Unions are about family, community, and workers looking out for one another. In the Building Community section, we report on union volunteer work, charitable activity, and outreach in the community.
The event promotes residential fire sprinkler systems as a life-saver.
Nine children’s charities were presented with the proceeds of this year’s 20th annual Business Union and Labor Leaders Charity Golf Tournament. A total of $300,000 was distributed to local charities that benefit children needing long-term chronic care, short-term respite, and end-of-life care. Since its inception in 1990, the BULL session has raised over $4 million.
Members of several trades unions were among scores of volunteers who helped build a new home for injured Iraq war veteran SPC Kevin Pannell. Pannell was serving in Iraq with the 1st Cavalry Division when he was severely injured on June 13, 2004.
For union members in need, by far the two biggest sources of help are unemployment insurance and food stamps. In the Portland area, unions refer hardship cases to Labor’s Community Service Agency.
Volunteer electricians from IBEW Local 48 helped The Grotto in Northeast Portland get ready for its annual Festival of Lights electricians, mounting panels and assembling temporary power boxes that supply power to more than half a million lights and fiber-optic and animated displays.
Labor’s Community Service Agency and Machinists District Lodge 24 sponsored a seminar Oct. 22 for people facing foreclosure on their homes. About 70 people attended.
