In Moncton, New Brunswick, IBEW Local 1555 is proving that giving back can be both meaningful and fun. Through a growing partnership with the United Way and support from local businesses, the union has turned community engagement into a core part of its identity.
“We believe it’s important to give back to our community,” said Jeff Morash, Business Manager of Local 1555. “We’re proud to use the IBEW name to make a real difference.”
One standout event is the annual trivia night hosted at Tire Shack Brewing Co. What began as a social idea from the union’s social committee quickly became a sold-out success. With nearly 100 attendees in its first year, the event raised over $3,000, growing to more than $3,800 the following year. Tire Shack donated the venue and equipment, while local businesses contributed auction prizes ranging from golf passes to custom embroidered jackets donated by the local.
“Trivia night is about connecting with our community,” said IBEW 1555 Membership Development Representative James Hoffe, who helped organize the event. “It’s not just for IBEW members. We invited everyone, and the turnout was incredible.”
Beth Crawford, Resource Development Manager at United Way of Greater Moncton and Southeastern New Brunswick, has worked closely with the local. “Our partnership continues to grow. They’ve supported our golf tournament, trivia night, and other initiatives.” Last year alone, United Way changed 67,000 lives in the New Brunswick region. “Support from partners like IBEW 1555 helps make this type of impact possible.”
Another highlight came during the IBEW Canada Membership Development Conference in June. Local 1555 hosted a community BBQ that brought together IBEW representatives from across the country and welcomed more than 150 local workers. The team served hundreds of burgers and hotdogs, working behind the grill to give back to the Moncton construction community.
Representatives from the United Way were invited to the BBQ, creating another opportunity to strengthen local connections. In a show of generosity, workers attending the BBQ collectively donated over $300 to the United Way, helping support even more people in the area.
IBEW’s commitment to giving is part of a larger national effort of IBEW local unions across Canada. “The IBEW nationally is part of Thanks a Million, which recognizes partners who raise at least $1 million annually,” said Crawford. “We’re so happy to have that partnership with our local IBEW here in Moncton and at other chapters across Canada.”
“Our relationship with United Way is strong,” Morash said. “We’re proud of the work we’re doing, and there’s more to come.”
About IBEW Local 1555
Chartered in Moncton on March 1, 1947, IBEW Local 1555 represents skilled electricians throughout the Moncton and surrounding area. The local is committed to safe working conditions, ongoing training, and building strong partnerships with signatory contractors all while giving back to their community.
About United Way Greater Moncton & Southeastern New Brunswick
United Way GMSNB supports and invests in local programs that make a measurable impact, from poverty reduction to youth success and accessible transit. They work alongside community experts to ensure resources target real needs and drive lasting change.