USW Local Union 105 in Bettendorf, Iowa and its committees – Next Gen, Civil & Human Rights, SOAR 11-4 and Women of Steel – raffled off a quilt made from Steelworker and union-themed T-shirts to benefit local, homeless veterans.
The committees raised $4,015 for Bridging the Gap, a non-profit organization that assists homeless veterans, giving them the chance to “renew their spirit, health and overall sense of well-being” through stand downs where they can take care of personal hygiene, get clean clothes, enjoy warm meals, and receive medical and dental care. 
Amber St. Clair and Jen Stablein, members of the Women of Steel Committee, are volunteers with Bridging the Gap. When they were brainstorming ideas for a new service project, this charity’s mission seemed like a perfect fit because the local represents many veterans.
“The local supports so many causes and this is just one that we knew we could step in and help with,” said Amber.
Members donated their Steelworker gear and union-themed shirts, then Beverly Rosenbalm, a quilt maker in Bettendorf, handstitched the quilt together. Each committee pitched in to help make the fundraiser a huge success.
“I thought it was really awesome that people were so generous and willing to help out the homeless vets,” said Amber.
This project is just one of the many our union’s amazing members do every day to give back to our communities. If you or your local is doing good things in your community, we want to hear about them. Share your story with us at usw.org/uswcares and don’t forget to use the #USWCares hashtag when you post your stories on social media.