Volunteers from several pipe trades locals put a lot of smiles on a lot of faces this fall, during various Heat's On programs.

Volunteers from Plumbers Local 98, Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Local 190 and Pipe Fitters, Refrigeration and Service Trades Local 636, along with affiliated contractors and contractor associations, gave their time to perform pre-winter repairs on heating and plumbing in the homes of needy people.

Local 636's event was launched at the local's Training Center in Troy on Saturday, Oct. 13. It was held in conjunction with the Association of Service and Mechanical Contractors of Southeast Michigan (ASAM).

"We had over 200 volunteers and about 70 trucks, and it was a great success," said Local 636 Business Manager Jim Lapham. "We appreciate the efforts of everybody who came out and donated time. They helped a lot of people."

With the goal of keeping homeowners "warm and safe," said ASAM Associate Managing Director Muriel Versagi, "the program is an excellent example of management, labor, government, and the private sector working together to improve and benefit local communities."

In Washtenaw County, Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Local 190 took part in the 11th annual Heat's On Program, with the usual good response. There were 110 volunteers, who used 48 trucks and made 58 calls throughout the community. Three furnaces that had hazardous faulty heat exchangers were replaced.

"This was our 11th year, so we've got the program down pretty well," said Local 190 Business Manager Ron House. "Our people did a great job and we're glad to perform the service." Local 190 worked in conjunction with the Greater Michigan Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors, Inc.

More than 90 Plumbers Local 98 and Pipe Fitters Local 636 members worked with the Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors (PMC) of Detroit on Saturday, Oct. 20.

"This effort means a lot to the community, because it helps so many people," said UA International Rep. Joe Sposita. "It means a helluva lot to organized labor, too, because this shows the good we do in the community."

One of the first-time volunteers was Local 98er Tim Lieder, who was organized into the local only a few months ago. "I think it's good to do something like this," he said. "I'm glad to give my time, and help people who may not be able to help themselves with these services."

Over the last decade, the Heat's On effort through the PMC has served approximately 800 homes. The work of the volunteers is valued at an estimated $25,000 each year. Tom Storey, vice president of government affairs for the PMC, said in addition to proving trucks and repair materials, contractors this year will donate $100 in the name of each volunteer to the 911 Disaster Relief Fund.

"Thanks to all of you who came here to help," said PMC President Chris Fitch. "This service wouldn't be possible without you."

PIPE TRADES workers and contractors from UA Local 636, top, Local 190, middle, and Local 98, bottom, helped make the 2001 Heat's On/Water's Off Program another success. Local 98 members Art McCleary and Charles Beranek are in the bottom photo. Thanks to all the participating individuals and contractors for giving their time and resources.