IAM Local 63’s Young Machinist Committee hosted its first “Gaming for Foster Teens” event in Gladstone, Ore., raising more than $1,200 on April 14. The fundraiser brought together over 15 union members to support foster youth during the holiday season.
The event aimed to provide personalized gifts and essential items to foster teens who may otherwise feel overlooked during Christmas. Organizers said that this effort helps create a sense of connection and shows these young people that their community cares about them.
Held at the IAM District W24 Union Hall, the fundraiser featured a Mortal Kombat tournament and a Duck Hunt high-score challenge. Cash donations and competition buy-ins contributed to the total raised for the Foster Teens Christmas initiative. The annual program is led by Young Machinists who collaborate with Department of Human Services caseworkers to fulfill wish lists for local foster teens.
Blayne Massey, Matt Lock, Jordan Harmon, and Noah Ramirez organized the event with a focus on engaging younger union members through gaming. “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 attended in support of the initiative. “Our young members are stepping up in ways that truly reflect the best of our union,” said Martinez. “Their leadership, creativity, and compassion are making a real difference – not just within the IAM – but in the communities we serve.”
IAM Local 63 President Scott Lacey also praised volunteers’ efforts: “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,” said Lacey.
Jessica Deming from District W24 joined Lacey at the event as well as other supporters from across IAM Local 63.
