA) aims to lower the cost of prescription drugs and other health services for all people regardless of income or age. With discounts up to 75%, the program seeks to help people with no or inadequate insurance gain access to more affordable medications, dental care, hearing exams, eyeglasses and diabetic supplies.

By using a free prescription drug discount card, people can get between 10% and 75% off prescription drug costs. The card is available to people without a prescription drug plan or as a supplement for people with an insured prescription program. It may also be used by seniors who have Medicare Part D and can even be used to buy prescriptions for pets. According to the UNA website, the card is accepted by more than 58,000 pharmacies in the U.S., and in 2011 it collectively helped save members an estimated $1.31 billion in prescription costs.

The same discount program also helps defray the cost of hearing aids, eyeglasses, contact lenses and some vision correction surgeries. Families may take advantage of a discounted dental program, and diabetics can get cheaper supplies through a mail order program that does not require pre-authorization.

The card, shown below, may be printed out from the website for immediate use.

Link to Blog: blog.doctoroz.com/in-the-news/free-program-helps-provide-affordable-prescriptions

United Networks of America Supports The National Sheriffs' Association

National Seriffs' Association Letter

NATIONAL SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION

JONATHAN F. THOMPSON
Executive Director and CEO

August 21, 2020

Ryan Jumonville
Chairman
United Networks of America
3636 S. Sherwood Forest Boulevard, Suite 440 Baton Rouge, LA 70816

Dear Mr. Jumonville:

I write to thank you and the dozens of individuals and organizations who assisted the National Sheriffs' Association in its landmark effort to advise and protect our members from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. While thank you seems so inadequate, it represents the gratitude of thousands of sheriffs, deputies, state executives, and their staffs that worked tirelessly to disperse fact-based information that was actionable; and supplies that protected thousands of deputies and those in need.

While the U.S. Department of Justice COPS funding to sustain our effort has run its course, we are nevertheless, profoundly grateful for their leadership. Unfortunately, we are forced to shut down our in-depth outreach and research efforts.

On the following page is a list of those we thank, as well as their organizations. We hope you will recognize that you and your organization are part of a special team of support to law enforcement across the nation. The enclosed Certificate of Appreciation is something we hope you can display prominently. We are a safer country because of your commitment and the continued dedication of the dozens of staffers and organizations that made our effort an immeasurable success.

Remain well, be safe, and thank you!

United Networks of America celebrates $1 million donated to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals during annual conference

Click Here to View Original Story

On February 6th, 2017, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals account manager Kieriay Moyer and Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital program director Danny Fields joined over 250 key stakeholders of United Networks of America to talk about who Children's Miracle Network Hospitals is and how United Networks of America can build local relationships with hospital program directors across the country. Program directors and representatives for every state Rx Card were encouraged to reach out to their local hospital, build a relationship and learn how Children's Miracle Network Hospital funds support the children treated in their local community.

After the conference, the United Networks of America team presented a check in recognition of the over $1 million that has been donated since the beginning of the partnership in December 2015. From L to R: Janay Giblin, Senior Vice President - Mid America Operations; Michael Perrault, Senior vice President - East Coast Operations; Ryan Jumonville, Founder and Chairman; Kieriay Moyer, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Manager - Activation; J. Brian Oliver, Chief Executive Officer; and Dana Crowe, Vice President - Media and Public Relations.

California Rx Card Saves Californians Thousands in Annual Prescription Costs

(Orange, CA) – Thousands of Californians Receive Free Prescription Drug Card Since California Rx Card Launched Oct. 1

The California Rx Card Program (www.californiarxcard.com) announced today that more than 55,000 Californians have received a free prescription drug card since the program launched Oct. 1. The California Rx Card can be used at thousands of pharmacies across the state to receive savings of up to 75 percent (savings average around 30 percent). Participating pharmacies include Rite Aid, Walgreens, Albertsons, K-mart, Longs Drug Stores, Ralphs Pharmacy, Sav-on, other chain drug stores, and thousands of independent pharmacies.

California residents can download a free discount prescription drug card by visiting www.californiarxcard.com. The California Rx Card Program has no restrictions or participation requirements and is open to every California resident.

"The California Rx Card was launched to help the uninsured and under-insured people of California afford prescription medications," said Edward J. Brown III, California Rx Card Program director. "The program can also be used by people who have health insurance coverage with no prescription benefits (common in many HSAs and high deductible health plans). Also, people who have prescription coverage can use this program for non-formulary or non-covered drugs. This program even covers some pet medications (those available at participating pharmacies)."

