IAM members from various locals across the United States recently participated in a program designed to support military veterans within their union and communities. The IAM Veterans Committee-Building Class focused on developing leadership and advocacy skills among members with military backgrounds.
The week-long event included classroom sessions, workshops, and group discussions. Participants shared their experiences as veterans and worked together to identify key issues facing former service members. Topics addressed included navigating the Department of Veterans Affairs benefits system, accessing support resources, and organizing community service initiatives.
As part of the program, attendees volunteered at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home. They collaborated to dismantle and rebuild a safety fence around a pond on the facility’s grounds, reflecting the union’s commitment to community service.
Rich Evans, IAM Veterans Services Coordinator, emphasized the significance of these efforts: “When veterans unite through the IAM, we create more than committees. We build bridges of support, leadership, and solidarity,” said Evans. “This program reminds us that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It continues in our workplaces and communities, where we stand together to care for one another.”
The initiative highlights how union members are working together to strengthen support systems for veterans both inside and outside their workplaces.
