More than 150 members and supporters of IAM Local 701 volunteered 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 initiative brought together union representatives, executive board members, instructors from the Apprenticeship Training Center, staff from Health, Welfare and Pension departments, as well as union members and their families. The group worked together to package 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 fighting global malnutrition by providing scientifically developed meals to children worldwide.
Local organizers described the event as a strong display of unity within the membership. “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.” Mark Grasseschi, Directing Business Representative for IAM Local 701, added: “Volunteering alongside fellow members strengthens bonds within the local while extending meaningful support to children worldwide.”
IAM Local 701 continues its commitment to community engagement through efforts like this one under its Midwest Territory “IAM H.E.L.P.S. in the Community” initiative—which stands for Honoring, Engaging, Lifting, Providing, and Servicing.
