Call to serve fits with union members' values

Community service. For some folks, it just comes naturally, like performing random acts of kindness but on a larger scale.

This summer President Obama initiated a national call to volunteers with the United We Serve campaign, which runs through Sept. 11.

UAW members across the country did their part to answer the president's call to service because it's the union way. Year after year, when the request goes out to support nonprofit organizations in the communities in which we work and live, UAW men and women heed the call.

"The values and vision of the UAW for social and economic justice for all people also define who we are as a union," said UAW President Ron Gettelfinger. "We aim to build better communities, one at a time. That's not just a motto we quote to one another. It's our duty."

Established in 1951 at the UAW's 13th Constitutional Convention, the Community Services Department works closely with government health and social service agencies.

The UAW has been a longstanding partner with many nonprofit organizations, including the March of Dimes, Salvation Army, American Red Cross and the United Way – a 60-year partnership.

"These have been some tough times. But we make it through by standing together and lending a hand," said Gettelfinger.

UAW members and retirees seeking volunteer activities should check with their local community services committee or visit www.serve.gov.

Do Something is an ongoing feature showcasing UAW members and retirees who have answered the call to service. If your local has been doing something special, let us know by sending an e-mail with "Do Something" in the subject line to uawsolidarity@uaw.net; fax to (313) 926-5120, or a letter to UAW Solidarity, 8000 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit, MI 48214.