Local 573 answers the call for more pedal power, delivering bikes for kids
IBEW Local 573 is making a bigger impact this holiday season after donating 26 new bikes to Trumbull County Children Services.
It’s the most ever since the membership started the tradition over a decade ago.
Union leadership, along with three apprentices, made the delivery on December 9 and helped the agency staff get the bikes into the building.
“We’re not just about what we do on the job,” said Todd Ambrose, business manager, IBEW Local 573. “It’s about being part of the community and lifting others up when they need it.”
Planning for the donation typically starts every October. Then, the membership purchases and assembles the bikes before taking them to the agency.
Wired for giving back
Fifth-year apprentices Wyatt Baer, Luke Culp and Sean Duckworth have been heavily involved with the effort. They’re officers on the Local 573 RENEW committee – an IBEW-wide initiative designed to bolster engagement and leadership among younger members.
“We’re showing these kids that somebody cares. It might not click with them right now, but could spark a deeper meaning down the road,” said Culp, vice president, Local 573 RENEW.
Mark Phillips, Local 573 president/organizer, said apprentices didn’t hesitate to help with the project.
“As soon as the opportunity came up, they jumped on board right away,” he said.
And because of the strong response, the assembly process was quick.
“We had about 15 people show up to build the bikes, so it only took us around an hour to get it done,” Culp said.
Powered by compassion
According to Phillips, the donation is worth more than $3,500, but there’s no price tag on the difference it will make.
“It’s our biggest year yet. The need is growing, and we hate the thought of a kid going without at Christmas.”
That message resonated with Duckworth. He’s the Local 573 RENEW committee secretary.
“I didn’t have much growing up, so being able to give a bike to a kid who might not otherwise get one, that means everything,” he said.
Baer serves as the RENEW committee treasurer. For him, it’s not just about giving back, it’s the future connections that could be made because of the generosity.
“One of these kids might remember getting a bike and decide to become an electrician because someone cared about them,” he said.
An energizing effect
Trumbull County Children Services will make arrangements with families to get the bikes delivered in time for Christmas.
The agency is grateful for the continuous support it receives all year – and especially during the holiday season.
“Every year, the donations go up,” said Allesha Ciminero, community liaison and recruitment specialist, Trumbull County Children Services. “The community really comes through, and it helps us reach more kids.”
She emphasized that every little bit adds up – building trust and bringing light in the darkest times.
“IBEW Local 573 is an incredible partner and steps up every year. It makes a real impact.”
The apprentices value their career in the electrical industry and serving a greater purpose.
“If the community is strong, it strengthens our membership, too. We’re proud to be part of both,” Culp said.
NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.
