IAM headquarters staff in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, recently held a summer barbecue fundraiser organized by the General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office. The event supported Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC), a charity that provides service dogs to people who are blind or visually impaired, veterans, individuals with autism, and others facing physical or psychological challenges.
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 raised about $1,000 for GDA | TLC.
IAM Assistant Secretary Paul Kendall prepared food on the grill and was assisted by Administrative Staff Secretary Kelly Felton. Brooklyn Rains and Yesenia Flamenco promoted the event among headquarters staff and helped with 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 General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office has supported GDA | TLC through fundraisers, regular contributions, and weekly “Jeans Friday” donations at IAM headquarters.
IAM members and leadership have long been supporters of GDA | TLC. The union is the largest financial contributor to the nonprofit’s mission.
“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.
