We surprise the founder of Rad Adventures, who is changing the lives of youth through free camps

Laura Gallagher has continually given back to her community by providing children with unforgettable summer camp experiences through her business Rad Adventures.

Each year, Laura sponsors children offering them the opportunity to attend camp at no cost, believing every kid should have a bike and every kid should be able to afford camp. 

In addition to running Rad Adventures, Laura has dedicated her career to working in the not-for-profit sector and is currently involved with Ontario Track 3, an organization that teaches children and youth with disabilities to downhill ski and snowboard.

Inspired by Laura's generosity and tireless spirit, her friend nominated her for a CollingwoodToday Random Act of Kindness.

"Laura always puts the needs of others before her own and she does so selflessly," said her nominator. "She's been dealing with a lot lately and she really deserves this act of kindness. I hope it brings her some hope and encouragement to keep pushing forward, no matter what."

We decided to celebrate Laura’s giving nature by surprising her with a Random Act of Kindness, arriving with gifts from our generous community partners. 

Gifts included gift certificates to local businesses and a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers.

Laura was both touched and taken aback by the gesture.

"Well, I was surprised! I was humbled. It was lovely and it made my weekend," Laura shared with a smile. 

Reflecting on her years of service to the community she added, "I’ve been in the community for years working on children’s programming. I’ve sponsored eleven families this year alone.” 

When asked about her plans for the future she shared, "I'm very excited to share that Rad Adventures is getting its charity status. We’re just waiting.”

Laura went on to express the importance of volunteerism. 

“People often overlook how much of an impact small gestures can have on a community,” she added. “I was raised to give back and it’s something I’ve instilled in my children, too. Helping others is something that doesn’t stop with one generation, it's a value we pass on.”

“Communities are what they are because we give back," shared Laura. 

A big thank you to our co-sponsors Collingwood Flowers, Theatre Collingwood, Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain and Fig & Feta for making this Random Act of Kindness possible.

If you know someone in the community who deserves recognition for their selfless actions, positivity in the face of hardship, or just for being a great person, you can nominate them for a Random Act of Kindness. Fill out our nomination form today!

If you would like to support our Random Acts of Kindness program, please email [email protected].

CollingwoodToday is proud to make a difference in our community by highlighting extraordinary individuals and organizations with our Random Acts of Kindness, a foundational piece of our CollingwoodToday Cares program. 

The CollingwoodToday Cares team's mission is to create meaningful change in Collingwood- and inspire others to do the same.