Partnership with Labor

For more than 60 years the United Way and organized labor have been working together to improve the quality of life for everyone in Niagara County. Guided by AFL/CIO Labor Liaison, William Jakobi, the labor advisory movement continues to be a strong influence in our community.

Organized Labor has given generously, not only financially but also of their time and talent to support much needed human service programs throughout our community. Members of the labor community serve on the Eastern Niagara United Way's Board of Directors and help with the community campaign by soliciting contributions from workers through payroll deduction. Some of the accomplishments of Labor are:

• The 2008 Pot-O-Gold Give Away
  This event funds the Niagara/Orleans Labor Council's Community Services programs. 

• National Letter Carrier's Food Drive
  The Buffalo/Western New York Branch #3 was ranked number one in the nation for over all poundage of food collected for several years in a row. The letter carriers of Western New York and volunteers like you collect nearly 2 million pounds of food for local food pantries each year.

• Worker's Memorial Service
  Located on Route 265 in Niagara Falls, New York on the grounds of Reservoir Park of the NYS Power Authority, this monument is a tribute to the workers of the Western New York community who have lost their lives in job related accidents. A memorial service is held annually in the spring to remember our lost and to reaffirm our commitment to improve the safety conditions in the workplace.

• AFL/CIO United Way Emergency Fund
  Yearly many workers who have fallen upon hard times are helped monetarily and through referrals to other community human service programs.
• Union Counselor Courses
  Labor volunteers are given information and the skills needed to help anyone in need to find existing social services.
• Workers in Transition
  Workshops are conducted to help workers who have lost their jobs due to plant closings or layoffs with information on job search and programs that are available to help them until they find new employment.
• AFL/CIO N/O Labor Council, Harry S. Jordan Scholarship
  This scholarship is awarded yearly to three students who will be continuing their education in the fall. The applicant must be a child, grandchild or legal dependent of a union member. Applications for 2007 - due May 7th.

2008 Winners of the HS Jordan Scholarship:
Aaron Coney, Colton Crossley, & Stephen Kirsch
Pictured with labor leaders

• Day of Caring and Make a Difference Day - August
  Union members serve in many capacities to make both days a success in Eastern Niagara County.

Make a Difference Day

Day of Caring

The Labor Advisory Committee extends its appreciation to everyone in the labor movement who lends a helping hand in any way. Should you wish to participate in any of the above activities contact William Jakobi, AFL/CIO Community Services Liaison for the three United Ways located in Niagara County. 716-434-1190.