#GivingTuesday: Outrider cares for our world, our communities

Outrider was born out of making the world a better, more sustainable place to live. It’s part of our DNA — not only on Giving Tuesday but every day. And, like so many, I joined Outrider because I share this purpose both globally and locally. As a company, we’re out to reduce global carbon dioxide emissions by 3.8 million metric tons using electric vehicles for our yard automation system. For me, it’s contributing at the local level to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver (BGCMD), including spearheading the annual holiday toy drive going on right now at Outrider.

BGCMD provides Denver youth — regardless of their circumstances — a place to go for support to achieve their greatest potential. The Boys & Girls Clubs resonated with me because of the role it played in my dad’s life. My dad lost his father at a young age and was often left alone while his mother worked. During this time, he found the support he needed at the Boys & Girls Clubs. His story inspired me to help our youth gain access to the opportunities that will improve their lives. For the past few years, I have been serving on the Associate Board for BGCMD.

My favorite volunteer activity at BGCMD is working with kids in the STEM room. Having a career in automation at Outrider, I know the importance of preparing our youth for the jobs of the future. From computer and digital arts programming to the annual “Battle of the Bots,” BGCMD provides youth with access to technology and education, opening the door for future STEM careers of their dreams.

In light of COVID-19, we had to change the way we raise awareness and contribute to BGCMD. Including how to run our holiday toy drive. Last year, my co-workers brought piles of toys into the office for the collection boxes, raising nearly $1,000 worth of donations. This year, the holiday toy drive went virtual since so many of us are working from home. We announced the toy drive via our All Hands video call, Slack, and email. We’ll use these same channels to provide updates and encourage participation. The main difference is employees will order online and have the toys shipped instead of bringing them to the office.

I’m humbled by the kindness from Outrider — whether it’s rallying behind the toy drive, or volunteering for a good cause like my colleague Philip Walton, Principal Software Engineer. He gives back to his community by volunteering with St. Vrain Habitat for Humanity.  As he shared his experience at an All Hands meeting earlier this year, his passion for the organization’s mission was evident and inspiring. It’s pretty awesome to work for a company and with people who care so deeply about improving our communities. 

This year, probably more than ever, the people of our communities are in need of help. Thanks to everyone who supports organizations and causes that work tirelessly to benefit our greater Colorado community. If you’re looking for a way to get involved, I encourage you to find an organization or a cause that resonates with you. Learn more about BGCMD and St. Vrain Habitat for Humanity.