On October 4, 2025, members of IAM Local 778, with support from IAM District 70 and the IAM Local 839 Veterans Committee, held their first annual Ruck-N-Rolls road march in Kansas City, Missouri. The event was part of the IAM Local 778 H.E.L.P.S. program.
Participants carried backpacks and wagons filled with food donations as they made their way to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) community center and tiny home village. The VCP provides a range of services for local veterans in need, including medical, dental, and mental health care. It also connects veterans to Veteran Service Officers who assist them in navigating VA benefits and resources.
The VCP offers additional support by providing facilities for veterans’ pets, such as a dog park, a dog wash station, and access to a volunteer veterinarian. These amenities are designed to help ensure that both veterans and their animals receive proper care.
IAM Union members involved in the event highlighted the importance of supporting those who have served in the military. The organizers expressed appreciation for Carlos Rentas for his role in inviting participants and inspiring involvement.
“IAM Local 778 is exemplifying why we created the IAM Midwest Territory H.E.L.P.S. program,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “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 collaboration among union members while reinforcing their commitment to supporting military veterans within their communities.
