IAM headquarters employees in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, held a summer barbecue luncheon to raise funds for Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event was organized by the IAM General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office and brought together staff members who contributed donations in exchange for a meal that included burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian options, sides, drinks, and desserts. Leftover food was sold the following day. The fundraiser collected about $1,000.
Paul Kendall, IAM Assistant Secretary, prepared food on the grill with support from Administrative Staff Secretary Kelly Felton. Brooklyn Rains and Yesenia Flamenco promoted the event among headquarters staff and handled setup duties.
“I appreciate the opportunity to cook and spend time with our staff and help to raise money for GDA | TLC,” said Kendall. “The IAM and GDA | TLC were founded to make the lives of many better, and anything we can do to support the cause is a win for all.”
This cookout is one of several efforts by the General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office to assist GDA | TLC. Other activities include organizing fundraisers throughout the year, collecting regular contributions from staff members, and maintaining a weekly “Jeans Friday” tradition where employees donate in order to wear jeans at work.
GDA | TLC supplies service dogs for people who are blind or visually impaired as well as veterans, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, and others facing physical or psychological challenges. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers has supported this organization for years and remains its largest financial backer.
“With the rest of our union, the GST’s Office takes great pride in doing our part to support GDA | TLC,” said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes. “We are all blessed and fortunate to be part of a strong union, and we take giving back to those in need very seriously. The life-changing gift GDA | TLC provides is dear to our hearts, and it’s our pleasure to help in any and every way.”
The office expressed gratitude toward everyone who participated or donated during this fundraising effort.