IAM Gives Back During Holiday Season

Staff members at IAM Headquarters donated and wrapped presents for two needy families in the Washington, DC area.

As the holidays draw closer, IAM Headquarters and Local Lodge 1943 in Middletown, OH, have been busy making the season just a little bit brighter for families in their communities.

Staff at Headquarters spent the last two weeks collecting gifts, clothes, goodie-filled stockings, and grocery and gas gift cards for two needy families in the Washington, DC area. The staff raised $1,235 plus gifts for the families.

Santa (Local Lodge 1943 member Todd Rowe) and 3-year-old Michael Creekbaum at the Local Lodge 1943 Annual Children’s Christmas Show in Middletown, OH.

The gifts were wrapped and delivered to the families by the staff themselves.

“It was an honor to be able to help families in need this holiday season,” said IAM General Vice President Diane Babineaux, who delivered presents with GVP Dora Cervantes. “IAM members took great pride in giving back to the community.”

Local 1943 hosted its annual Children’s Christmas Show recently, renting out a local theater for members and their families. Local 1943 members are employed at AK Steel and Pilot Chemical in Middletown.

Nearly 700 people showed up for a full day of movie access featuring seasonal choices as well as current box office hits. Festivities included an array of prizes geared toward children and one special grand prize for adults who brought their children with them.

But for many of the children, Santa was the star of the show.  

“This is just a fun way to spend a day celebrating the holidays,” said Local 1943 Young Machinists member Mike Creekbaum. “My wife and kids just love it, and although my kids are still very young, they remembered last year and were anxious to come see Santa today.”

“Thanks go out to Committeeman Shawn Coffey and the entire Children’s Christmas Committee,” said Local 1943 President and Directing Business Representative Neil Douglas. “This event is one of the most anticipated things we do at our local each year, and it continues to grow each year. Its continued success is due to the efforts of that entire committee and our volunteers.”

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