IAM Mechanics' Local 701 Benefits
Donation protected
My name is Wally Emerson, I have been an Automotive Technician for 23 years. I work at a Chrysler dealership based in Crystal Lake, IL. I am an IAM member and also a Trustee on the Local 701 Executive Board. I am currently on strike with my Union Brothers and Sisters fighting for a fair contract. In solidarity of striking IAM Mechanics’ Local 701 Members in the Chicago and outlying areas we have put together this GoFundMe page. The only Federally protected rights these Mechanics have is to withhold their labor in order to achieve a fair contract from the New Car Dealer Committee. Several of the over 1,900 striking Technicians have expressed concerns that when their insurance runs out they will not be able to afford Cobra payments. As we all know, Health Insurance is extremely important. We have started this fund to assist those Members that are in financial need and will allow them to make those payments to keep their insurance for their families. These funds will be used for those striking Technicians covered under the Standard Automotive Agreement (SAA) of IAM Mechanics’ Local 701. 
All proceeds will be primarily used for insurance and medical costs. When the striking Technicians return to work and a contract has been ratified, this fundraising effort will come to an end. Any and all funds raised through this GoFundMe campaign that were not needed or disbursed, will be directly donated into the IAM Mechanics’ local 701 Neediest Family Fund. This page was put together and will be governed by Rank and File Members of the SAA. Requests will need to be verified and approved by a Committee to ensure proper Fund disbursements. Understanding the importance of this job action to improve working conditions within this Industry, as well as protecting the rights of Union members and their struggles they encounter, Mechanics Local 701 has received phone calls from all over the United States in support of these striking Technicians. Please consider helping these workers fight for a fair contract by donating. Thank you.
All proceeds will be primarily used for insurance and medical costs. When the striking Technicians return to work and a contract has been ratified, this fundraising effort will come to an end. Any and all funds raised through this GoFundMe campaign that were not needed or disbursed, will be directly donated into the IAM Mechanics’ local 701 Neediest Family Fund. This page was put together and will be governed by Rank and File Members of the SAA. Requests will need to be verified and approved by a Committee to ensure proper Fund disbursements. Understanding the importance of this job action to improve working conditions within this Industry, as well as protecting the rights of Union members and their struggles they encounter, Mechanics Local 701 has received phone calls from all over the United States in support of these striking Technicians. Please consider helping these workers fight for a fair contract by donating. Thank you.
Organizer
Wally Emerson
Organizer
Carol Stream, IL