Page 7 - Work Force March 2024

I Love My Union: Members share their love
Once again this year, CSEA members shared their union love for a chance to win one of 10 $50 gift cards. The 10 winning entries, noted on this page, highlight how their jobs and lives have been improved through their union membership. Read the entries and feel the love!
“I love my union, CSEA, as I love the peace of mind I receive of having job security, job protection, and wage increases that
I deserve, and shouldn’t ever need to prove my hard work to earn a livable wage to live a happy, and comfortable life. ”
— Valerie Troiano
Tax and OCM (Office of Cannabis Management) Local, Capital Region
“I love our union because it feels like a second family!”
— Jo Gray-Rizzuti
Westchester County Local, Southern Region
“They actually care about your situation and want the best for it. Our union is always willing to go above and beyond, that’s a lot nowadays.”
— Natalie Luciano
New York City State Employees Local, Metropolitan Region
“I love my union because when it
comes to unconditional support CSEA
is the best union. Each member feels heard, understood, and their loyalty is unmatched. We are supported and given opportunities to enhance our childcare business.”
— Bonita Whitlock
CSEA/VOICE Local 100A
“I LOVE my union because it gives me so many opportunities to advance in my job like the trainings they offer, and the love and support we get from all of members is so amazing and uplifting. It makes me want to come to work and be involved.”
— Shyanna Adami
Office of General Services Local, Capital Region
“I love my union because they continuously work to improve our working conditions and compensation. They are a voice for the support staff who tirelessly work to keep things running smoothly to get things done. Every small step and change - improves the lives of us all!”
— Melinda Chiocchio
Suffolk County Educational Local, Long Island Region
“I love my union, because they continue to negotiate and fight for what is important to us members and the things that matter. It’s a good feeling to know that the union has our backs when in need and stand their ground for what they truly believe in for the better of us union members.”
— Colleen Clemons
Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center Local, Central Region
“I love my union because it has my back, it fights for me and my co-workers, and
it appreciates our support and supports us in turn. My union gives us agency, pushes us to recognize our contributions, and reminds us that we have vibrant and fulfilling lives outside of work.”
— Jacquelyn Lam
Suffolk County Local, Long Island Region
“I love my union because I’m confident that they will always advocate on my behalf and protect my rights. I was a member of the union for the entire 35 years that I worked as a civil servant and continued my membership when I retired. I will always be a member of CSEA. I’m proud to be Union Strong!”
— Mary Frances Coppola
Jefferson-Lewis Counties Retirees Local, Central Region
“I love our union because it works towards getting us the pay that we deserve and benefits that we deserve and is ready to represent at grievance discussions.”
— Betsy Vazquez-Aradio
Erie County Local, Western Region
March 2024
The Work Force 7