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WBD Gives Back Month
November 24, 2021
This November, we continued our tradition of WBD Gives Back Month. As a firm, we recognize our duty to participate in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. We utilized the month of November to continue and instill these same values in all of our employees. Previously, WBD has participated in many in-person volunteer events in the DC-Metropolitan area, but due to the pandemic, many organizations are still not accepting in-person volunteers. However, we believe it is still important to be engaged corporate citizens in the community and give back where we can. To this end, we set up various weekly and month-long initiatives that provided our employees with an opportunity to give back in this remote environment.
The first initiative of the month provided an opportunity for employees to engage in a fun competition to raise money for a charity of their choice. Each week throughout the month employees were encouraged to participate in “Philanthropy Trivia”. The winner of each round had the chance to donate $100 to a charity or organization of significance to them. This was an opportunity for employees to contribute to a cause they care about and raise awareness throughout the firm.
While donations and philanthropy are a key aspect of giving back, volunteering time and energy to a cause is also a vital piece. As our second initiative of the month, we highlighted WBD employees who volunteer outside of work on our LinkedIn and Slack accounts. This allowed us to thank our WBD volunteers and encourage one another to give back. It also provided the featured employees a platform to share their experiences. Volunteering outside of work is extremely encouraged here at WBD.
As our last initiative this month, WBD rolled out a unique matching program. As a Veteran-Owned firm with over 10% of our employees having served our country, the firm wanted to emphasize our support of veteran-supporting organization by matching 100% of all recorded donations that WBD team members make to Operation Gratitude, Student Veterans of America, and Salvation Army’s Angel Tree. Operation Gratitude utilizes funding to assist the Military, Veterans, and first-responders. Donations can also be placed for care packages or COVID-19 relief. Donations to the Student Veterans of America goes towards supporting Veterans who are currently enrolled in higher education. This enables them to focus on their education and get involved with their institutions without baring a financial burden. The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree provides gifts for the holidays for children who might not receive one otherwise. These organizations were selected based off of employee recommendations and we received overwhelming support throughout the firm.
Even as WBD Gives Back Month ended, the strong mission-driven values of our employees continues in everything they do. Giving back year round is just as important to giving back during the holiday season. WBD is aiming provide its employees with in-person volunteering opportunities in the future. Until then, we will continue to be engaged community members and give back to those in need.