The Heart Behind the Ride: Brigid Gibson’s Legacy of Action

That desire led Brigid to offer her skills in administration, sponsorships, grants, and donor communications, volunteering alongside her full-time corporate role. In those early years, there was no roadmap. Just the will to make a difference.

From banking setups and government registrations to the launch of the original sponsorship program, Brigid helped lay the very foundations of Hands. She was instrumental in coordinating the first-ever Ride to Provide in 2009, cycling 800km across Thailand to raise $10,000, unaware that this ride would soon become a symbol of endurance, community, and impact.

“I remember riding into Baan Than Namchai at the end of that first ride. The kids were cheering, there was a marching band… it was pure elation. We were exhausted, overwhelmed, and utterly united. That feeling has never left me.”

But Brigid’s story isn’t just about the ride. It’s about the way she’s shown up, year after year, for a cause that calls to something deeper: purpose.

Hands has always been a reflection of what truly matters to Brigid. It’s shaped her understanding of generosity, not just in giving money or time, but in showing up, even when it’s inconvenient. “When you don’t have time, make time. When you’re tired, keep going. That’s how we build legacy.”

Her visits to the homes, especially BTN and Yasathon, left an indelible impression. “What struck me most was the joy. The kids were so full of love and energy despite everything they’d been through. You can’t witness that and not be moved.”

It was also here she witnessed a profound shift: from immediate crisis response to long-term opportunity. “Seeing the young adults begin university, that was a turning point for me. Hands was no longer just about care. It was about creating futures.”

Among her most powerful memories is witnessing the fierce love of Mae Thiew, the strength of Khun Rotjana, and the tenacity of people who devoted their lives to the children in their care. “They are guiding lights. Their grace, their fight, their unwavering commitment, it’s humbling. I carry their legacy with me.”

For Brigid, Hands has never been about being in the spotlight. It’s about backing the mission with whatever she could offer, whether it was writing grants, building systems, or simply believing in the vision.

“I’ve always believed we can make a difference. And I still believe that today.”

She’s quick to deflect praise. “Many others have done more than I ever did,” she says. “But I’m proud of those crazy early days, getting things off the ground, building something that endures. I’m proud of the Ride to Provide and all it has come to symbolise.”

That modesty doesn’t erase the impact she’s made. Her legacy is etched into the DNA of Hands, the systems she helped build, the opportunities she helped unlock, the lives she helped change.

And what has she received in return?

Perspective. Purpose. Gratitude.

“Hands keeps me grounded. It reminds me to focus on what really matters—lifting others, contributing to something meaningful, and staying connected to community.”
Ask Brigid what “home” means now and she won’t hesitate: “It’s not a place. It’s a feeling. It’s community, connection, and belonging. I’ve found that with Hands.”

In the years since that first ride, Brigid’s life has evolved—but her connection to Hands has never wavered. She’s cheered from the sidelines when not on the front lines, and she continues to be a fierce advocate for what Hands stands for.