IAM Local 63’s Young Machinist Committee hosted its first “Gaming for Foster Teens” fundraiser, bringing together more than 15 members on April 14 at the IAM District W24 Union Hall in Gladstone, Oregon. The event raised over $1,200 through cash donations and competitions including a Mortal Kombat tournament and Duck Hunt high-score challenge. All proceeds will support the Local’s Foster Teens Christmas initiative, which aims to provide personalized gifts and essential items to foster youth during the holidays.
The fundraiser reflects an ongoing effort by IAM Local 63 members to address the needs of foster teens who are often overlooked. Each year, union members collect wish lists and work directly with Department of Human Services caseworkers to ensure that teens receive items chosen specifically for them.
Blayne Massey, Matt Lock, Jordan Harmon, and Noah Ramirez organized the event as part of a new approach to member engagement. “While attending a casino fundraising event, we realized that my age group plays games differently than previous generations, moving away from traditional casino games toward computer and arcade-style gaming,” said Lock. “Growing up, we held LAN parties where we would bring gaming systems to a house and play side-by-side. The Young Machinists Committee took the concept of an LAN Party and restructured it into a fundraising format.”
IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez said: “Our young members are stepping up in ways that truly reflect the best of our union. Their leadership, creativity, and compassion are making a real difference – not just within the IAM – but in the communities we serve.” President Scott Lacey added: “What makes Foster Teens Christmas so powerful is its focus on dignity and connection. Volunteers don’t just hand out generic gifts; they make sure each teen receives something chosen specifically for them, along with the message that their community cares about them.” Lacey described how this tradition has grown over time into meaningful work involving union families and local partners.
Jessica Deming from District W24 attended alongside her husband after recently adopting a teenager herself. She said she was inspired by both the compassion shown by volunteers and by seeing firsthand how much these efforts can mean for foster youth.
