Category: Charitable Corner
In Loving Memory of Donald H. Wolff II
SMART-TD mourns the loss of Brother Donald H. Wolff II, a devoted railroad professional and Local 903 Chairperson of the Florida East Coast (FEC) railroad, whose unwavering integrity, leadership, and dedication to his fellow union members left a profound impact across the industry. Remembered as a man of unmatched character, Don’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the causes he supported, and the strength with which he served.
Union officers go the extra mile, but Brian McWilliams literally went 65 of them!
Gary Railway General Chairperson Brian McWilliams of Local 1383 exemplified grit and dedication by running 65 miles in 24-plus hours to raise over $3,700 for Portage High School’s athletic and music programs. Read on to see how his extraordinary feat highlights the values of perseverance, community support, and unwavering commitment that define the SMART-TD spirit.
SMART-TD Stands With Brother Kilmar Abrego Garcia
The SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD) expresses strong support for Brother Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a SMART union apprentice who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador despite legal protections and is now imprisoned in dangerous conditions. We are asking SMART-TD members and the public to support Kilmar and his family through donations and by raising awareness to demand his return.
UPDATE: Arrangements Announced for Brother Steve Bryant’s Celebration of Life
UPDATE: Arrangements announced for the Celebration of Life for Local Chairperson from 1518, Steve Bryant.
UPDATE: New Information Available on California Wildfire Relief For Members
As the devastating wildfires continue to burn in California, this catastrophe is likely far from over. Read on to learn about important updates to applying for assistance from SMART-TD’s Disaster Relief Fund, including what criteria and information is needed to receive help.
Union support available for California wildfire victims
California is once again battling devastating wildfires, and many of our SMART-TD members are on the frontlines, both as victims and first responders. Read on to learn how to receive help from SMART-TD's Disaster Relief Fund if you've been affected or how to donate to the cause of helping our brothers and sisters in their time of need.
Local #823 member killed in on-duty collision
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of SMART-TD member and Union Pacific Conductor Phillip Araujo. As recently reported, he and his engineer, Clay Burt, lost their lives when their train collided with a tractor-trailer in Pecos City, Texas. Brother Ryan Monts of BLET Division 212 has started a GoFundMe account to support the families of Araujo and Brother Burt.
Tennessee Local rallies to aid members amid hurricane flooding
After flooding from Hurricane Helene devastated the town of Erwin, Tennessee, Brother Jason Caldwell (Local 1162) refused to sit back and watch his community suffer. He and his Local stepped up to organize much-needed resources, from financial assistance to generators.