In December of 2009, HAP’s Professional Youth Mentor went in search of businesses that would talk to HAP’s YouthLEAD group about the career paths within their company. He was fortunate to come in contact with Best Buy’s Senior Human Resources Capabilities Analyst, a member of their Asian Employee Network, who was eager to help out. She organized a tour of the Best Buy Corporate Center and invited other Best Buy employees to talk with HAP’s youth. Professionals in the fields of marketing, branding, analysis, accounting, auditing, administration, customer services, and the “Geek Squad” all shared insights about their jobs and answered questions for the youth. 

The visit to Best Buy’s Corporate Center broadened the youth participants’ understanding of the corporate sector and opened their eyes to new ideas.  The group experienced the multiple levels of product development and strategy that go into a product before it ever makes its way to the stores, and many participants were surprised to learn that career options at Best Buy are not limited to sales and customer service. As a result of the visit, participants began to imagine how their skills and career interests could lead to a job at Best Buy, and they were filled with ideas and questions about the education and training required to prepare them for these exciting careers.

Best Buy’s Asian Employee Network has continued to seek out opportunities to partner with and support HAP. During the 2010 Hmong American New Year celebration, Best Buy shared their booth with HAP. They also recently donated six new computers to HAP and sent their “Geek Squad” to install the computers at HAP’s site. 

Best Buy is a multi-national retailer with a commitment to growth and innovation. HAP has experienced first-hand that the company also demonstrates a strong commitment to community partnership. In fiscal year 2010, Best Buy donated a combined $25.2 million to improve the vitality of the communities where its employees and customers live and work.