What are the most satisfying and most challenging things about being involved with your union?

Peggy Aleman First Student Trustee — Local 624

“As trustees, we’re there to question things. We look at everything as a whole. What’s most satisfying is when we bring new non-union members into the family and get them the ben- efits and representation they deserve. We just organized NeilMed and those workers bring such positive energy that they can make a change in their work environment.”

Doug Radonich Cemex Sergeant at Arms — Local 853

“The livelihood that has been afford- ed to me because of the Local means I have to give something back for those opportunities. With the situa- tion in labor now, you couldn’t ask to be affiliated with a better organi- zation. My future is bright, so I want to give back. The challenges are around the economy: people are grateful to have a job and that hurts organizing, because people aren’t willing to jeopardize what they have. We need to educate our members in the ways of organized labor. They pay their dues and expect everything to be there. We need to educate them because the best organizer is a mem- ber organizer.”

Ted Parmentier Pacific Coast Producers Trustee — Local 601

“It’s satisfying to help people and support the needs of the members. The challenges are the pension and healthcare. Everyone wants to retire with a nice pension, but the country’s economics make that hard to do.”

Bryan Austin Del Monte Foods Trustee — Local 948

“Being able to represent our people and have a voice from our plant in union leadership. The biggest chal- lenge is educating our people and let- ting them know what they can and cannot do. Things have definitely changed with the new economy.”

Danny Smith California Dairies Trustee — Local 517

“Somebody set the groundwork for me, and now I have a chance to give back as a Trustee. It’s my turn to pro- tect those benefits I have. I’m learning as I go. The challenge is facing the tough economic times and trying to motivate people to get involved and participate. People need to see the union as the vehicle for their future. Once people start participating, they feel like they’re a part of something, and part of controlling their lives.”