17th annual 'Labor's Night at the Races' raises thousands for United Way Greater Niagara

The Niagara Orleans Central Labor Council proudly hosted its 17th annual “Labor's Night at the Races” on Friday, June 12, at Ransomville Speedway, bringing together organized labor, community partners and local supporters for an evening of racing, fellowship and philanthropy.

The event featured a lively tent party and a full card of racing, drawing one of the largest crowds in the event's history. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers and sponsors, nearly 900 Chiavetta's chicken dinners were served throughout the evening.

The Niagara Orleans Central Labor Council extends its sincere appreciation to presenting sponsor, Highmark; and associate sponsors Lewis & Lewis, Maxwell Murphy, USW District 4, IBEW Local 2104, and Niagara Falls Redevelopment LLC for their generous support of this year's event. We also extend our heartfelt thank you to all our program patrons.

Volunteers from labor affiliates, Friends of Labor, and United Way Greater Niagara worked tirelessly to make the event a success. From setting up tables and hundreds of chairs, to operating a well-oiled food assembly line, taking tickets, distributing beverages, managing cleanup efforts, and everything in between, every volunteer played a vital role in creating an unforgettable evening.

Special recognition goes to volunteers from Iron Workers Local 9, IBEW Local 237, IBEW Local 2104, UAW Local 686, USW Local 9434, United Steelworkers District 4 staff, CWA Local 1115, UAW 2571, USW 277, Wilson Teachers’ Association as well as United Way Greater Niagara President and CEO Andrea Gray and Board Chair Mayor Austin Tylec. Their commitment and hard work exemplified the spirit of community service that defines organized labor.

The Labor Council also expresses its gratitude to Ransomville Speedway for its continued partnership in hosting this annual tradition and to Chiavetta's for once again providing the outstanding chicken dinner that has become a hallmark of the event.

Since its inception, “Labor's Night at the Races” has raised an impressive $241,384.69 in support of United Way Greater Niagara. The organization invests in foundational youth programming and critical community initiatives throughout Niagara County and the City of Tonawanda, helping improve lives and strengthen local communities.

"Labor has a long and proud tradition of giving back to the communities where our members live and work," Labor Council President Jim Briggs said. " ‘Labor's Night at the Races’ is a shining example of the core values of the labor movement – solidarity, service and community."

New this year was a gift card raffle benefiting the Labor Council's Union Polar Plunge team, which supports Special Olympics New York. The raffle raised $2,005, providing an early boost toward the team's fundraising efforts ahead of the Union Polar Plunge scheduled for Dec. 3.

Following another successful year, organizers are already looking forward to the 18th annual “Labor's Night at the Races,” scheduled for June 2027.