On October 4, 2025, members of IAM Local 778, supported by IAM District 70 and the IAM Local 839 Veterans Committee, organized their first annual Ruck-N-Rolls road march in Kansas City, Missouri. The event is part of the IAM Local 778 H.E.L.P.S. initiative.
Participants carried backpacks and wagons filled with food donations as they marched to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) community center and its tiny home village. The VCP offers a variety of services for local veterans, including medical, dental, and mental health care. It also provides access to Veteran Service Officers who help veterans navigate benefits and resources.
The VCP distinguishes itself by offering support not only to veterans but also to their pets. The facility includes amenities such as a dog park, a dog wash station, and access to a volunteer veterinarian.
The event highlighted the commitment of IAM Union’s veteran community to supporting former service members. Organizers acknowledged Carlos Rentas for his role in inviting participants and inspiring involvement in the project.
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli commented on the significance of the event: “IAM Local 778 is exemplifying why we created the IAM Midwest Territory H.E.L.P.S. program,” said 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.”
