Bates White marks a year of impact with $280,000 donated and 37 community initiatives
In 2025, Bates White and its employees collectively donated more than $280,000. Over the course of the year, employees organized 37 fundraising and volunteer initiatives through the Bates White Community Connection (BWCC) program that benefited 29 nonprofit organizations. Eighty‑five employees helped plan and lead these efforts, continuing the firm’s strong tradition of employee‑driven community engagement.
Throughout the year, the BWCC program supported a wide range of organizations and causes. City Blossoms received both volunteer support and contributions generated through the firm’s “Minutes in Motion” challenge, with employees logging 117,703 minutes of exercise to drive donations. Employees also joined Rock Creek Conservancy to remove invasive species throughout the park and partnered with Washington English Center for a in‑office trivia fundraising lunch.
Several initiatives encouraged employees to get active for a cause. Teams participated in walk/run events supporting Lawyers Have Heart, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Whitman-Walker. The firm also continued its long‑standing support for Bread for the City through a clothing drive, an “I Spy” fundraising activity, and volunteer efforts packing food for the organization’s Holiday Helpings program.
Support for youth‑focused organizations remained a central theme in 2025. Employees hosted Wordle and crossword competitions and fielded a soccer team to benefit DC SCORES. For Higher Achievement, staff organized a “BW Madness” tournament and a “Throwdown” cooking competition, two well‑established events that raise funds while building community across the firm.
Scott Weishaar, Managing Partner at Bates White, highlighted the importance of this year’s achievements, stating, “Employee leadership is at the heart of our philanthropic efforts. Our colleagues consistently bring creativity, energy, and compassion to the BWCC program—identifying organizations they care about and designing initiatives that have meaningful impact. The firm is proud to support these efforts, and we’re inspired each year by the generosity and commitment of our employees.”
Learn more about the BWCC program here.
