The Local Unions that make up the Central States Conference, in collaboration with the Central States Contractors Association, hosted two events in support of the Breath of Life Foundation's mission to combat mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
The 10th annual Motorcycle and Car Rally took place Aug. 19 in Dayton, Ohio, followed a month later by the 14th annual Breath of Life Golf Outing on Sept. 18 in Daniels, W. VA. 
The Breath of Life Foundation was established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization. Its mission is to advance research and education aimed at finding a cure for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
The two fundraisers raised over $100,000 this year, with the Motorcycle and Car Rally bringing in more than $15,000 and the golf outing generating more than $9,000. The events drew participants from across the country.
Since its inception 14 years ago, the combined efforts of labor and management within the Central States Conference have raised over $1 million to support causes that impact the Insulators Union more than nearly any other group.
HFIAW Local 50 Columbus/Dayton Business Manager Dan Poteet, a Breath of Life Trustee, praised the consistent growth of the Motorcycle and Car Rally.
"Every year, this event gets bigger and bigger," he said. "It's another way to support those whose lives have been affected by mesothelioma."
The bike rally, which consists of live music, raffles, auctions and awards for best bike and best classic car is a time for HFIAW Brothers and Sisters to gather together, have a good time and raise money for the Breath of Life Foundation.
Local 207 Regional Abatement Business Manager Doug Ripple announced that the Breath of Life Bike and Car Rally will be at the same location on Sept. 18, 2024. 
Central States International Vice President Michael Hickey expressed his support of the annual fundraising events.
"I believe that we have so many within our organization who deal with and suffer from lung-related illnesses. The Breath of Life Bike and Golf Events are our way of raising money to help those families in need and, hopefully, to find a cure one day," he said. "As for the (golf outing), this event allows our contractors, Local Unions and professionals to come together to raise awareness, raise money and honor those who came before us and suffered from mesothelioma and asbestos."
He added that the Breath of Life Foundation recently expanded its support efforts to assist families in need.
Breath of Life Trustee and United Healthcare Vice President of Sales Operations and Strategy Kim Cicero is grateful for the consistent support from the Central States Conference and their contractor's association.
"Their generosity is helping us to make a difference in the lives of those affected by mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases," she said. "Be on the lookout for next year's (golf) tournament again at Glade Springs in beautiful Daniels, West Virginia. And dust off your bowling shows! We've added some friendly competition on the lanes."
The Central States Conference Local Unions and the Central States Contractors Association are committed to supporting the Breath of Life Foundation and its mission to find a cure for mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases. These two annual fundraisers provide a great way to get involved and make a difference."