Celebrating Giving Tuesday: Aegon Transamerica Foundation Reflects on a Year of Giving Back

On this Giving Tuesday, the Aegon Transamerica Foundation celebrates the spirit of generosity that has defined its mission for over 30 years. The Foundation also honors the dedication of Aegon and Transamerica employees, whose ongoing commitment to giving back strengthens the communities where they live and work.

The Aegon Transamerica Foundation is an independent nonprofit dedicated to advancing community well-being through charitable giving. By investing in initiatives that empower individuals and families, the Foundation helps build resilient communities and creates pathways for brighter futures.

The Foundation's philanthropic efforts continue to make a lasting impact—from providing scholarships to first-generation college students, to offering disaster relief, to improving children's health. By the end of the year, the Foundation will have contributed more than $7 million to local initiatives across the U.S. Here are some highlights from 2024:

Building Pathways to Success

Supporting educational opportunities has been a pillar of the Foundation’s work this year. The Foundation is dedicated to increasing access to higher education, particularly for first-generation students, and nurturing talent in specialized fields like actuarial science.

A shining example of this commitment is the Foundation’s partnership with the University of Northern Iowa. Through a two-year grant, the Foundation supports the Educational Talent Search (ETS) program in Cedar Rapids, providing critical academic and financial support to students. By 2026, this partnership is expected to help 500 students graduate high school and successfully pursue higher education.

The Foundation also made a significant contribution to establish a new scholarship program for aspiring actuaries at Morgan State University, the only Historically Black College or University (HBCU) offering a bachelor's degree in actuarial science. The scholarships are awarded based on students' performance on professional actuarial exams, providing a unique incentive that will help bolster diversity within the profession.

In addition, the Foundation continued its longstanding partnership with Junior Achievement, sponsoring financial literacy programs for middle and high school students in Denver, Baltimore, and Cedar Rapids. These programs teach essential skills like budgeting, investing, and financial planning, empowering students to make informed financial decisions and succeed in the future.

Lending a Hand When It’s Needed Most

The Foundation’s commitment to giving extends to disaster relief efforts. After Hurricanes Helene and Milton ravaged parts of the Southeast, the Foundation partnered with Direct Relief and the American Red Cross to provide essential recovery assistance to communities in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina.

In response to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March, the Foundation supported the North Point-Edgemere Volunteer Fire Department in Baltimore with a $100,000 seed grant to launch a fundraising campaign for an all-hazard fire rescue vessel. This grant will help to strengthen emergency response capabilities in the Upper Chesapeake Bay region.

Advancing Wellness for Children and Families

The Foundation remains dedicated to improving health and wellness, especially for children and families in need. In 2024, it continued its support of Hope & Heroes, an organization providing critical care to children with cancer and blood disorders in the New York tri-state area.

The Foundation also maintained its steadfast support for March of Dimes, serving as the presenting sponsor for the Signature Chefs Auction in Washington, D.C. This event raises funds to prevent premature births and improve maternal and infant health. With nearly half a million babies born prematurely each year, the Foundation’s support plays a vital role in advancing research, advocacy, and programs that have a life-saving impact on mothers and babies.

A Culture of Giving Back

Throughout 2024, Aegon and Transamerica employees have actively demonstrated their commitment to giving back. With support from the Foundation’s local advisory committees, employees volunteered thousands of hours across the country—engaging in activities such as teaching financial literacy, packing meals for children, and supporting veterans. These efforts reflect the deep commitment of employees to being a force for good in their communities.

The Foundation’s matching gift program also amplifies the charitable impact of employee donations. This program allows employees to double their contributions to eligible organizations, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of their charitable efforts.

Looking Ahead

Giving Tuesday serves as an important reminder of the power of generosity. As the Foundation looks forward to another year, it remains committed to building a future where everyone can thrive. With the help of Aegon and Transamerica employees and the nonprofit organizations it supports, the Aegon Transamerica Foundation is proud to do its part—one act of giving at a time.