Project Open Hand is pleased to highlight FedEx through our Corporate Spotlight.

The history of FedEx. In 1965, Yale University undergraduate Frederick W. Smith wrote a term paper about the passenger route systems used by most airfreight shippers, which he viewed as economically inadequate. Smith wrote of the need for shippers to have a system designed specifically for airfreight that could accommodate time-sensitive shipments such as medicines, computer parts, and electronics.

Thus the idea for FedEx was born. The company was officially incorporated in 1971. Through a series of innovations and the ceaseless effort of its dedicated employees and contractors, FedEx has helped change what's possible for people around the world. The combination of companies like FedEx offering rapid movement of goods around the world, and the information power of the internet has changed the way the world economy works, providing more opportunities for businesses both small and large, as well as consumers worldwide.

FedEx's Charitable Giving. FedEx, named one of "America's Best Charity Minded Corporations" on "America's 100 Best" list by Reader's Digest, gives back to the community through corporate philanthropy, donated delivery services, and employee volunteerism.

FedEx's philanthropy is focused on four main giving areas: emergency and disaster relief, pedestrian and child safety, education, and health and human services. FedEx is also an industry leader in helping to protect the environment.

FedEx and the Greening of Project Open Hand. Project Open Hand prepares and delivers more than 2,500 meals every day, which means the rising fuel costs are having an impact on operating costs. Recently, we began a "green solutions" campaign to update our fleet of delivery vans with more fuel-efficient vehicles. Our large cargo vans average 7 years in age, and get 9 miles to the gallon. They can be difficult to park in urban areas, and are bigger than actually required for most of our meal deliveries to clients' homes.

After a great deal of research, Project Open Hand decided that the Scion Xb was the best choice for our new, green fleet, as it's both low-emissions and fuel-efficient. The Scion gets 31 miles to the gallon, is compact enough for urban parking, and is affordable. In fact, a fleet of Scions will save us 70% over the next five years in fuel and maintenance costs compared to our current vehicles.

We are proud to report that FedEx led the way in championing our new fleet with a $14,000 grant for a brand-new Scion Xb, the first in our fleet. Our new Scion, which was specially outfitted with a "hot box" that carries and keeps hot 96 meals, was unveiled on May 9th. Team members from FedEx, and staff, board, and volunteers of Project Open Hand were eager to see the new Scion take off on its maiden voyage.

The new Project Open Hand Scion Xb, waiting to be unveiled.	Keith Dickinson of FedEx, Project Open Hand Board Member Barb Rand, and Executive Director Tom Nolan.
Project Open Hand's brand-new Scion Xb, the first vehicle in our new "Green Solutions" delivery fleet.	Manager of Distribution Greg Kim shows off the custom "hot box," which can transport 96 meals at a time.