United Way Hosts Trapshoot and BBQ Fundraiser

Our Daily Show Interview! 18th Annual Labor & United Way at Winchester in East Alton 4-17!

EAST ALTON - Community members can support United Way at an upcoming trapshoot and barbecue fundraiser.

On Friday, April 17, 2026, United Way will host their 18th annual labor fundraiser at Winchester Shooting Facilities in East Alton. The shooting starts at 8 a.m. and goes until 11:30 a.m., and shooters must arrive by 10 a.m. to participate. It costs $85 for two rounds, which includes the barbecue immediately following the shoot at Machinists Bluff City Lodge 660 in East Alton. All proceeds go toward United Way’s work.

“The needs in our community are so great,” said Rose McCowan, Director of Labor Engagement with United Way of Greater St. Louis. “The labor movement and United Way have always been rooted in solidarity and service, standing together to support working families and strengthening our communities. This event embodies our values. We’re talking about bringing people together in a long-standing tradition of fellowship while supporting United Way’s essential programs that positively impact our neighbors.”

Registration closes on April 9, 2026. You can register online or by calling 618-509-6204 or 314-539-4191.

There are several sponsorship opportunities for organizations and businesses that want to go a step further in supporting United Way. Sponsors receive recognition at the event, and certain levels also receive free participation.

“We’re currently seeking community support to help make this event successful,” McCowan said. “Currently, we’re looking for sponsors to help support the fundraiser financially. We’re looking for participants to come out and actually participate in the event. And then we’re looking for gift donations for our raffle and prize giveaways.”

Shotguns and ammunition will be provided, though shooters can bring their own equipment if they’d like.

McCowan promises chicken, porksteaks and bratwurst at the barbecue, as well as plenty of Anheuser-Busch products to “quench our thirst.” She shared that her favorite part of the day is welcoming out retirees and other workers who haven’t seen each other in a long time for a fun day of shooting, eating and enjoying themselves.

Some organizations, clubs, unions and businesses also use the day as a team-building exercise. McCowan emphasized that whatever the situation is, it’s a fun experience for everyone who participates.

The most important part of the day is fundraising for United Way and their programs to help community members who are facing personal and economic hardships. As an organization, United Way of Greater St. Louis supports communities on both sides of the river. Helping with unions and the labor movement is a top priority.

“For 80-plus years, United Way and the AFL-CIO have worked together to create a society where we all have a chance to reach our potential,” McCowan explained. “Together, we strengthen our community through coordinated efforts that improve our community and provide services for working families facing personal and economic crises. Helping build a healthy community is not only a union tradition; it’s a mission of United Way.”

For more information about the trapshoot and barbecue fundraiser, click here. To learn more about United Way of Greater St. Louis, check out their official website at HelpingPeople.org.

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