Posted October 16, 2006

1) Tell us about a specific instance when union membership made a difference to you.  

Union membership makes a difference to me every day. I wake up in the morning and give thanks that I'm part of the Teamsters, which means good pay and quality health care for me and my family. A colleague of mine's wife had a baby a few years back and it only cost them $10 for their hospital stay. This is just one of the many advantages that separate union workers from non-union workers.  

2) What are some of the other real-life benefits you and your co-workers have as a member of a union?  

I'd say the most important benefit is a voice on the job, which is very important to all of us. I'm proud to say I'm a UPS employee because the Teamsters made it what it is today. My colleagues and I never worry about favoritism since everything is based on seniority. I'll never forget my start date, 5/18/87.  

3) How do you get the word out about these benefits?  

Whenever I get a new employee, one of my first questions is whether they're part of a union. If they tell me no, I'll ask them if anyone's talked to them about joining. I'll explain the benefits we have as part of the Teamsters. I'll also explain the union's role in helping the part timers get health care and pension plans. Then I'll explain the grievance procedure that ensures a fair workplace.  

4) What do you say to co-workers who are skeptical?  

Sometimes there will be one or two people who are skeptical. When a senior member walks by and sees me trying to sign them up, they'll tell them that they need to be in the union if they want job security, good health care, and a fair contract. That usually pushes them over the edge.  

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