Locals Step Up for Community Service

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)Union members know what it means to struggle, so it’s no surprise that they don’t forget to reach out to those in need. The OPEIU Local 2 shop at the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), for example, recently collected kids' school supplies -- everything from pens and rulers to dictionaries, composition books and backpacks -- to donate to Fashion Empowering Women, a local non-profit that support the missions of social service organizations that empower girls and women. “Thanks to these generous donations, a lot of children started school this year with the proper supplies,” reports Local 2. Also stepping up were American Income Life and Jessica Ingerick with recent donations of non-perishable food, as well as Mary Young, a steward for UNITE HERE Local 25, who works at the Capital Hilton and called the Metro Washington Council’s Community Services Agency when the hotel had sheets and blankets to donate. “We put her in touch with two local homeless shelters,” says McKirchy. “Thanks again to everyone!” For more on how you or your local can help – or to report on how you have helped – email McKirchy at kmckirchy@dclaborarchives.org. - photo courtesy of OPEIU staff at AFGE