9/11 Memorial/Museum

Illinois fire department 9/11 Ceremony and the opening of their new museum. The Local #265 Labor Management Cooperative Committee (John Boske) partnered with Gengler Lowney Laser Works (Jack Gengler), a signatory contractor with Local 265, to contribute the two stainless steel plaques embedded in the floor of the Carol Stream, Illinois Fire Department 911 Memorial/Museum. The fire inspector (Gary Rasmussen) got the idea when he was doing a yearly inspection at Local 265 and saw a stainless steel plaque that Gengler Lowney Laser Works had also done. (You Can view more photos here)

Volunteer efforts in rehabbing the Lockport VFW Post 5788

SMART Local 265, volunteering with Will/Grundy County Building Trades and the Home Depot, to revitalize the VFW Post 5788 in Lockport. The facility was in desperate need of a face lift and a lot of basic maintenance.

The initiative was spear headed by THE HOME DEPOT FOUNDATION, who reached out to all of us and explained the need. Once again, SMART Local 265 and many other Local Unions from Will/Grundy building trades stepped up to the challenge.

“I wanted to take the opportunity to thank you and your entire team for your volunteer efforts in rehabbing the Lockport VFW Post 5788.  The results were absolutely stunning and we have heard from the entire community how amazed they were by the transformation.  This project absolutely could not have been completed without your support and the support of the entire Will-Grundy Trades Council. I have attached a PowerPoint of the before and after’s of the project; unbelievable this was done in one short week. Thank you again for your dedication and passion for helping Veterans.  If I can ever be of any service to you or any Veterans who are in need please let me know.  It was an absolute pleasure to work with you and your team and we hope to partner on projects with you in the future.”

Elizabeth Armour
Store Manager, The Home Depot
Homer Glen, IL #1989