As the sun streamed in through the windows of the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans early one Saturday morning in July, members of the IBEW Local 701 RENEW Committee were inside, working to upgrade the decades-old fluorescent lighting throughout the building before the heat of the day.
“IBEW 701 understood our challenges and provided the solution,” stated Tom Galassini, Finance and Operations Officer at MSHV. “They provided pro bono labor and arranged for a materials donation of LED fixtures from Meade Electric to upgrade the lighting at our administrative building. What a difference! The new lighting is consistent, more environmentally friendly, and is likely to lower our energy bills. Big wins all the way around! Our staff is amazed and thrilled with the upgraded fixtures, and we are extremely grateful for the assistance provided by IBEW 701, which has been a generous partner with MSHV for many years.”
“We are so happy with the results,” added Executive Director Christine Lewis. “I am often here late at night, working under these beautiful new lights that are brighter and just fantastic! We cannot say thank you enough; this electrical work has vastly improved our facility.”
MSHV’s mission is to empower at-risk veterans and their families to become self-sufficient, productive members of their communities. “My brother is in the Army, that’s why I wanted to help today. I wanted to give back, to say thank you to all who have served,” said apprentice Nick Johansen.
As the day ended, Galassini presented each member of the team with a commemorative challenge coin from MSHV, symbolizing brotherhood, respect, and gratitude.
For more information on the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, please visit helpaveteran.org.
Pictured L to R: John Roti, J.D. Roti, Anthony Roti, Steve Koenig, Jim Pokorny, Tom Galassini with MSHV, Leo Serna, Thomas Imburgia, Martin Drew, Tyler Drew, Nick Johansen, Robert Majeski, Drew Petry, Ben Franzen, Todd Imburgia.