Orange County, Calif.-based The Word & Brown Companies (CHOICE Administrators(R), which includes CaliforniaChoice(R), CaliforniaChoice 51+, Kaiser Permanente Choice Solution and Contractors Choice(R); The Word & Brown General Agency, and CONEXIS) is sponsoring The California Rx Card Program throughout the state.

"We work with insurance brokers to distribute quality and affordable healthcare programs to California employers and we know there is still a large population of uninsured people in the state," said Edward J. "Rusty" Brown, Jr., co-founder of The Word & Brown Companies. "We think the California Rx Card can make a big difference for people who have limited insurance benefits or no insurance at all, and we want to do our part to help make affordable prescription drugs available."

We're excited to have the opportunity to work with The Word & Brown Companies to provide the people of California with free access to prescription discounts," said Ryan Jumonville, president and chief executive officer of United Networks of America. "We've successfully launched programs in New York, Alabama, Texas, New Jersey, Ohio, Utah, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana, Arizona, Colorado, and Tennessee. We've saved the residents of these states millions of dollars and look forward to doing the same for the people of California."

This program is powered by UNA Rx Card, which is a division of United Networks of America. UNA Rx Card is the fastest-growing discount prescription card company in the United States. Brian Oliver, executive vice president of UNA Rx Card, noted that "The free Rx program has brought almost $66 million in prescription savings to members around the country in the short history of the program, with calendar year savings for 2007 projected to approach $100 million."

Local entrepreneur donates one million meals to Food Bank

Just in time to make the holidays merrier for Baton Rouge families, local entrepreneur Ryan D. Jumonville has donated one million meals to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to help feed children that are food insecure and missing meals on a daily basis. Jumonville, CEO of Baton Rouge based United Networks of America, was inspired to give a helping hand to these children during a time when the Food Bank so desperately needs the support. "I recently read a report that ranked Louisiana #1 in food insecure children under 5 years old. More than 1 out of every 4 children in Louisiana are food insecure," said Jumonville. "That means that children are unable to consistently access adequate amounts of food. Louisianans are too proud a people to allow children to go hungry in our great State. Louisiana is famous for having world class cuisine. It is difficult to take pride in that knowing we have kids that are going hungry. I truly believe that once this message gets out the people of Louisiana will come together to resolve this crisis," said Jumonville. "We are grateful and humbled by this generous donation that will be put to good use in feeding those less fortunate in our community. Food is a basic human need and no child should have to go to bed or wake up hungry every day," said Michael Manning, President and CEO of the Food Bank. The Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank will use this donation to expand its programs to help identify and feed children in need. One of the new tools will be a dedicated e-mail hotline (4kids@brfoodbank.org) that can be used to contact the organization regarding children in need. If you are interested in helping children and families in need visit brfoodbank.org.

Homes for the Holidays gets local support

ATLANTA, Ga. (July 5, 2011) - Atlanta Falcons Limited Partner Warrick Dunn and his former Catholic High School teammate Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville today announced a major gift to the Homes for the Holidays (HFTH) program. The $75,000 donation by Jumonville will be used to provide down-payment assistance and decor for five (5) single-parent families to achieve their American Dream of first-time home ownership.

The Warrick Dunn Family Foundation (WD-FF) is dedicated to providing opportunities for economically-disadvantaged single parents and children who have demonstrated a commitment to achieve financial independence and stability. The HFTH program, with corporate partner Aaron's, Inc., has rewarded 104 single parents and 278 children and dependents who have reached the American Dream of first-time homeownership in Atlanta, Ga., Baton Rouge, La., Tallahassee and Tampa, Fla., since 1997.

"We are very happy and grateful. This is a generous gift, and we celebrate it as recognition of the new relationship between Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville and my Foundation. It parallels my long-standing friendship with Jume spanning back to our days at Catholic High School in Baton Rouge," said Warrick Dunn.

Jennifer J. Maxwell, executive director of WD-FF, offered: "We're thrilled that Mr. Jumonville has stepped forward as a lead donor of the Homes for the Holidays program. His generous gift enables us to further our mission of helping those who help themselves."

"I believe the true measure of a man is derived from the positive impact he has on others. Warrick Dunn is the definition of class and character and I am proud to support him in his endeavor to help single parents that have earned and deserve assistance. I hope this gift will encourage others in the Baton Rouge area to support this wonderful program," said Jumonville.

