At VIF, we have always been passionate about collaborating with the community. Our social mission reflects our belief that all students should have access to a high-quality education that provides a 21^st century skill set needed to be successful in a global economy. With our new status as a Certified B Corporation, we have proven our commitment to using the power of business to be socially and environmentally responsible.

As one of only 17 North Carolina companies to earn this distinction, we are excited to join the ranks of more than 400 total corporations from more than 50 industries in obtaining its Certified B Corporation status.

VIF underwent evaluations to determine if we met social performance standards as a Certified B Corporation. Not only did VIF meet these standards, but we were also lauded with “Area of Excellence” scores in the consumer and accountability categories. This new certification demonstrates our efforts to create economic opportunity, help preserve a healthy environment and create strong communities.

What does B Corporation Certification mean for VIF? To maintain its status as a newly certified member, VIF will be required to consider its impact on employees, suppliers, community, consumers and the environment. VIF already has a history of positive social impact. For the past 20 years, VIF has focused on providing 21^st century skill development to students in Title I schools, giving them both the language and global literacy skills needed for a competitive edge in today’s global labor market. For our teachers, we provide comprehensive benefits and stakeholder transparency.

B Corporations also pride themselves on the transparency that demonstrates their role as a good company rather than good marketing. We believe that VIF’s mission reflects the B Corporation tenet that a company should pursue what is good for society, not just for its shareholders.