At HGD Law Firm, community is not a side initiative—it is a core part of who we are. This week, our team had the privilege of welcoming Terri Harvill, Chief Social Impact Officer of the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, to our firm huddle. Terri joined us to personally thank HGD for our continued partnership with the YMCA and for the time, resources, leadership, and heart our team brings to serving families across our community.
Her visit was a meaningful reminder that when local organizations work together with shared purpose, the impact extends far beyond any single event or donation.
Meet Terri Harvill: Champion for Community Impact
As Chief Social Impact Officer, Terri Harvill plays a vital role in advancing the YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s mission to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Her work focuses on ensuring that YMCA programs are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the real needs of individuals and families throughout the Birmingham area.
From addressing food insecurity to expanding access to early childhood education and youth leadership programs, Terri helps guide initiatives that improve quality of life and create long-term opportunity. Her leadership reflects the YMCA’s belief that strong communities are built when people are supported in body, mind, and spirit.
A Partnership Rooted in Service
HGD Law Firm’s relationship with the YMCA of Greater Birmingham is built on shared values: service, leadership, and a commitment to doing what’s right. Over the years, our firm has proudly supported the Y in several meaningful ways.
Supporting Families Through Food Drives
Food insecurity remains a challenge for many families in our community. HGD regularly participates in food drives throughout the year, working alongside the YMCA to help ensure families have access to nutritious meals—especially during times when school-based meal programs are unavailable.
In addition to food donations, our team has contributed volunteer hours and provided sturdy, reusable, insulated bags to help families transport and store food safely. These small details matter, and they reflect our belief that dignity and care should be part of every act of service.
Racing for a Cause: Race to the Courthouse
Each year, HGD is proud to take part in the Race to the Courthouse, a community 5K benefiting the Downtown YMCA Youth Center. This event brings together law firms, local businesses, families, and YMCA supporters to raise funds that directly support youth programs and services.
Our attorneys and staff don’t just show up—we run, walk, volunteer, and cheer each other on. It’s one of the many ways we support initiatives that promote healthy living while investing in the next generation.
Leadership That Extends Beyond the Office
HGD Law Firm’s partnership with the YMCA of Greater Birmingham is strengthened through hands-on leadership and long-standing commitment from members of our team who consistently step up to serve.
Bill Bross, a partner at HGD, currently serves as a member of the YMCA’s Advisory Board and plays a key role in spearheading the firm’s ongoing involvement with the Y. From supporting fundraising efforts to encouraging firm-wide participation in events and service initiatives, Bill helps ensure that HGD’s partnership with the YMCA is both intentional and impactful. His leadership reflects a belief that meaningful community engagement starts with accountability at the top.
Working alongside Bill is Pam Putman, a paralegal on the HGD team whose dedication and heart for service help bring these initiatives to life. Pam plays an instrumental role in organizing and supporting HGD’s YMCA-related efforts, including food drives, volunteer coordination, and community outreach. Her behind-the-scenes work ensures that these initiatives run smoothly and reach the families who need them most.
- Jeanie Sleadd, a member of the HGD team, currently serves on the YMCA board, contributing her time, insight, and leadership to help guide the organization’s mission and growth.
- Tzena Gauldin, a past board member, has been deeply involved with the YMCA for many years. She previously chaired the YMCA’s Annual Fundraiser and led a fundraising team for multiple years, playing a key role in supporting programs that benefit children, families, and individuals throughout the community.
This leadership reflects HGD’s belief that true community partnership means showing up consistently, lending expertise, and helping shape sustainable solutions.
Why YMCA Fundraising Matters
Funds raised through YMCA campaigns, events, and partnerships directly support programs that change lives, including:
- Youth Development & Childcare: After-school programs, summer camps, youth sports, and leadership initiatives that help children build confidence, character, and skills.
- Food & Nutrition Programs: Efforts to combat hunger and promote healthy habits for families facing food insecurity.
- Financial Assistance: Scholarships and sliding-scale access to ensure that no one is turned away from YMCA programs due to financial hardship.
- Community Health & Wellness: Programs that promote physical activity, mental wellness, and social connection for people of all ages.
HGD is proud to support these efforts, knowing that every dollar raised helps strengthen families and build a healthier, more connected Birmingham.
A Meaningful Moment of Gratitude
During her visit to our huddle, Terri Harvill shared sincere appreciation for HGD’s ongoing commitment to the YMCA. Her words resonated deeply with our team, reinforcing why community engagement is such an important part of our culture.
Her message was clear: partnerships like this make a real difference—not just in numbers, but in people’s lives.
Looking Ahead
HGD Law Firm remains committed to supporting the YMCA of Greater Birmingham through volunteerism, leadership, and continued partnership. We are grateful for leaders like Terri Harvill, for the work of the YMCA, and for the opportunity to stand alongside them in service of our community.
Because when we invest in people, we invest in a stronger future for everyone.
