IAM Union Headquarters employees in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, held a summer cookout fundraiser to benefit Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event was organized by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office.
Staff members who donated were served a cookout meal that included burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian options, sides, drinks, and desserts. Leftover food was sold the following day. The fundraiser brought in about $1,000 for GDA | TLC.
IAM Assistant Secretary Paul Kendall prepared food on the grill during the event. He was supported by Administrative Staff Secretary Kelly Felton and Administrative Staff Secretaries Brooklyn Rains and Yesenia Flamenco, who promoted and set up the event for headquarters staff.
“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 has organized various fundraisers for GDA | TLC over time. The office also collects regular contributions from staff and promotes a weekly “Jeans Friday” tradition at IAM headquarters that raises additional donations.
Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines provides service dogs to people who are blind or visually impaired, veterans, individuals with autism, and others facing physical or psychological challenges. According to information from the organization, IAM members have been significant supporters of GDA | TLC over the years and are its largest financial contributors.
“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 thanks to everyone who participated in or donated during this fundraising effort.