Core Insights - Whirlpool Foundation and The Washing Machine Project received the gold award for Best Employee Engagement Initiative at the 2025 Engage for Good Halo Awards [1][2][6] - The initiative involved Whirlpool employees assembling manual washing machines and participating in "Washout" experiences to understand the challenges of handwashing clothes [3][4][5] Company Overview - Whirlpool Corporation is a leading home appliance manufacturer, reporting approximately $17 billion in annual sales in 2024, with nearly 90% of sales in the Americas [7] - The company employs around 44,000 individuals and operates 40 manufacturing and technology research centers [7] Initiative Details - The employee engagement program aimed to raise awareness about the global washing divide, where 60% of the world's population relies on handwashing due to lack of access to reliable electricity and water [4] - In 2024, over 300 Whirlpool employees assembled 375 manual washing machines for distribution to underserved communities in India, Mexico, Republic of Congo, and Ghana [5][6] Impact and Recognition - The program is designed to alleviate the burden of handwashing clothes, particularly impacting women and girls in underserved communities [4][6] - The Halo Awards recognize outstanding corporate and nonprofit partnerships, with Whirlpool's initiative being highlighted among other notable nominees [6]

Core Insights - Oracle has introduced new employee communications and event management capabilities within the Oracle ME employee experience platform, enhancing engagement, productivity, and company culture [1][2] HR Teams Capabilities - HR teams can manage comprehensive event management to create and promote events that align with company initiatives, such as onboarding and open enrollment [3] - Flexible targeting tools allow HR teams to engage the right employees at the right time through preferred communication methods [3] - Real-time event analytics provide insights to improve event promotion and increase participation [3] Managers Capabilities - Managers can create and promote team events that support key initiatives like training and team building [3] - Personalized communication tools enable managers to send tailored messages to encourage specific actions among team members [3] - Data-driven analytics help managers view insights on team member participation for better coaching and career development [3] Employees Capabilities - Employees can utilize self-service event management to create grassroots events that promote learning and community [3] - Communication tools allow employees to share events and create newsletters to strengthen company culture [3] - A unified communications hub provides access to all communications, making it easier for employees to engage with relevant activities [3] Technology Integration - The integration of AI capabilities allows HR teams to analyze workforce data, generate content, and automate processes, improving overall business operations [4]