Hachette Book Group held its first community service day on April 18. Close to 600 HBG employees from across its eight locations took part in the event, which was organized by Ashley Orlando of the publisher’s human resources department. To involve as many causes as possible, HBG partnered with 42 organizations. HBG employees volunteered at Bottomless Closets, City Meals on Wheels, GallopNYC, the Ronald McDonald House, the Salvation Amy, the United Way, and elsewhere, including at organizations that support children, the welfare of animals, senior citizens, and reading initiatives.

“Hosting a dedicated day for Hachette Book Group employees to volunteer together, to step outside of our day-to-day and help others, has long been a dream of mine,” said CEO Michael Pietsch. “I’m thrilled that it came together so brilliantly.” He added that “it was a great way to connect with our colleagues in new ways.”