Iron Workers Local 7 donate $8,000 to Higashi School for Autistic Children

Boston, MA The Iron Workers Local 7 Retiree Association donated more than $8,000 to the Boston Higashi School for Autistic Children. Dedicated Local 7 members raised the funds during the union’s 18^th Annual Golf Tournament.

The donation was presented at the union’s hall in South Boston where strong member participation translated into much-needed support for the school.

“We are incredibly grateful to Local 7 for their generous support,” said Deborah Donovan, principal of the Boston Higashi School. 

Founded over 30 years ago, the Boston Higashi School’s mission is to help children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder learn to reach their full potential, providing a broad curriculum that includes academics, art, music, physical education, technology, and social education. Students take on challenges, learn to overcome obstacles, and gain confidence from their own success.

“This donation allows our students to develop a love for learning so they may fully enjoy their family, community, and all that life has to offer,” said Donovan. “As each student grows and learns, their personality and individual character matures, allowing them to benefit from, and most importantly, contribute to society as adults.”

“It is a privilege to partner with the Higashi School as they provide such critical support and educational services for children with autism,” said Local 7 business manager Michael Hess.

Signs of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated developmental delays can appear even earlier, and often, it can be diagnosed as early as age 18 months. Research shows that early intervention leads to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism.

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 44 children in the United States.

Iron Workers Local 7 represents over 3,600 members specializing in bridge, structural, ornamental, reinforcing, pre-engineered metal buildings, industrial maintenance, architectural, heavy rigging, and welding across New England. We've built our region for over 120 years, including top medical facilities, universities, sports stadiums, historic buildings, and much more.