IAM Union Headquarters employees in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, recently held a summer cookout fundraiser organized by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) General Secretary-Treasurer’s Office. The event aimed to support Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC), a nonprofit that provides service dogs to people who are blind or visually impaired, veterans, individuals with autism, and others facing physical or psychological challenges.
Attendees contributed donations in exchange for a meal that included burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian options, sides, drinks, and desserts. Leftover food was sold the following day. The cookout raised about $1,000 for GDA | TLC.
Paul Kendall, IAM Assistant Secretary, prepared food at the grill alongside 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 fundraiser is one example of how the IAM General Secretary-Treasurer’s office supports GDA | TLC throughout the year. Other efforts include organizing additional fundraisers, collecting regular contributions from staff members, and encouraging participation in their weekly “Jeans Friday” tradition for small donations.
IAM has been a long-standing supporter of GDA | TLC and is its largest financial contributor. According to union leadership, these events not only generate important funding but also reflect IAM’s commitment to community service both inside and outside the workplace.
“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 effort on behalf of what they call their favorite charity.