About the Warrick Dunn Family Foundation
Warrick Dunn Charities, Inc. d.b.a. The Warrick Dunn Family Foundation is dedicated to providing opportunities for economically disadvantaged single parents and children who have demonstrated a commitment to achieve financial independence and stability. The Foundation's Homes for the Holidays program, with corporate partner Aaron's, Inc., has rewarded 104 single parents and 278 children and dependents who have reached the American Dream of first-time homeownership in Atlanta, Ga., Baton Rouge, La., Tallahassee and Tampa, Fla., since 1997. For more information, visit www.wd-ff.org.

BREW Pitch Night guarantees winner up to $1 million investment; application deadline Oct. 3

Baton Rouge area businesses will have the chance to secure up to $1 million of committed investment capital at this year's annual Pitch Night happening during Baton Rouge Entrepreneurship Week 2014.

Organizers will select up to four businesses to pitch their ideas in an ABC Network Shark Tank-style competition to a panel of venture capitalists, entrepreneurs and investors from across the country.

BREW Pitch Night will be held Nov. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Manship Theater in downtown Baton Rouge, however the deadline for applications is Friday (Oct. 31) at 3 p.m. CST.

In recent years, winners were not guaranteed investment funds from the judges, though on-the-spot deals were voiced.

Last year's winners, owners of Pixel Dash Studio, did receive funding, however organizers did not detail the amount and business owners are under a confidentiality agreement.

In 2012, however, local business leaders pledged more than $300,000 in angel investment funds to companies at the event. A $200,00 deal was discussed with the winner, owner of Whipsy, a New Orleans-based company that makes alcohol-infused whipped cream, however, the deal was dead as of March, 2013.

But Baton Rouge entrepreneur Jared Loftus, who helped organize BREW Pitch Night 2013 said the fact that deals fell through and some business owners did not have a detailed business plan to keep investors interested is all part of the business.

"About 30 percent of deals that even happen on Shark Tank actually pan out. Nobody's putting money into a company because of a five-minute, or even an hour presentation. If you're interested, you follow up with the due diligence," Loftus said, so the BREW sharks were no different, he added.

But this year, while all judges still have the option invest in any of the companies, Ryan "Jume" Jumonville, founder and chairman of the board for United Networks of America (UNA), has committed to investing up to $1 million in the company selected by he and his CEO J. Brian Oliver, pending due diligence by UNA and its advisors.

Additionally, a $5,000 cash prize, sponsored by MESH | Integrated Marketing & Advertising and Ogwyn Bonaventure, LLC, will go to the crowd favorite business. In past BREW Pitch Night years, crowd favorite prizes were given from funds collected by night-of donators.

Companies that are among the four selected will be required to participate in at least two free coaching sessions to practice their pitch and presentation.

And if companies don't make it to the final four, they'll have the chance to attend a 90-second "Quick Pitch Lightening Round" where they can pitch their idea to the audience and judges for their chance at a $500 cash prize sponsored by Chase Bank.

CHS Building Rededicated the Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville '91 Health and Athletic Performance Center

On Monday, May 19, the Health & PE Building was rededicated the Ryan D. "Jume" Jumonville '91 Health and Athletic Performance Center.

Jumonville's $1 million sponsorship of Catholic High School will be dedicated to assist with construction costs for capital improvements on the $2.5 million Track and Field complex. Construction of the new Track and Field is set to begin on May 20.

CVHN's New Dental Clinic to Aid Goal of Dental Care for All Kids

Children Volunteer Health Network hosted a ribbon cutting for its new on-site dental clinic on Lynn Drive, next door to its administration building, Friday, May 04, 2012 shortly before noon. The new clinic is in addition to the organization's mobile unit and offers three treatment rooms and the latest in dental technology.

Approximately 50 people, including several county officials, were on hand to help celebrate the new chapter in the non-profits continuing success. Tricia Carlisle-Northcutt, founder and president of CVHN, gave opening remarks, along with County Commissioner Cecelia Jones. Prior to the ceremony, Executive Director Zach Billingsley offered SoWal these insights.

How did the idea of a brick and mortar clinic come about?
We purchased two buildings in October 2009 with the intention of having one building be our administrative office and the other to be used to expand our services at some point in the future.

Over the past few years, we noticed 65 percent of the kids being seen on our Mobile Dental Clinic had severe decay requiring prompt restorative care. Our in-network volunteer providers are taking on as many kids as they can but it's just not enough.

