Baird Foundation Annual Report 2015 | Page 10

SPOTLIGHT ON GIVING Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast Ensuring that young girls are prepared for a positive future by developing strong leadership skills and confidence is a passion for DeVona Wright Cottrell, Associate General Counsel. That is why she decided to get involved with Girl Scouts. “I started to think differently about the world after I had a daughter,” DeVona said. “Girls need to understand how important their impact is on the world and Girls Scouts helps them to develop and realize the leadership skills necessary to do this.” Milwaukee, WI As a board member of the Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast since 2014, DeVona partnered with Baird Foundation to support an initiative to increase participation of African-American and Hispanic girls in Girl Scouts. “Every girl should be empowered to take the lead in their own life and make a difference in their community, regardless of their circumstances,” said DeVona. “Knowing that I’m supported in my efforts to improve my community means a lot. I’m always inspired when I leave a Girl Scout event or meeting, and I’m motivated by the impact we are having with Girl Scouts.” Run of Hope Seattle, WA More than 3,500 children will be diagnosed with a brain tumor this year, a startling fact that hits home for Cam Ragen, a Financial Advisor in Baird’s Seattle office. Since 2009, the Run of Hope has raised over $2 million to fund pediatric brain cancer research at Seattle Children’s Hospital, a cause that is very personal to Cam who has been involved with the run for years. “A good friend, who happens to also be a client, lost a child to pediatric brain cancer,” said Cam. “Being a part of this event is a way for us to support the family and make a difference for other families who are impacted by this disease.” The Baird Foundation along with Cam, the branch and its associates, contributed towards the 2015 Run of Hope. In addition, nearly 50 associates and their family members came together for the event. “Given Baird’s success, we are in a position to make an impact in our communities,” said Cam. “Having the power of Baird behind such an important cause means a lot to me, and I am proud of Baird’s wonderful show of support to a longtime client.” 8