AFL-CIO Community Services & United Way Partnership
Together we can accomplish so much more.
Giving back is a union tradition and United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta is honored to partner with members of organized labor to help communities. Whether it's contributing time, skills or money, union members help make a huge difference in our community through the United Way.
Our AFL-CIO Community Services Liaison, Janine Brown works with union members and local labor unions to enhance support of United Way and of the community and to identify programs and services for union members, including the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), United Way’s Individual Development Programs, Habitat Housing and more. In support of the labor community she participates in voter registration and education programs, works with community partners and the faith based community on issues of common concern.
Working with Local union leaders, she engages members in volunteerism. And Union leaders play a vital role in supporting United Way campaigns in partnership with their employers by endorsing the campaign, and participation in rallies and other campaign events.
To learn more about the partnership, contact Janine or 404 527 7417. Email Janine to sign up for the monthly Community Services Newsletter which includes highlights of labor and United Way activities throughout the month as well as upcoming events.
History Behind the Partnership
In 1946 the The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) and United Way of America (now Worldwide) joined forces. The objective of this partnership at that time and today is to effect positive change in our communities; to become a part of the solution. This partnership included inviting Labor onto the Board of Directors at the national level as well as marshalling Labor Liaisons as a positive force at local United Ways across the country. Here at United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, the partnership in Atlanta places emphasis on community service through volunteerism, education, information/referral, and support of United Way through employer based giving campaigns and contributions from local unions and their staff.
Testimonials
AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka says the partnership between the AFL-CIO and United Way provides a valuable service:
At a time when working families across this country are facing a job crisis and unprecedented hardship, our partnership with the United Way is more valued that ever. Workers and their communities are hurting and the services of the United Way are vital to the very survival of so many. The vision of “Live United” could not be more appropriate for these times.
Brian Gallagher, CEO of United Way Worldwide, adds:
The labor movement and the United Way movement have a long history of partnership and dedication to community. We not only have a passion for improving lives but we have a shared commitment to bringing people, organizations and resources together to create opportunities for a better life for all.
“Why should union members support United Way?”
Read these endorsement letters from Union leaders to members and find out why.
National AFL-CIO
Georgia AFL-CIO
Atlanta North Georgia Labor Council
American Federation of Teachers
Bakery Confectionery Tobacco and Grain Millers
Building and Construction Trades Council
Communications Workers of America
Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics & Allied International Union
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
National Association of Letter Carriers
Operative Plasterers and Cement Mason’s Union
Transportation Communications Union
United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW)
Union Local 1996