Working people across the United States have stepped up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our regular Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we'll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
On April 15, the Hawaii State AFL-CIO and Labor Community Services Program held their annual Labor of Love event, which selects a Title 1 public school to support annually. This year, more than 300 volunteers from 23 unions and teachers, staff, students, businesses, and community partners volunteered at Dole Intermediate School.
Hawaii State AFL-CIO President Randy Perreira (AFSCME) said: “At a time when our community is facing ever-increasing costs and new challenges, Hawaii’s labor unions remain committed to fighting to raise living conditions and improve the quality of life for all citizens. Our Labor of Love project is where all unions bring their talents and resources together to improve a school in need. Today our union members proudly demonstrate that labor unions in Hawaii are more relevant than ever as we showcase our skills and commitment as valuable members of our local community.”
When students returned to school, they found new benches, lunch picnic tables, fresh paint on portions of their campus, new AC units, a laundry room for those who do not have regular access to wash their clothes, a courtyard area outside of the cafeteria, and an updated bathroom. The estimated value of the contribution to Dole Intermediate School is $80,000.