OKLAHOMA CITY – Machinists’ Union, IAMAW Local 850 is hosting an event this month for those in need in the Oklahoma City area. The union, in partnership with Oklahoma City nonprofit, Upward Transitions, has recruited a team of professional hair stylists and barbers who will volunteer their time to give free haircuts to adults and children who cannot afford them.
On Friday, June 20, 2025, anyone in need in the area is encouraged to come to the Machinists’ Union Lodge at 2401 South Harvey Avenue in Oklahoma City starting at noon and continuing until 4:00 p.m. for free haircuts, free hygiene care kits, and a free hot meal.
EMBARK is holding a third Friday free fare day for all buses, making it easier for those without access to transportation to travel to the event. The closest bus stop is route 11 stop 3817 at S Robinson Avenue and SW 23rd Street. The Union Lodge is 1 block west of the bus stop on SW 23rd Street at the corner of S Harvey Avenue. A map of the location as well as a flyer with information about the event is available at www.upwardtransitions.org/gears-and-shears-2025.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) was founded 130 years ago and has grown to represent workers from a diverse spectrum of industries and personal backgrounds. With nearly 600,000 active and retired members, the IAM is one of the largest and most diverse labor unions in North America. From Boeing and Lockheed Martin to United Airlines and Harley-Davidson. The union has been able to bargain for increased job security, higher wages and improved enefits for its members.
“Our Gears and Shears outreach event is about more than just a haircut,” said Jason Kunkel, IAM District 171 Organizer. “It’s about taking action and upholding a core value of our union – that ALL people deserve dignity, inside the workplace and out.”
Through its Community Outreach Program, Upward Transitions prevents families with minor children and seniors from losing their housing through eviction due to unpaid rent and utilities. The agency also assists those experiencing homelessness with obtaining their identifying documents, such as birth certificates and state IDs, making it possible to obtain employment, housing, and social services. 2025 marks Upward Transitions’ 100th year serving the community.
Periann Pulliam, Chief Executive Officer of Upward Transitions shared, “The members of the IAMAW Local 850 are long-time, generous supporters of Upward Transitions’ mission. We are grateful, on behalf of our clients and our staff, for their added generosity with this special event for anyone in need in the community.”
Those who would like more information about the IAM Union can visit their national website at www.goiam.org or reach out via email at Jason.kunkel@dl171.org or call District Organizer Jason Kunkel at 619-204-2520.
To learn more about Upward Transitions, go to www.upwardtransitions.org or contact Conna Dewart, Development and Public Relations Manager at 405-232-5507 or cdewart@upwardtransitions.org.
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