IAM Union Headquarters employees in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, recently held a summer barbecue fundraiser to support Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event was organized by the General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).
Attendees made donations to enjoy a cookout menu that included burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian options, sides, drinks, and desserts. Leftover food was sold the following day. The fundraiser collected about $1,000 for GDA | TLC.
Paul Kendall, IAM Assistant Secretary, handled grilling duties with help from Administrative Staff Secretary Kelly Felton. Brooklyn Rains and Yesenia Flamenco promoted the event among headquarters staff and managed setup.
“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.”
The IAM General Secretary-Treasurer’s office supports GDA | TLC through various efforts such as organizing fundraisers, collecting regular contributions, and encouraging participation in weekly “Jeans Friday” at headquarters in exchange for small donations.
GDA | TLC provides service dogs for people who are blind or visually impaired as well as veterans, individuals with autism, and others facing physical or psychological challenges. The IAM has been a longstanding supporter of GDA | TLC and is recognized as its largest financial contributor.
“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 General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office expressed gratitude toward everyone who participated or donated during this effort.
