The LHSWM was organized as an all voluntary effort to raise money to build a stunning work of public art, the "Spirit of Solidarity National Immigrant and Labor Monument." Organized in 1999, it raised a stunning $1.2 million, taking 15 years. SOS is located adjacent to the Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids, MI. City Mayor George Heartwell dedicated the bronze sculpture and fountain on April 19, 2007 on the 97th anniversary of the Great Grand Rapids Furniture Strike of 1911 before a large audience at the workday morning event. Esteemed guests included Owen Bieber, UAW Emeritus president, a representative of President Ford, Roberto Chenlo, Argentine born sculptor and former G.R. furniture worker, Jay Egan, President of CWA Local 4034 and Director of the Monument Committee, Michael Johnston founder of the Labor Heritage Society of West Michigan, and several others. The monument was erected to remember the courage and solidarity of the four main immigrant groups that shaped the city. The entire fund raising process was almost entirely done by volunteers. Expenses were limited to actual site design, Progressive AE, (who won a national award for it) construction, travel expenses of voluntary fund raisers, publicity and professional advisor fees. An outstanding organization of dedicated, motivated folks. No full time staff at any time. Wise use of donor money. Less than 2% in administrative cost. Role model for other non-profits.
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Nonprofit Overview
Causes: Arts & Culture, Historical Organizations
Mission: To bring together individuals and/or organizations to discuss and review the contributions of organized labor to society. To preserve the history of organized labor in west michigan for the benefit of future generations.
Programs: Maintain monument built to recognize organized labor in west michigan