June 23, 2026 – West Bend, Wi — Volunteers rolled up their sleeves Tuesday as United Way of Washington County marked its annual Day of Action by refreshing the Born Learning Trail at Villa Park in West Bend, Wi.
The project was led by United Way’s Emerging Leaders group and focused on revitalizing the interactive trail that encourages parents, grandparents, and caregivers to turn a simple walk into a learning adventure for children.
The Born Learning Trail first opened 10 years ago through a partnership between United Way of Washington County, Richards Insurance, and the late Bob Gannon.
This year, the trail’s refresh carries special meaning as Bob’s son, Bryce Gannon, and the Richards Insurance team returned as the presenting sponsor for the Day of Action project.
“Today we’re giving the Born Learning Trail new life in memory of my father, Bob Gannon,” said Bryce Gannon. “He didn’t just believe in community; he put in the work for it. A place where local kids can play, explore, and learn is exactly the kind of thing he cared about.”
Gannon said seeing volunteers come together to improve the trail is a meaningful tribute to his father’s legacy. “My dad really liked to give back to West Bend. We have the Born Learning Trail and we’re trying to give kids an educational opportunity while they’re at the park.
“Dad helped sponsor the original trail a decade ago through Richards Insurance. Ten years later, we get to give it renewed energy. I think he’d be proud.”
The trail features colorful signs and activities designed to promote early learning, language development, and school readiness while children and families enjoy the outdoors.
For Emerging Leader and West Bend School District employee Kayla Koenig, the project aligns with United Way’s commitment to helping children succeed from an early age.
“United Way continues to focus on quality early learning experiences for all children because they are a key driver of school readiness, vital to improving high school graduation rates, and critical to an individual’s ability to contribute to their community,” said Koenig.
United Way of Washington County CEO Kristin Brandner said the project also honors the vision Bob Gannon had when the trail was first established.
“Bob knew that children are our future and that when we devote resources to our children, we improve the community as a whole,” said Brandner. “We are so grateful to Bob and the Richards Insurance team for their vision 10 years ago, and thankful that Bryce and Richards Insurance continue to demonstrate their commitment to the youngest members of our community today.”
The annual Day of Action is part of United Way’s broader mission to mobilize volunteers and strengthen communities throughout Washington County.
As United Way celebrates its 90th year in 2026, the organization continues its focus on creating opportunities for local residents through investments in youth opportunity, financial security, and healthy communities.
United Way of Washington County supports more than 20 local nonprofit organizations through more than 25 funded programs serving residents across the county.
