Throughout December, StepStone hosted a series of Global Community Days giving employees around the world the opportunity to donate their time and energy to local charities. In all, more than 120 employees gave over 325 hours to charitable organizations focusing on a range of issues, including environmental causes, education programs, homeless aid, and military veterans outreach.

The Global Community Day was just the latest effort of our firm for which giving back to the community is a natural fit. With 18 offices worldwide, StepStone recognizes that it is in a strong position to effect positive change in the many cities that its employees call home. “We are quite fortunate to have a team that is so passionate about enriching their communities,” says Partner and co-COO, Jose Fernandez. “The Global Community Day allowed us to tap into that enthusiasm.”

We are proud all of our regions around the world contributed to their communities throughout the year.  In the Americas, our teams focused on causes such as beach cleanups, park restorations, elementary education, health organizations, and supported the VA Hospital and veterans; in Europe, our teams spent time with care home residents in the UK and in Dublin our teams supported the homeless; and in Asia, our Beijing office wanted to work with a local kindergarten classroom, while our Sydney office supported an organization that helps those with disabilities.  “We wanted people to choose organizations and causes they are passionate about, and it’s a sure-fire way to get people involved – a win-win,” stated Jennifer Dazzo, a director in StepStone’s La Jolla office and member of the firm’s Community Engagement Committee.

In addition to community engagement team activities listed below in 2018, StepStone encourages its employees to participate in philanthropic programs individually through paid Volunteer Time Off program, which allots paid time to volunteer efforts of the employee’s choosing.  The intention of this program is to create community engagement opportunities for StepStone employees that are meaningful, purposeful and helps those in need. At the same time, StepStone recognizes that participating in these activities will also enrich and inspire the lives of our employees and partners.

Global Community Day: Bowery Mission Toiletry Kits AssemblyGlobal Community Day: Cleveland VA Holiday PartyGlobal Community Day: La Jolla Beach Cleanup

During 2018 StepStone is proud to have worked with and supported many organizations for our Global Community Engagement program efforts, including: