The legal powerhouse has been a Southern institution—and a major proponent of corporate philanthropy—since James F. Baker first hung out his shingle in 1888. Attorneys and staff regularly raise funds for both local and national causes, and are even allocated working “on-the-clock” hours to volunteer.
The firm’s Jackson office, which opened in 1995, embraces Baker Donelson’s corporate philanthropy whole-heartedly.
“It’s just what we do,” says Scott Pedigo, the firm’s managing shareholder. “We encourage our partners and staff to give back to their community.”
Not long ago, Scott and his colleagues faced a big decision: Whether to remain in the heart of Jackson or relocate outside the city. Fortunately, they decided to stay, and the firm became the lead tenants in a new mixed-use development just down the road from UMMC.
To celebrate their new offices and continued commitment to the city of Jackson, the firm had an open house. But being Baker Donelson, it was more than just a party: It was also a fundraiser.
And the recipient was the Manning Family Fund, with the donations to be used for children’s medical care.
“It was an easy choice,” says Scott. “We chose an organization that we felt a good number of folks would be inspired to give to, and that a lot of us have connections to. Several of the partners have had twins delivered there, and some of our children have received specialty care.”
Scott explained that the firm also wanted to support an organization that is important to both the city and the state. “The university is unquestionably one of the most important economic drivers in the region,” he says.
Counting the shareholders who already donate to UMMC and Children’s of Mississippi on a regular basis, the fundraising event had 100 percent participation. All 75 of the firm’s lawyers contributed, and Baker Donelson matched their donations.
“Giving to your community is the right thing to do,” Scott says. “And it’s something we’ve always done, so it doesn’t feel out of the ordinary.”
James F. Baker would be proud.
Scott encourages other businesses to be open to philanthropic opportunities. Especially when it comes to UMMC, an organization that he feels Mississippians can be proud of.
“There are a lot of great charitable organizations here, but there’s really none better than UMMC and the Manning Family Fund,” he says. “Your money and your time will be well spent.”
Thank you, attorneys and staff at Baker Donelson, from the Manning Family Fund and UMMC.