Logistics community gives back in time of need

The logistics industry's commitment to community service was much in evidence following Hurricane Sandy. Numerous companies responded with cash and/or in-kind services, many of them signing on through the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN). Among the many companies pitching in to help were Canadian Pacific Railroad, Con-Way Inc., DHL Express, FedEx Corp., Infor, Norfolk Southern, RIM Logistics Ltd., and UPS, to name just a few.

In other news around the country, 50 volunteers from Bastian Solutions' corporate office in Indianapolis volunteered at a local elementary school, raking leaves, building a stage, building a playground structure, and putting together learning packets for students. The material handling systems integrator also arranged a visit from former pro football player Tarik Glenn.

Union Pacific has made a $60,000 donation to the Wounded Warrior Project, a national organization for service members who incurred service-connected injuries or illnesses on or after Sept. 11, 2001, and their families. Approximately 23 percent of Union Pacific's 2012 new hires—nearly 800 in total—are military veterans.

Cat Lift Trucks dealer Ring Power Lift Trucks donated the use of a 5,000-pound-capacity cushion-tire forklift to Columbia High School's Global Logistics Academy in Lake City, Fla. Students will receive hands-on instruction by using the truck in the school's warehouse. Outside groups will also use the truck to become forklift-certified, providing additional income for the school's program.