IAM members from across the United States recently gathered for a Veterans Committee-Building Class, an initiative focused on service, leadership, and support for veterans within the union and their communities. The event brought together individuals with military backgrounds to share experiences and develop strategies to strengthen advocacy for veterans.
During the program, participants engaged in classroom sessions, workshops, and group discussions that addressed challenges such as navigating VA benefits, accessing support resources, and organizing community events. The goal was to equip attendees with practical tools to build effective veterans committees at both district and local levels.
As part of the class activities, members volunteered at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. They worked collectively to dismantle and reconstruct a safety fence around a pond on the property. This effort was intended to demonstrate the organization’s commitment to community service.
Rich Evans, IAM Veterans Services Coordinator, emphasized the ongoing nature of service among veterans: “When veterans unite through the IAM, we create more than committees. We build bridges of support, leadership, and solidarity,” said Evans. “This program reminds us that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It continues in our workplaces and communities, where we stand together to care for one another.”
The program highlighted how shared experiences can foster collaboration and mutual support among veterans in union settings.
