Executive Director Seth Greenberg and his team at the Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena were challenged by VenuWorks in a corporate-wide, five-week steps challenge called “VenuWalks.” The five-member team named themselves “Less Talky, More Walky” and included Greenberg, Brittany Chatham (PCC Concessions), Loredana Cretu (PCC Finance Director), Michelle Pirkle (PCC Banquet & Event Manager), and Rebekah Byrd (PCC Chef).
“I initially wanted to participate simply because I like to exercise, and I’m pretty competitive,” said Greenberg. “After the first week (of the five-week challenge), we were in third place, and I think that’s when we all realized we could actually win. We started encouraging and pushing one another, and it was a blast. Plus, none of us wanted to be chirped by our team captain, Loredana (Cretu), if we had an off day.”
The encouragement among team members paid off because Less Talky, More Walky won the challenge and were awarded $1,500. The team donated their winnings to Hand In Paw, a Birmingham-based non-profit that trains animals and owners to work in therapeutic settings, such as hospitals, schools, and assisted living facilities. The Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena group presented the $1,500 check to Hand In Paw on Wednesday, March 20. Greenberg stated, “They (Hand In Paw) were absolutely thrilled to receive it and wanted me to pass along their thanks to VenuWorks for sponsoring the event.” He added the non-profit was the perfect fit for the Pelham team. “We all love animals and wanted to find a local organization to be our charity of choice. Hand In Paw provides a special service at no cost to people who can use the pick-me-up therapy dogs provide. Knowing that our donation is going to such a good cause made winning all the better.”
Pelham Civic Complex chef and team member Rebekah Byrd said she loved being part of the competition. “I participated because I enjoy a friendly competition that keeps me moving. I knew it would be fun to do alongside my coworkers. The fact that we all participated together as a group and had fun doing it was enough for me, but when we found out we won, it was the icing on the cake! I would love to do this challenge again in the future.”
Byrd may have her chance to participate again. The Less Talky, More Walky team said they look forward to defending their title against their colleagues at VenuWorks facilities nationwide next year.
The above photo features (L to R) Brittany Chatham, Caroline Bundy, Hand In Paw Development Director, Brittany Filby, Hand In Paw Director of Communications, Loredana Cretu, “Chester,” the Ambassador Dog, Seth Greenberg, Michelle Pirkle, and Rebekah Byrd.