Guide to the ILGWU. Retiree Service Department. David Dubinsky papers

Founded in 1900 by local union delegates representing about 2,000 members in cities in the northeastern United States, the ILGWU grew in geographical scope, membership size, political influence to become one of the most powerful forces in American organized labor by mid-century. Representing workers in the women's garment industry, the ILGWU worked to improve working and living conditions of its members through collective bargaining agreements, training programs, health care facilities, cooperative housing, educational opportunities, and other efforts. In 1995, the ILGWU merged with the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union (ACTWU) to form the Union of Needletrades, Industrial and Textile Employees (UNITE).

The Retiree Services Department was established in October 1966 to provide services to ILGWU members once they retired from the workforce. David Dubinsky served as the founding director of the department, holding the position from retirement from the ILGWU presidency in 1966 until his death in 1982.

The department offered a variety of resources to retirees, including social, recreational and cultural activities, access to a special assistance fund, retirees clubs, and retirement planning services. Local and regional Retiree Clubs were established or further supported through the International's General Office, offering courses and organizing daytrips and other excursions. Through the Retiree Services Department, longtime ILGWU members who found themselves in need could apply for support from the Special Assistance Fund. The department also oversaw the Friendly Visitors Project, which trained retirees to visit other retirees in their home, hospital, or nursing homes. In addition to offering companionship, visitors offered guidance on matters such as Social Security, health care, union benefits, and housing.

The Retiree Services Department continued its work through 1995, when the ILGWU merged with ACTWU to form UNITE. In 1986, it developed the Options for Older Workers to assist workers displaced or shortly to be, plant closings. By the time of the merger, the department had expanded its services and offerings, including English-as-a-Second Language (ESL), an exercise program, acting and arts classes, and volunteer opportunities. The program also helped with retirement planning, and retirees were involved in legislative and election activities.

This collection contains correspondence, memoranda, vouchers, and other material that document the work of the Department of Retiree Services, including requests submitted to the department for funds in support of retiree groups and related activities, and notification of decisions of whether to fund these requests and award amount. Also included are collected printed material and drafts of department publications.