Milwaukee IAM Members Support Youth Literacy

IAM District 10 successfully held its 4th annual H.E.L.P.S. book drive and volunteer event at the Next Door Foundation. This initiative aims to bolster early literacy efforts and strengthen families in Milwaukee.

In early December, more than a dozen IAM District 10 members participated in a meaningful volunteer effort. They dedicated their time to one-on-one reading sessions with children enrolled in the Next Door Foundation's educational programs at their Capitol Drive facility. This focused reading time aims to enhance children's literacy skills and cultivate a lifelong love for books.

The Next Door Foundation provides vital services to nearly 1,400 children annually, ranging from birth to five years old. Committed to preparing children for academic success, the organization offers center-based programs, home visitation, and partnerships across 11 Milwaukee County sites. Its comprehensive approach includes academic and social-emotional learning, behavioral support, mental health resources, and medical and dental care-all free of charge to families.

"The IAM believes in the power of education and community service as core principles," said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. "The commitment from IAM District 10 members exemplifies how individuals can come together to create lasting positive change in the lives of every child. Each of our H.E.L.P.S. events, that happen throughout our Territory, reaffirms our commitment to helping each other and support for members and their families in our neighborhoods."

As part of the H.E.L.P.S. initiative, IAM District 10 proudly donated more than 500 new and used children's books contributed by IAM members and their families from throughout Wisconsin.

"In addition to fighting each day for fair wages and a healthy work-life balance, IAM District 10 strives to uphold the union's mission of 'Justice on the Job, Service to the Community' by giving back to the communities where its members live and work," said IAM District 10 Organizer Anne Winberg.

The IAM Midwest Territory began the "IAM H.E.L.P.S. in the Community " initiative in the spring of 2017 to provide essential assistance to residents in need. H.E.L.P.S. stands for Honoring, Engaging, Lifting, Providing and Servicing.