Special to The Texas Catholic
In a display of community partnership, Catholic Charities Dallas joined forces with the University of Dallas, Bank of America, and Pro Players Foundation to host a heartwarming event that provided 100 bicycles to local families.
On October 22, volunteers from Bank of America and students from the University of Dallas, in collaboration with Pro Players Foundation, assembled 100 brand-new bikes, funded by the Gupta College of Business with support from Bank of America, covering the cost of the bike kits and helmets.
“This was more than just a giveaway. It was a celebration of community, generosity, and shared purpose,” Dave Woodyard, president and CEO of Catholic Charities Dallas, said. “We’re grateful to our partners for making this joyful moment possible for so many families.”
According to Woodyard, the donated bicycles were for children under five, and each child also received a helmet to ride safely.
“One little girl even received her bike on her birthday, making the gift all the more magical,” Woodyard said.
Oscar Carranza, director of corporate relations and partnerships with the University of Dallas, said the partnership exemplified the University of Dallas Gupta College of Business’ commitment to community service, ethical leadership, and social responsibility.
“It transforms the college’s belief that business is a vocation of service into meaningful action, strengthening UD’s role as both an academic and community partner while enabling students and faculty to make a lasting social impact,” Carranza said, adding that the collaboration brings the Gupta College of Business mission to life, allowing students to practice ethical leadership and service while bringing joy and hope to families in need. “Through our annual Big Bike Build, we hope this collaboration will leave lasting impressions on students who learn to lead with compassion and purpose, and on children and families who experience the support, connection, and opportunities that the wider community can provide.”
Jennifer Chandler, president of Bank of America Dallas, called the opportunity to see Bank of America volunteers working side by side with UD students to bring joy to families inspiring.
“This kind of collaboration reflects the heart of our mission to make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve,” she said.
Brooklyn Layton, COO of Pro Players Foundation, whose long-standing relationship with the Gupta College of Business at the University of Dallas extends over 12 years, praised the collaborative project and its impact.
“We believe every child deserves the chance to ride a bike and feel the freedom and joy it brings,” Layton said. “Partnering with Catholic Charities Dallas and these incredible volunteers made that vision a reality.”
For more information about upcoming events or how to get involved, visit ccdallas.org, ppf.ngo, or about.bankofamerica.com/en.
