I've been a UAW member since 1994. Within the last 2 years I have just now realized the importance of getting involved. The UAW is not only beneficial to it's members, but to the communities as well.

I have found purpose and my passion with being involved and an active member within the UAW. I am now apart of something that is bigger than myself. I am being a service to others and it's a wonderful feeling.

When I first hired in I wasn't educated about the UAW. I just thought, this is a good job, with good benefits, "I'm in." The first eight years I didn't even know where my local was, who was the president, or anything pertaining to the UAW. Only until after my job had been outsourced and I was placed somewhere else, thank God, did I decide to educate myself on what the UAW was all about. With encouragement from a good friend, I started taking classes at the Region, and decided to run for an elected position. I have devoted time and effort to encouraging and educating others on what the UAW is all about.

I now know that I am not just a member but it is a part of my job to be active and involved. I encourage others to do the same. I suggest get involved by going to meetings, letting you voice be heard, and volunteering some of your time.