IAM Union Headquarters employees in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, held a summer barbecue fundraiser to support Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event, organized by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office, offered a menu featuring burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian options, sides, drinks, and desserts. Employees could participate by making a donation. Leftover food was sold the following day. The cookout raised about $1,000 for GDA | TLC.
Paul Kendall, IAM Assistant Secretary, led the cooking efforts with help from Administrative Staff Secretary Kelly Felton. Brooklyn Rains and Yesenia Flamenco, also administrative staff secretaries, promoted the event and handled preparations.
“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 fundraiser is one example of how the IAM General Secretary-Treasurer’s office supports GDA | TLC. Other efforts include organizing fundraisers throughout the year, collecting regular contributions from employees, and running a weekly “Jeans Friday” at headquarters where staff can donate in exchange for wearing jeans.
GDA | TLC provides service dogs to people who are blind or visually impaired as well as veterans, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, and others facing physical or psychological challenges. IAM members have consistently supported this organization over time and are 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 fundraising effort.
