Pursue Your Passion

By Tara McGrath
Senior Assurance Associate
Baltimore, MD

In early 2013, Baltimore’s Culture Club announced a new initiative: “B-More at McGladrey – Pursue Your Passion,” which offered an employee from the Baltimore office, the opportunity to receive up to $2,500 and 5 additional paid days off to help pursue that individual’s passion.

Upon reading the details of the initiative, I was very excited and jumped at the opportunity to hopefully have the chance to do something I’ve always wanted to do – a Habitat for Humanity trip to Costa Rica. I was lucky enough to be the recipient of the award and before I knew it, I was on my way to Costa Rica for an experience of a lifetime.  

During my time in Costa Rica, I worked alongside a group of 12 volunteers from across the United States, two Habitat for Humanity Costa Rica staff, and the future homeowners, Lucy and Roger. Almost immediately, strong bonds were formed among the team and it was as if we had known each other for years! 

When we arrived to the site on the first morning, no construction had begun, so we quickly realized we had our work cut out for us. All week, we worked together digging holes, mixing concrete, and constructing the walls. By the end of the week, all the walls of the house were standing and the remainder of the construction will be completed within the next month and Lucy and Roger will be able to start enjoying their new home. Although Lucy didn’t speak English and our Spanish was very minimal, words weren’t needed. It was evident in Lucy’s expressions and body language – she was so grateful for our help in building her home and she was so hopeful for what the future holds. Seeing her reaction is something I will never forget.