There have been up to 25 kids at a time on our waiting lists for restorative care. We applied for a grant in 2010 to build out and equip the second building to become a three chair dental facility. We were blessed to be awarded the funding to make this dream a reality and here we are today.

How has the dental clinic been funded?
Our dream of this clinic has become reality because of the Dugas Family Foundation. We have also received generous support from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation of Florida. Individuals like Ryan Jumonville, a Destin resident, are participating in the fundraising campaign for the clinic. The majority of our operating funds come from corporate sponsors and individuals within the community. We have various naming opportunities available inside the clinic that will help us reach our annual fundraising goal for the clinic of $250,000.

Do you still need items to furnish the clinic?
No furnishings are needed at this time. Dental supplies such as toothbrushes, floss and toothpaste are always needed.

How many children do you estimate the clinic will see, monthly, yearly?
We are currently getting the word out to schools in Okaloosa and Walton counties with the hope of reaching around 84 kids a month and 1,000 kids per year.

Is there anything you would like people to know about CVHN
Our hope is the addition of this clinic in combination with the CVHN Volunteer Provider Network, our Mobile Dental Clinic and other resources in our area, will allow all uninsured and underinsured children in Walton and Okaloosa County to have access to quality dental care. We welcome the community to call our office to learn more about becoming involved.

You can visit CVHN to learn more at www.cvhnkids.org or www.facebook.com/cvhnkids.

Peyton Manning Golf Classic: June 20, 2016

The 2015 Peyton Manning Golf Classic with the help of United Networks of America raised more than $166,000 for the East Tennessee Children's Hospital.

The Peyton Manning Golf Classic is an annual summer fundraising event in Knoxville that benefits both East Tennessee Children's Hospital and the PeyBack Foundation. At the event, more than 200 golfers in 4-player teams enjoy a round of golf in the morning or afternoon and get to spend time with former University of Tennessee quarterback and current Denver Broncos quarterback, Peyton Manning. The PeyBack Foundation, established by Peyton Manning in 1999, promotes the future success of disadvantaged youth by assisting programs that provide leadership and growth opportunities for children at risk. East Tennessee Children's Hospital uses the proceeds from the event to purchase vital services and equipment.

Peyton Manning will be present at the tournament and visiting with golfers throughout the day at Fox Den Country Club in Farragut. The day of golf will include breakfast, lunch, a 19th hole reception, photo opportunities with Manning and much more.

"We are so thankful to Peyton Manning for including East Tennessee Children's Hospital as a key recipient of his Golf Classic this year. It was a great day to play a round and exciting to see golfers who have supported this tournament for many years continue to participate and support Children's Hospital. When you combine a favorite hometown athlete with a golf event that raises money for two worthwhile charities, it's a hole-in-one day for everyone involved."

United Networks of America is a proud sponsor of East Tennessee Children's Hospital. The 2015 Peyton Manning Golf Classic with the help of United Networks of America raised more than $166,000 that will help provide life-saving care to the children treated at East Tennessee Children's Hospital.

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2018 Folds of Honor Scholarship Presentation

2018 Folds of Honor Scholarship Presentation

United Networks of America once again helped to provide scholarships to spouses and children of America's fallen and disabled service-members.

ABOUT FOLDS OF HONOR SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships are used to subsidize the costs of tuition, school books, fees, on-campus room and board, approved educational tutoring, and other approved educational expenses that a student's school may deem appropriate. Since 2007, the Folds of Honor has carried forth this singular, noble mission. To provide educational scholarships to spouses and children of America's fallen and disabled service-members.

Our motto says it best. "Honor Their Sacrifice. Educate Their Legacy."

Folds of Honor Foundation: Warrior for Freedom Award presented to United Networks of America

United Networks of America is honored to be a recipient of the Warriors for Freedom Foundation Award from the Folds of Honor Foundation. This foundation was established in 2011 by Maj. Ed Pulido, Brett Dick and Sgt. Scott Momper to serve as a non-profit leadership program that educated veterans on public speaking and sharing their story. The foundation fills a need to assist veterans as they transition from military life to civilian life through recreational and social activities and speaking engagements. Additionally, the foundation provides scholarships and other resources that assist the family through programs and partnering agencies. Warriors for Freedom Foundation supports local organizations that support our veterans, such as Silent War Foundation, Folds of Honor Foundation, A Chance to Change, Homeless Alliance, The Real Warriors Campaign, Heartline and NorthCare.

Warrior for Freedom Award presented to United Networks of America