At the IFT Convention in October, the union debuted a video showcasing members and locals who make a difference in their communities as part of the IFT's new REACH (Roots in Education. Activism. Community. Home.) program. We know every IFT member makes a difference each day for the students or citizens they serve. Through REACH, the IFT is recognizing member and local union efforts to make a difference through charitable work and volunteerism, too.

Please tell us how you, a colleague or your IFT local is reaching out in your community this holiday season or at any time of year. Send your stories, including contact information, to IFT Publications Director Amy Excell-Bailey at aexcell@ift-aft.org.

The IFT's REACH Program Recognizes IFT Members Who Are Involved in Community Activities Throughout the State

Michael McGreal and Kyle Richardson
Culinary Instructors
Joliet Junior College, AFT Local 604
Both men recently returned from a visit with First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House where they attended the launch of the Chefs Move to Schools Initiative.

Jane Camp
Faculty Member
Heartland Community College Faculty Association, Local 6038
As a result of the murder of her longtime colleague and mentor at Heartland Community College Joe McCauley, she is establishing a scholarship for the art students at Heartland that would have made McCauley proud.

Michelle Nevin
Teacher
Old Quarry Middle School, AFT Local 604
Along with many of her IFT colleagues, Nevin is raising money for the American Cancer Society in honor of a friend and fellow teacher who succumbed to a rare form of ovarian cancer.