KELLY GALLAGHER
Team, Character and Bike Building
“It was wonderful to see how happy and grateful the kids were at the end of the day.”
Kelly Gallagher and her colleagues at Northwestern Mutual, including her father Edward Gallagher, were looking for a team-building volunteer activity to do together. Edward, a United Way supporter who is passionate about helping local children and youth, learned about the organization’s annual Build-A-Bike event and thought it would be the perfect opportunity for his team to give back in a meaningful way.
“Putting the bike together was easy, and it was a great experience,” Kelly explained. “The kids got to be hands-on and actually build their very own bike. I think that gave them a sense of pride.”
Toward the end of the event, participating kids took their new bikes for a spin through an obstacle course set up at Heinz Field. Kelly and her team described this as one of their favorite parts of the day.
“A lot of the kids do not come from the best neighborhoods. This just meant the world to them. Just seeing their faces light up was the best part,” Kelly remarked.
Kelly and her team plan to participate at this year’s Build-A-Bike, as well. She encourages other local professionals to do the same.
“Just do it! You’ll make a big impact in just one afternoon,” Kelly said.
