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The Marion, Miss., Police Department Toy Drive is an annual tradition that provides IAM Local 18 with a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community it proudly serves. Each year, the event brings together multiple sponsoring organizations to help ensure children in the area have a brighter holiday season.
The toy drive is organized by Marion Police Chief Randall Davis, a proud IAM Local 18 member, who coordinates community donations and support to reach children and families in need. This year, IAM Local 18 contributed $5,000 to the effort and formed a dedicated Toy Drive Committee to oversee the purchasing and delivery of toys.
“This is what union solidarity looks like in action – IAM members stepping up, giving back, and lifting up the communities where we live and work,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “IAM Local 18’s commitment to the Marion Police Department Toy Drive reflects the very best of our union – compassion, service, and a deep sense of responsibility to ensure no child is left behind during the holiday season.”
“This toy drive is a special time for Local 18 to come together and truly make a difference for families in our community,” said IAM W2021 President and Directing Business Representative John Piatt.
Members Dexter, Kendall, Jeremy, Dustin, and Emery, Dustin’s daughter, recently represented Local 18 during the shopping portion of the drive, helping select toys that will soon bring smiles to children’s faces. The toy drive, held just days before Christmas, is a day-long event filled with long lines of excited children and grateful parents, serving as a powerful reminder of the impact union solidarity can have beyond the workplace.
Local 18 proudly supports the needs of the Marion community and surrounding areas and extends its sincere appreciation to all members who generously give their time, effort, and dedication to make this annual event a success.
