AAA Escalera Group Fuels Community Impact
At the core of AAA’s values is the belief in giving back to the communities they serve. Through their Community Impact Program, every employee is granted 8 hours of paid volunteer time each year. Thanks to Escalera, AAA’s employee-led Latinx business resource group (BRG), they’ve channeled that spirit of service into meaningful action with Share Ourselves.
Escalera’s partnership with Share Ourselves is a shining example of what happens when corporate responsibility meets grassroots compassion. “At the end of the day, you walk away feeling happy and grateful that you were able to help someone,” shared Ruby, Escalera’s former group leader who now proudly serves as the group’s charity ambassador.
A Hands-On Approach to Giving
Escalera’s impact has been felt across nearly every major Share Ourselves program. From packing food pantry bags to supporting Back to School and holiday initiatives, their volunteers are known for their energy and speed.
“We go, we’re motivated, we do it, and then we’re like, ‘What else is there?’” Ruby laughed. “We’ve separated diapers, packed lunches, sorted hygiene kits—you name it. We just want to help however we can.”
One of Ruby’s favorite memories came during the Back to School supply drive. “We started with $50 on Thursday, and by Friday we had raised $600. My husband and I were pushing shopping carts overflowing with supplies. It was hard work but joyful work.”
That spirit of service has extended to donating clothing, hygiene items, and even small essentials from home, like hotel toiletries. And when it comes to major programs like Adopt A Family and Thanksgiving Food Distribution, Escalera is always ready to pitch in.
Giving That Goes Further
Beyond volunteer hours, Escalera has also provided generous financial support, contributing $10,000 in both 2024 and 2025 to help fund critical services for vulnerable families in Orange County. These donations, made on behalf of AAA through Escalera’s giving program, demonstrate how business resource groups can be powerful vehicles for corporate impact.
“The Auto Club gives each employee designated hours a year to volunteer,” Ruby explained. “But through Escalera, we also receive funds to donate to causes close to our hearts. When I saw how Share Ourselves serves the Latinx community, I knew it was a perfect fit.”
Escalera’s philosophy is rooted in personal connection. As Ruby described, their focus on serving the Latinx community makes volunteering more meaningful for their members.
“When it’s for your community, your people, it makes it easier to step in. That’s what’s so special about our BRGs. They give us a reason to care personally.”
Partners in Purpose
To Ruby and the entire AAA Escalera team: thank you! Your generosity, dedication, and leadership make a lasting impact, not only on Share Ourselves, but on the thousands of individuals and families we serve.
Interested in getting your organization involved? Reach out to us to learn how your company can make a difference through group volunteering, sponsorships, or community partnerships by sending an email to philanthropy@shareourselves.org.