Concordia Journal Home > Archives > May 21, 2009 issue >

Human Resources peddles, and pedals, for kids 

Above, Tania Nesterow-Boyer (left) reads the ingredients of a baked offering while Ida Giannelli looks on. Human Resources staff peddled baked goods in the GM lobby on May 7 in support of the Montreal Children’s Hospital. The initiative was part of a larger annual fundraising campaign held by the hospital’s foundation called Pedal for Kids. The campaign sees teams of employees raise funds for the hospital. HR’s goal is $700 per team member, or $14 700 (above the $10 000 expected for first-year teams).

On June 9 at 3 p.m., the HR team will ride the Mighty Bike, a custom-made bicycle built for 30 people, throughout the streets of Montreal. The hour-long ride involves a massive sound system, cheering bystanders and a police escort. Beginning at Roddick Gates of McGill, the Mighty Bike will pass Concordia along De Maisonneuve Blvd., continue to Atwater Ave., where they’ll turn around and return to Roddick Gates along Ste. Catherine St.

Giannelli, team captain, had been looking for a way to give back to the community. She had seen the Mighty Bikes driving past Concordia and wondered what the noisy vehicles were doing. When she found out, she was driven to participate and to put together a team of fundraisers.

She felt the Children’s Hospital was a good choice of charity to support: “It's got a special place in everybody’s heart.” When Giannelli contacted the organizers, she was told she would be starting the first group from Concordia.

The bake sale raised close to $500. See the website to donate and get more details on the event. Tax receipts are offered for donations over $15.