Our Environmental, Social and Governance Report
OUR SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENT
The DeWitt Company’s, commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance (ESG) drives this company. As a leader in the transportation industry, we recognize our unique role in reducing environmental impact, enhancing community well-being, and ensuring transparency and accountability across our operations. In this report, we outline our ongoing efforts to implement eco-friendly innovations, foster a diverse and inclusive workforce, and uphold the highest standards of governance. Through these initiatives, we strive not only to meet the evolving expectations of our stakeholders but also to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable and equitable future.
OUR PEOPLE
Employees first, is what the DeWitt Family of past and present are committed to.
As we grow, we are invested in watching our employees grow with us, whether at the office or their home office. Here at The DeWitt Companies, we want everyone to be excited to come to work and excited about what we stand for. The goal is for every employee to come to work daily knowing they are making a difference in our customers’ lives.
Employee well-being: DeWitt is committed to our employees’ health and safety. DeWitt pays a portion up to 95% of our employee’s medical, dental, and vision premiums depending on location. DeWitt also offers Supplemental insurance at a low cost for our employees (i.e., Life, Accident, Critical Illness, and Disability). DeWitt also offers FSA Medical, FSA Dependent Care, and a matching 401K Plan. In addition to providing various benefits, our employees have access to the “Special Offers Program.” This program includes but is not limited to discounts on fitness, wellness, glasses, smart technology, and more.
DeWitt has partnered with our healthcare provider and has launched an employee assistance program called “Resources for Living.” Not only is this service available to our employees, but members of their household including children up to the age of 26. The program gives our employees access to a wide variety of supportive services in areas such as relationship issues, substance abuse, financial issues, crises and disasters, mental well-being, and more.
SAFETY
Approved Freight Forwarders in the City of Industry has, as of October 2024, marked 9.5 years of accident-free operations. Our core value of safety means we take all the precautions to sure a safe workplace with no injuries reported.
In addition to being deeply committed to our employee’s health and well-being. DeWitt actively supports their desire for continuous learning and their dedication to furthering their education.
The DeWitt Companies ensures each employee has the skills required to do their current role and has available resources to develop the skills necessary as their careers progress. The DeWitt Companies has in place several options for employees continuing education. Employees not only complete their annual mandatory training based on the employee’s role within the company, but we also partner with the International Moving Association (IAM) “IAM Learning” program, Microsoft Office 365 training, and leadership courses within our Human Resources (HRIS) software.
Continuing education for our employees is not limited to classroom training. We have hands-on training as well.
Royal Academy of Movers and Packers (RAMP):
They have created this program for all new warehouse employees and packers. This program ensures our employees understand the importance of safety, lifting, and proper packing techniques (i.e., damage prevention and not wasteful use of packing materials).
The DeWitt Guam location has specific training dedicated to our drivers, to ensure safety on the roads and safety in the community.
Initial Driver’s Training:
All new drivers receive comprehensive initial training to ensure they are well-prepared and confident in their roles. This training covers all essential aspects of the job, including safety protocols, vehicle maintenance, and customer service skills.
Driver’s Refresher Course:
To maintain high standards of safety and efficiency, we provide regular refresher courses for our drivers. These courses help to update and reinforce critical skills, ensuring our drivers stay current with the latest industry practices and regulations.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
- Crew Chief: Drivers who demonstrate exceptional skills and leadership qualities can advance to the position of Crew Chief. In this role, they will lead teams and ensure the highest standards of service.
- Tractor Trailer Driver: For those looking to further expand their careers, there is an opportunity to move to our Trucking department as a Tractor Trailer Driver. This requires additional licensing and training. This position offers additional responsibilities and the chance to operate larger vehicles on more complex routes.
The DeWitt Guam location is proud to offer a comprehensive Apprenticeship Program as part of our commitment to continuing education for our employees. This program is designed to enhance employee skills and an asset in the workforce.
On-the-Job Training: The Apprenticeship Program combines firsthand experience with theoretical knowledge. Through guided, on-the-job training, the employee gains practical skills directly related to their trade.
Knowledge Theory: In addition to practical training, the program includes theoretical instruction. This blend of knowledge ensures a deep understanding of the trade and prepares our employees for various challenges in the workplace. This is where we partner with Guam Community College (GCC).
Comprehensive Skill Development:
- Trade Skills: Learn and master the technical skills required for the role.
- Interpersonal Skills: Develop effective communication and teamwork abilities, which are crucial in any work environment.
