On October 4, 2025, members of IAM Local 778, joined by supporters from IAM District 70 and the IAM Local 839 Veterans Committee, participated in the first annual Ruck-N-Rolls road march in Kansas City, Missouri. The event was organized as part of the IAM Local 778 H.E.L.P.S. program.
Participants carried backpacks and wagons filled with food donations on a route leading to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) community center and tiny home village. The VCP provides a variety of services for veterans in need, including medical, dental, and mental health care. It also connects veterans with Veteran Service Officers who help them access VA benefits and resources.
The VCP is notable for its comprehensive approach to supporting veterans. In addition to its main services, it offers amenities such as a dog park, dog wash station, and volunteer veterinarian services to ensure that veterans’ pets are cared for.
IAM Local 778 expressed appreciation for Carlos Rentas’s invitation and inspiration for the event. The initiative highlighted efforts within the union’s veteran community to support those who have served in the military.
Sam Cicinelli, General Vice President of IAM Midwest Territory, said: “IAM Local 778 is exemplifying why we created the IAM Midwest Territory H.E.L.P.S. program. Our members are ready and enthusiastic about stepping up for efforts they care about. Supporting and honoring veterans has become a core value of our union, in addition to service to the general community. Our territory and membership is happy to uplift veterans in our communities, and Local 778 has admirably organized what will be an event that members look forward to every year.”
The event demonstrated ongoing commitment from IAM Union members toward helping local veterans through both direct aid and broader community engagement.
