GrowJobsCT, an IAM-initiated program was granted 501c3 tax-exempt status by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) last week. GrowJobsCT is a coalition that brings together labor, businesses, community groups, and elected officials in working to preserve and expand manufacturing jobs in Connecticut and was created by IAM District 26, with the support of the Eastern Territory GVP Lynn D. Tucker, Jr. and the IAM Executive Council.
Through this ruling, the federal government officially recognizes the role of GrowJobsCT in providing a valuable public service to workers, businesses and communities of the state in fighting to maintain good-paying jobs. “Getting the tax exempt status from the IRS means that GrowJobsCT can seek funding from major foundations that only give to 501c3 groups,” said District 26 DBR Everett Corey. “This will be a big help in continuing our work fighting for Connecticut jobs.”
GrowJobsCT has become an important player in bringing together non-traditional allies on issues crucial to a common goal – good jobs. US Representatives John Larson, Joe Courtney and Rosa DeLauro all submitted letters to the IRS in support of the GrowJobsCT application, praising the work of the coalition. “It was not easy to win this ruling from the IRS, and we could not have done it without the backing of GVP Tucker and the IAM Executive Council,” said GrowJobsCT Director John Harrity. “We’re grateful for that support, and will take full advantage of the opportunities it opens up.”