Colleagues, Family, and Friends,

One of the elements that has brought me the most joy in my role is giving back to the communities where we work and live.

I have had the honor of being the Co-Champion of Wabtec’s Bids for Kids event for the last several years for three great charities (Make A Wish, Shriners Hospital, and Boys and Girls Club…more information below) and on the board of directors for Make A Wish for the last 2 years).   These great organizations make such an impact to the life of the children they touch.

Since its inception, Bids for Kids has raised over $2M for these great charities.

The past year has been tough on everyone and especially these organization as typical fund-raising events had to be cancelled due to Covid.

Although typically our Bids for Kids event is a live auction event, this year will be virtual.

I ask you all consider either participating in the event by buy a ticket (since virtual, anyone can attend) or simply donating to this great cause.

And remember its for the KIDS!!!

Thanks so much,

-Greg

Bids for Kids Mission—Bids for Kids is a charitable, volunteer based organization that is committed to enriching the lives of children in the greater Erie area. Our aim is to raise awareness and funds for Make-A-Wish, Shriners Hospitals for Children, and the Erie Boys & Girls Club through benefit events available to all demographics in Erie. All proceeds raised by our volunteers go directly to the local children’s organizations to promote health, well-being, and education while inspiring Erie area youth to fulfill their dreams.

The Boys & Girls Club of Erie is a non-profit guidance and youth development agency founded in 1895.  Through guidance and youth development programs and activities, the Boys & Girls Club of Erie inspires and enables young people to achieve their full potential as knowledgeable, caring, contributing citizens.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania and Southern West Virginia grants the wishes of children living with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. From the donations collected by Make-A-Wish, the entire family of the Wish Kid has the opportunity to experience the magic at no cost.

Shriners Hospitals for Children has a mission to:

· Provide the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries and other special healthcare needs within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment.

· Provide for the education of physicians and other healthcare professionals.

· Conduct research to discover new knowledge that improves the quality of care and quality of life of children and families.

This mission is carried out without regard to race, color, creed, sex or sect, disability, national origin or ability of a patient or family to pay.

Platinum

Gold

Silver

Bronze

Copper