Organized Labor

Organized labor and United Way of Allen County have worked in partnership since 1958.                                                                                                

Today, United Way partners with labor on such projects as the eight-week Community Education Program for individuals who are experiencing a layoff or job change. United Way and labor also assist with the Letter Carriers' Food Drive, Earned Income Tax Credit program, senior health fair, Day of Caring and many other activities.

United We Ride is Labor's annual motorcycle ride that raises money for United Way of Allen County. It will take place on September 11, 2010.

History of United Way/Organized Labor partnership

A basic principle of the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) Community Services Program is that the union member is first and foremost a citizen of the community who strives to make the community a good place in which to live, work, raise children and retire.

In Fort Wayne, this partnership is working to build a better community and provide services for those in need. Through this effort, local unions and their members are helping United Way of Allen County by giving at their workplace and volunteering.

Union representatives are active at all levels of United Way, including the Board of Directors, agency relations and allocations, Day of Caring, food drives and educational programs.

Donating to United Way is a choice – a choice that we make to help others. Helping those who are laid off or who have been dislocated through plant closings. Helping those who are not making a living wage. Working together – giving respect and dignity back to those who have lost it through no fault of their own.

If you would like to volunteer or want more information on this collaborative effort, contact AFL-CIO Community Services Liaison Vickie Meyers at (260) 422-4776.