Baird Foundation Annual Report 2017: Imagine Partnering for a Brighter Future. | Page 8

PARTNERING TOGETHER TO MAKE AN IMPACT Some of the firm’s greatest community partnerships have come from the work of Baird’s Associate Resource Groups (ARGs). In addition to providing opportunities to network and enhance personal and professional growth, our ARGs provide associates with a stronger sense of community – both inside and outside of Baird. Ascend seeks to expand leadership opportunities for females at Baird in support of the firm’s goal of becoming the employer of choice for women. In 2017, this group hosted the “Women at Baird” event with more than 600 associates who were encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and break the mold. Baird Gives Back demonstrates what it means to lend a helping hand. This group hosts a global week of caring that includes nearly 1,700 associates and family members donating 6,000 hours to over 130 nonprofit organizations. ECO improves sustainability practices at work, at home and in the community. In addition to hosting regular clean-up activities, this group sponsored an Earth Day event that offered insight into going green and growing local. PATRIOT supports members of the U.S. military, veterans and their families. Members partnered with Milwaukee firms to organize a Veteran Job Camp to provide opportunities for networking, editing resumes, conducting mock interviews and more. Prism represents multicultural diversity across the firm. One of the signature events for this group is the Dragon Boat Festival, which unites a variety of cultures and traditions in a fun and competitive atmosphere. PULSE engages next-gen millennials. In addition to hosting regular volunteer events, PULSE partnered with PATRIOT and Ascend members to help wrap donated gifts in support of Toys for Tots and children at other local charities. Spectrum provides Baird’s LGBT+ associates and their advocates with a network of peers and mentors. In 2017, this group raised nearly $9,000 in support of AIDS Walk Wisconsin, which provides HIV prevention, treatment and other services for those living with the disease. ECO 6 PULSE