As summer begins to wind down, SMART Local 28 is preparing to bring approximately 1,000 union members and their family members together for an afternoon centered on fun, fellowship and giving back.
The 2026 SMART Local 28 Family Picnic will be held Saturday, September 19, at Krucker’s Grove in Pomona, New York. With food, refreshments, activities and prizes planned throughout the day, the picnic will give members and their families an opportunity to step away from their busy schedules, enjoy the final days of summer and spend meaningful time together.
More than a social event, the SMART Local 28 Family Picnic reflects an important part of union life: the relationships that connect members beyond the workplace.
Strengthening the Connections Behind the Union
Union members work side by side, advocate for one another and share a commitment to protecting the future of working families. Events like the Family Picnic create space for members to deepen those relationships while giving spouses, children and other family members an opportunity to become part of the larger union community.
Social connection matters. A casual afternoon together allows longtime members to reconnect, gives newer members an opportunity to meet their union brothers and sisters, and helps families build friendships of their own. Children can play, families can relax and members can enjoy one another’s company outside the demands of the job.
“As union members, we know that solidarity is built through shared experiences and strong relationships,” said Brian Nigro, Assistant Business Manager of SMART Local 28. “The Family Picnic gives our members and their families a day to relax, have fun and connect with one another. It is important that our families feel included in the union community and understand how much we value their support.”
That sense of belonging is especially meaningful at the end of summer, when families are preparing for the return of school routines, fall activities and another busy season. The picnic offers one more chance to slow down, enjoy time outdoors and celebrate the people who help make the union strong.
Supporting United Way of Long Island
The event will also make a difference beyond the picnic grounds. Sponsorships help reduce event costs for Local 28 member families, while net proceeds will benefit United Way of Long Island.
United Way of Long Island brings together people, community partners and resources to create lasting change across the region. Its work focuses on expanding opportunities for young people, improving health and well-being, strengthening financial security and helping build more resilient communities.
The organization and its partners connect Long Islanders with essential services and support in areas including education, workforce readiness, housing, food access, healthcare and financial stability. Its 211 Long Island service also helps individuals and families locate health and human-service resources when they need assistance. Supporting the Family Picnic therefore helps SMART Local 28 extend its impact into the wider Long Island community.
An Opportunity for Sponsors to Stand With Labor
SMART Local 28 is inviting businesses, professional-service firms and community partners to support the Family Picnic through sponsorships ranging from $750 to $5,000.
For participating organizations, sponsorship is an opportunity to demonstrate a genuine commitment to union members, working families and the communities in which they live. Sponsors will help make an enjoyable and affordable family event possible while contributing to the work of United Way of Long Island.
Organizations that submit their sponsorship by September 1 will be recognized on the event banner. Available sponsorship levels include Platinum at $5,000, Copper at $3,500, Aluminum at $2,500, Stainless at $1,500, Galvanized at $1,000 and Mild Steel at $750.
The SMART Local 28 Family Picnic is a celebration of the values that hold union communities together: family, solidarity, service and shared responsibility. By becoming a sponsor, organizations can help approximately 1,000 union members and family members close out the summer with a memorable day while supporting a cause that serves families across Long Island. Organizations interested in sponsoring the event CLICK HERE
Tags: Community Wellness, Union Workers