Local Non-profit Receives Huge Outpouring of Support from National Welding Community
Workshops for Warriors is a California-based 501(c)(3) registered non-profit that helps war veterans to transition back into civilian life via their comprehensive metalworking courses and training. Their mission to provide educational and vocational training has helped many veterans gain valuable skills and experience necessary to reintegrate into the workforce. This kind of success is thanks in part to the hard work and effort put in by students and staff alike, and also to the generosity of organizations like the IWDC (Independent Welding Distributors Cooperative) that donate time, money, and supplies to the cause.
In December, the IWDC and Workshops for Warriors team had the opportunity to meet. At this time, Steve Castiglione, President and CEO of WestAir Gases & Equipment, a long-time member of the IWDC and San Diego business, presented a check for $32,292 to Workshops for Warriors president, Hernán Luis y Prado.
“The effect that Workshops for Warriors has had on the lives of so many veterans should not be underestimated. We’re confident and excited about the positive impact that this generous donation could have on the organization. The IWDC is always looking for ways to give back to the community, and I can’t think of a more deserving group than our veterans.” said Castiglione
Workshops for Warriors and WestAir both have a deep history in the San Diego welding scene. WestAir, founded in 1970, has been providing welding gases and equipment to local businesses and military bases alike. At one of their oldest branches in downtown San Diego, they hosted Workshops for Warriors in its early days, making space in the warehouse below their retail location. Since then, their relationship continues to prosper, with WestAir providing gases for their welding and other vocational courses.
The IWDC aims to create an environment where independent welding vendors can compete on a more level playing field with national brands. By encouraging their members to donate to this worthy cause, they are helping to support the future of local welding equipment suppliers. This is because many veterans that go through Workshops for Warriors end up contributing to local and regional welding operations. In this way, IWDC members are helping to ensure the future of independent welders for years to come via education and networking.
Want to learn more? Check out the organizations mentioned above:
Workshops for Warriors - https://wfw.org/
IWDC - https://www.iwdc.coop/
