IBEW Local 573 is again making Christmas brighter for children in need by donating 20 bikes to Trumbull County Children Services.
Union leadership made the delivery on December 16, and agency employees helped unload and wheel the bikes into the building.
“It’s hard not to feel for these kids. I couldn’t imagine growing up without something like this,” said Todd Ambrose, business manager, IBEW Local 573.
Local 573 cares for the community it serves
This tradition of spreading holiday cheer is something the membership is very proud of.
“We’ve always been a community-focused organization. This is one more way to give back, and it’s rewarding to know these bikes will make Christmas special for local families,” he said.
For Mark Phillips, IBEW Local 573 president/organizer, it’s more than just giving gifts.
“It’s about showing these kids and their families that someone cares. That’s why we keep doing it, and the bikes stay right here in our community.”
The process is also a true team effort. The membership works together to plan, order and assemble the bikes well ahead of the holidays.
“Apprentices play a key role in putting the bikes together, inflating the tires, things like that,” Phillips said.
Giving joy to those in need
Caseworkers will now make sure they get delivered in time for Christmas.
“For many families, bikes just aren’t in the budget. They’re focused on affording basic needs like food and diapers,” said Sarah Riley, case aide at Trumbull County Children Services. “This donation makes all the difference.”
Ambrose said the donation is worth about $2,500. However, knowing there are happy children at Christmas is priceless.
“We’re so grateful to Local 573. They’ve been doing this for years, and it brings so much joy to the families we serve,” Riley said.
Ambrose and Phillips remain committed to bringing smiles to children during the holidays for years to come.
NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.