More than 150 volunteers from IAM Local 701 gathered on Feb. 28 to participate in the IAM H.E.L.P.S. community service event at Feed My Starving Children in Aurora, Illinois.
The annual effort is part of the union’s commitment to supporting those in need and strengthening bonds among members and their communities.
Volunteers included Local 701 Business Representatives, Executive Board members, Apprenticeship Training Center instructors and staff, Health, Welfare and Pension Department personnel, as well as union members and their families. Together they packed 180 boxes of meals—enough to provide daily nutrition for 107 children for an entire year.
“When IAM members step up to serve their communities, it reflects the very best of our union,” said IAM Union Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “The work done here through IAM H.E.L.P.S. is a powerful reminder that our strength isn’t just on the job, but it’s in how we lift up others and make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Feed My Starving Children is an international nonprofit organization focused on addressing global malnutrition by providing specially formulated meals developed by food science professionals.
“This event highlighted the strength and pride of the membership,” said Local 701 Organizer Mike Wendling. “Volunteers filling the room in IAM H.E.L.P.S. shirts while working together to make a difference was a powerful visual.”
“Volunteering alongside fellow members strengthens bonds within the local while extending meaningful support to children worldwide,” said IAM 701 Directing Business Representative Mark Grasseschi.
Through initiatives like this one, IAM Local 701 continues its tradition of community involvement beyond workplace issues.
