Chris Taylor, Marketing Representative for LIUNA Local 1098 in Saginaw, Mich., joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's community outreach efforts, their impact and the current work outlook for members. Taylor also highlighted the Local's involvement in Laborers Rising, a program encouraging union members to engage with and support their communities.
Taylor explained that Local 1098 has significantly increased its community involvement, participating in more than 15 events last year, including food drives, backpack distributions and coat drives. These efforts have revealed the extent of need in the community, with food drives attracting hundreds of families hours before the scheduled start time. Taylor said the union's members have enthusiastically embraced these opportunities to give back, recognizing the importance of their role beyond construction work.
The Local has undertaken various projects, from building ramps for disabled community members to remodeling a STEM room for the local Boys and Girls Club. Taylor emphasized the importance of increasing media coverage of these initiatives to showcase the union's positive impact. He also noted the need to expand outreach efforts to ensure the community is aware of the union as a resource for assistance.
Regarding work prospects, Taylor reported strong man-hours for Local 1098 members, with ongoing solar projects and potential infrastructure work. However, he expressed concern about new regulations potentially impacting green energy projects, which could affect job opportunities for union members. Taylor said the Local is actively working with government officials to secure road funding and support for various infrastructure initiatives crucial to their membership.
Listen to the full episode above for more insights from Taylor on LIUNA Local 1098's community initiatives and work outlook.
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