National Award to Ron Gettlefinger: Brennan's Speech

These are the comments that I gave at the UAW Constitutional Convention on Thursday June 15, 2006.

Thank you. It's an honor to be here to present one of United Way's highest honors--the Joseph A. Beirne Community Services Award.

United Way nationally has honored 35 individuals with this award since 1977.

The award is named for Joseph A. Beirne who, among other things, was president of the Communication Workers of America and the first chairman of the AFL-CIO.

Joseph Beirne was also the first Labor representative to serve as Chair of the Board of Governors at United Way of America.

Today, the United Way of America's Joseph A. Beirne Community Services Award goes to Ron Gettlefinger, President of the UAW.

Ron's involvement with United Way and the community-at-large goes back thirty years. Ron is currently a member of the United Way for Southeastern Michigan's Board of Directors and served as Chair of the 2004 Torch Drive Campaign. Ron is the highest ranking labor leader to lead the United Way campaign in the United States. In 2004, through his leadership, the campaign exceeded its goal of $64.5 million --despite the difficult economy that Southeastern Michigan is facing.

Beyond United Way, Ron has served as the Michigan chair of the March of Dimes Walk America for the past 2 years --- raising over $3 million dollars.

But if you asked me to describe Ron, this is what I would tell you after working with him in community for the past two years.

Ron won't take a meeting @ 8:00 am when you can meet at 6:00 am instead--that is to ensure that time isn't taken away from work of the UAW membership.

Ron won't just show up for a media interview on the day 40 wheel chair ramps are being built. Rather, he'll go build the ramps for the day and let the media come see the UAW membership at work in the neighborhoods.

Ron won't throw out the first pitch at the Detroit Tiger's game. Instead, he'll help a disabled child to the mound so she could have that thrill.

Ron won't ever seek out the head table, but will always find the table where UAW membership is sitting.

And I learned on the campaign trail-- he won't take "no" for an answer when "yes"
is still a possibility.

Ron won't accept an individual award unless one is absolutely clear --- that he receives recognition on behalf of the good works of all UAW members.

Ron, you do what you say and say what you mean.

You work to ensure that justice resides in community and that community does what is just.

You don't tolerate accomodation when it is particapation that is needed.

Ron, on behalf of the 1,400 United Ways across the country -- I am proud to present to you and the entire membership of UAW --- THE JOSEPH A. BEIRNE COMMUNITY SERVICES AWARD