Joe Clees knows that his planned gift will have an impact on the future programs, services, and research conducted by Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC).
“Joining SARRC’s Legacy Circle was consistent with my philanthropic intent for long-term support,” Joe says. “It is an opportunity to create a legacy after I’ve passed and to help continue SARRC’s powerful impact for the long term.”
In 2016, he furthered his impact with SARRC by becoming a board member.
“I was drawn to SARRC’s commitment to early diagnoses and support of individuals with autism,” Joe says.
A lawyer at Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. in Phoenix, he represents individuals and employers throughout the United States in discrimination and wrongful discharge cases and labor relations. He also counsels clients on a wide array of state, federal, and tribal compliance laws. Joe has been recognized by Chambers USA America’s Leading Lawyers as one of the top labor and employment law attorneys in the U.S. and as a Chambers USA Top Leader in his Field.
He was inspired to go into law by his grandmother, who was a legal secretary. Joe knew at a young age that becoming a lawyer would allow him to help others and fix their problems.
Clees has resided in Phoenix for over 30 years and lives with his son, Carter, who is a Brophy sophomore. They are both passionate about film and enjoy spending time pursuing film production and finance.
In addition to being an active leader in his firm and serving on Ogletree’s board of directors, Clees also serves as a board member and investor in film groups in Arizona and California, including the Arizona State University (ASU) Film Spark program.
He plans on staying active with SARRC leadership and continuing to assist wherever he can.
“Autism is a complex riddle, and there is so much that we don’t know. Contemplating the impact we can have today and in the future is essential,” Joe says.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a Legacy Circle member and ensuring the continued vitality and growth of SARRC’s services from one generation to the next, please contact Beth Salazar at [email protected] or 602-340-8717, ext. 1039.
