3BL Network Effect: Disaster Response & Sustainability in Charlotte

During the devastating flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, when local, state, and federal emergency resources were stretched thin, businesses played a crucial role in delivering aid to affected communities. Leaders from North Carolina-based companies will share their insights on disaster response and their ongoing sustainability and social impact initiatives at 3BL’s Network Effect: Charlotte on Dec. 11 at the Truist Center. The event is free, with registration required.

The half-day program—3BL’s eighth regional event—welcomes professionals in corporate social responsibility, sustainability, social impact, communications, marketing, and investor relations from various companies, agencies, and nonprofits. A breakfast will be provided.

“Charlotte companies generously deployed their extensive resources to assist when severe flooding impacted the region in September and October,” said Dave Armon, 3BL vice chair and host of Network Effect: Charlotte. “We’re eager to explore how strategic disaster planning and innovative leadership helped provide essential services to isolated and affected communities. A dozen local business leaders will discuss the strategic importance of strong sustainability and social impact programs, sharing insights into their careers, current roles, challenges, and opportunities.”

Participating organizations include Albemarle, Compass Group, Duke Energy, Ideas on Purpose, Mower, NASCAR, Nucor, Trane Technologies, Trips for Kids Charlotte, and Truist.

In addition to panels and fireside chats, the event will feature research on consumer views regarding sustainability, allowing Carolina-based companies, nonprofits, and NGOs to explore potential partnerships for greater impact.

Key topics include:

• Size of the Prize: The Billion-Dollar Impact of Growing Consumer Demand

Dave Armon, Vice Chair, 3BL Research reveals that sustainability-driven brand loyalty accounts for $44 billion across 12 U.S. industries.

• Evolution of ESG Strategy and Reporting Practices

Featuring speakers from Albemarle and Nucor, this session addresses the shift in ESG strategy to meet regulatory demands, while also serving diverse stakeholders.

• Business Leads Hurricane Helene Relief

Leaders from Truist and Duke Energy will discuss the vital role of advance planning and adaptable response to community needs during the Hurricane Helene crisis.

• Driving STEM Forward

This session highlights initiatives from NASCAR and Trips for Kids Charlotte to inspire middle schoolers to consider STEM careers, creating a potential talent pipeline for tech-driven industries.

• Chef of the Board

Chef Chris Ivens-Brown of Compass Group will share his unique journey from chef to board member, representing the culinary perspective in high-level governance.

These sessions will foster discussions on the significance of sustainability, governance, and social responsibility in business today.