Smith in foreground, Dennis in background, wearing blue

Inspired by what they saw and learned at previous TNBC Conventions, LaDrew Dennis and Steven Smith, both members of Local 822 in Norfolk, Va., have begun the process of forming a chapter of the TNBC at their local union.

The group, tentatively called the Hampton Road Chapter, is expected to be fully established within a year’s time and was given kudos at the 35th annual TNBC Convention where TNBC Vice Chair Harvey Jackson announced Dennis and Smith’s plans.

“I applaud LaDrew and Steven for stepping up to the challenge and forming their own TNBC chapter,” Jackson said. “The TNBC encourages political action and African-American participation within the Teamsters Union—and that’s exactly what these two members of Local 822 are doing.”

Dennis and Smith say they hope the new chapter will bring more Teamsters together.

“I attended my first TNBC conference last year and I was so inspired by the energy that I knew I had to bring this to my own local. The TNBC is something I believe in and it’s something I always wanted to be part of,” Smith said. “I’m excited about serving the members of my local as well as getting involved in the community.”

Once established, the chapter will work to promote the goals of the TNBC, which include education, empowerment, political involvement and activism. Dennis said Local 822’s TNBC chapter will also work directly with the community to inspire, educate and empower area youth.

“We really want to connect with and be part of the community. We both feel a strong need to give back and there’s no better way to do that than to mentor youth,” Dennis said.

To learn more about or join the TNBC Hampton Road Chapter, contact Dennis or Smith at TNBC822@yahoo.com.