More than 150 volunteers from IAM Local 701 participated on Feb. 28 in the IAM H.E.L.P.S. community service event at Feed My Starving Children in Aurora, Illinois, packing meals for children in need.
The event brought together union members and their families to address global malnutrition by preparing food boxes that will support children around the world. Organizers say this initiative highlights how union solidarity can extend beyond the workplace into broader communities.
Participants included Business Representatives, Executive Board members, Apprenticeship Training Center instructors and staff, Health, Welfare and Pension Department personnel, as well as other union members and their families. Together they packaged 180 boxes of meals—enough to provide daily nutrition for 107 children over 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 addressing malnutrition with scientifically developed meal packs designed to improve health outcomes for vulnerable children worldwide.
“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.”
“Volunteering alongside fellow members strengthens bonds within the local while extending meaningful support to children worldwide,” said IAM 701 Directing Business Representative Mark Grasseschi.
The IAM Midwest Territory “IAM H.E.L.P.S. in the Community” initiative stands for Honoring, Engaging, Lifting, Providing, and Servicing.
