Wizards first Union Day shows magic of solidarity

Hundreds of at-risk youth, low-income individuals in need and homeless folks in transitional housing were able to enjoy a day at the Wizards at the first Union Day last Sunday, thanks to the generosity of labor.  Through the Community Services Agency, SMART Local 100 donated 100 tickets to UCAP, which provides solutions to alleviate poverty in Prince George's County’s diverse communities including emergency financial assistance, job training and housing for the homeless.  Alex Thompson Associates donated 100 tickets to Community of Hope, whose wide-ranging programs address the array of challenges faced by homeless and low-income families with children in DC, including meeting the primary healthcare needs of the un- and underinsured, providing stable homes for homeless families, and mentors and tutors to work with the children, to help them overcome the instability created by homelessness. “I am just so thrilled and thankful that we have such generous unions, union vendors, and individuals to help CSA connect with sister agencies in the community,” said CSA Executive Director Kathleen McKirchy.  “ Labor is all about caring, sharing and making life better for workers and neighbors, and SMART 100 and Alex Thompson Associates really stepped up to the 3-point line and nailed it with this event.” Other funds raised through ticket sales will go to CSA’s Emergency Assistance Fund for union members in need. 
​photo: Community of Hope mentor Rohan Chaudhry and his mentee; photo by Lauren Cranman/Community of Hope

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