When friends ask me if it makes sense to join a union, I say, ‘I have always made a living wage. I have never had a doctor bill I could not pay. I now have a pension that I am enjoying very much. Union dues were the best fifty bucks a month I ever spent.
Steve Brooke
Retired Q.F.C. worker
In other jobs, it was always me against the company. I had little support from managers or co-workers. Joining Local 81 was like becoming part of a brotherhood, a family. To me, it means ‘no worry’: about wages, health benefits, or the fear of unemployment.
Greg Brooks
Local 81, Safeway
The union is like an extended family. They care. I feel secure about my job, wages and benefits because my union contract spells it all out. When my mother became ill, I took time off work. My health plan coverage lapsed and there was no money to pay bills. My union stepped up. I regained my health benefits and time loss checks began to arrive. Thanks, Local 81, for being there in the best and worst of times!
Paula Flynn,
UFCW 81 , Fred Meyer
What’s most important to me is the job security my union contract provides. Because I am a union member, the company cannot come down to the shop floor and tell me they don’t want me here anymore. And every year, when I get a raise, I know it’s guaranteed. The union did this for me.
Mark Lopez
UFCW 81, Hytek Finishes- Aerospace
Thanks to the union, I have good health care for myself and my family. I had to be off work for an extended period of time and because of Local 81, I got paid sick leave and time-loss benefits. It was nice to have a union when I needed information and sound advice about my injury. My union is always there. When workplace issues arise, I know I can call them.
Jeff Mhoon
UFCW 81, Safeway
This union brought camaraderie to our workplace. We got respect. Our jobs became defined by our union contract, not decisions made at the sole discretion of the company. With all the benefits—wage increases, health care and more—I couldn’t afford not to join!
Adam Peterson
UFCW 81, Hytek Finishes- Aerospace
UFCW Local 81 means strength and security. It means I can work hard for my family without fear of discrimination. When my contract was negotiated, my union worked with a committee of my co-workers, listening to our concerns. They hammered out a good contract with pay and pension increases and a guarantee from the company that they will pay future health plan costs.
Ramiro Ramirez
UFCW 81, Draper Valley Farms
