IAM Union members and supporters of Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC) gathered in Las Vegas for a series of fundraising events. The activities, which included a sporting clay shoot, race car driving, ax throwing, golf, and a gala dinner, were organized to support GDA | TLC’s mission of providing service dogs to people who are blind or living with PTSD and autism.
Brian Bryant, International President of the IAM Union, expressed appreciation for the turnout and support from participants and sponsors. “I want to thank everyone here tonight on behalf of myself and the entire IAM Executive Council for coming out in such large numbers,” said Bryant. He also acknowledged the fundraising efforts by union members from various territories.
The Saturday night gala dinner had a baseball theme and was attended by more than 1,000 supporters. During the event, this year’s “Gift of Sight” awards were presented to David Sullivan (IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President), Arthur Maratea (TCU/IAM National President), and Southwest Airlines.
Speakers at the event discussed how service dogs have changed recipients’ lives. Among them was a Canadian military veteran who described his experience with his PTSD service dog.