- Problem Solving: Enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to navigate complex situations.
- Leadership: Build leadership qualities that will prepare them for advanced roles and responsibilities within the organization.
Partnership with Guam Community College and Apprenticeship Program:
Our partnership with Guam Community College (GCC) through their Apprenticeship Program continues to thrive. Additionally, our Guam location has broadened its continuing education opportunities by partnering with Guam Trades Academy (GCA Trades Academy). These programs are available to all employees in Guam, whether hourly or salaried, providing access to a diverse range of classes such as project management, electrical work, welding, and more. This collaboration has enabled us to contribute to the development of skilled professionals in our community while benefiting from the fresh perspectives and energy that apprentices bring to our organization.
New Collaboration with the School of Business at the University of Guam:
In 2023, we expanded our educational partnerships by collaborating with the School of Business at the University of Guam (UOG) to offer HR students valuable real-world experience through internships
OUR COMMUNITY
The DeWitt Companies is a family-owned and operated business. As a fourth-generation family-oriented business, we want to give back to our community in as many ways possible, and not just during the holidays.
The DeWitt Companies:
- The San Diego location has donated throughout the years to The Boys and Girls Club, San Diego Food Bank, Girl Scouts of America, Susan G. Komen Foundation, Toys for Tots, Habitat for Humanity, Move for Hunger, and American Cancer Society.
- The DeWitt Guam location is proud to be an active and engaged member of our community through our “Move for A Cause” campaign. This initiative is designed to strengthen our ties with the community and contribute positively to various causes and events. Key activities and partnerships that illustrate our commitment are:
Operation Christmas Drop
We partner with this longstanding tradition to deliver supplies and gifts to remote islands in the Pacific, spreading joy and support during the holiday season. We are highlighted in a scene from the 2020 NETFLIX movie “Operation Christmas Drop.”
Wreaths Across America
We honor our veterans by participating in this meaningful event and placing wreaths on the graves of our fallen heroes to show our respect and gratitude.
Coastal Cleanup
Our team actively participates in coastal cleanup events to help protect and preserve our beautiful coastal environments. This effort demonstrates our commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
In addition, our executives serve on the boards and participate in committees of various civic and industry associations, including the American Trucking Association/Moving & Storage Conference (ATA/MSC), California Moving & Storage Association (CMSA), Guam Chamber of Commerce (GCC), Pan American International Movers Association (PAIMA), and International Association of Movers (IAM).
OUR IMPACT – SAFETY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
The DeWitt Company’s involvement in the transportation industry creates an opportunity to successfully manage its operations for the safety of the public and to minimize its negative impact on the environment.
The DeWitt Companies Corporate office leads the way in energy-saving approaches.
- Exclusively uses LED lighting.
- Motion detectors and automated controls throughout the building.
- Induction lighting has been installed in the parking lot.
- Controlling energy consumption with automated HVAC thermostats.
- Replaced outdated A/C units with new, energy-efficient models.
- Solar panels have been installed, and the building harnesses solar-generated energy to power operations.
EPA SmartWay Transport Partner
Approved Freight Forwarders, Approved Trucking, LLC, and DeWitt Move Worldwide, are partners with the SmartWay US EPA, to help the freight transportation sector improve supply chain efficiency. Approved Freight Forwarders City of Industry location uses Hyzon Hydrogen Powered Zero Emission Trucks for operations. The future is to lower our carbon footprint on the road.
The DeWitt Companies continues to reduce consumption by:
– Ensuring compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations
– Reducing paper use in the office by moving to paperless operations.
– Reducing waste by minimizing the amount of waste sent to landfills through reuse and various recycling programs.
- The Royal Hawaiian Office on Oahu takes their trash to H-POWER (Honolulu Program of Waste Energy Recovery) to reduce the volume of municipal solid waste on Oahu.
- The Guam office works with the local community and colleges to offer used wood for free.
– Reducing waste of one-time-use cups. We continue to provide employees with reusable water bottles.
OUR FUTURE
Our employees are our first customers; we will continue to Invest in our people. DeWitt will continue to focus on our corporation’s reasonability and sustainability in every aspect of our operations.
We engage with local public schools by participating in job fairs and providing students with valuable career information and opportunities. This helps to inspire and guide the next generation in their professional journeys.
We strive to go beyond our statutory obligations as a transportation company, care for our stakeholders, and minimize the impact on our environment.
We will continue to find new ways to lower our carbon footprint while finding more ways to keep giving back to our local communities.