Last week, 44 Master Social Workers and Bereavement Counselors from the CHI Franciscan Hospice Care Center in University Way, WA voted 37 to 2 for IAM representation.

“Congratulations to these health care professionals for choosing the IAM and valuing union representation, especially during these extremely difficult times,” said IAM Grand Lodge Organizer Gabby Rogano.

“This total team effort between the Organizing Department and the Western Territory is the kind of collaboration that makes us a success here in the IAM. Special thanks to GLR Gabby Rogano who ran a proactive, 100 percent virtual organizing campaign, overcoming the obstacles of the COVID-19 pandemic to bring justice to these workers,” said IAM Organizing Director Vinny Addeo. “This campaign could not have been a success without the support of District 751 President Jon Holden and Organizer Jesse Cote, who also played a significant role in the campaign.”

“I couldn’t be more proud of everyone’s efforts in this dramatic win,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen. “The collaborative efforts used during this campaign are improving our organizing culture and establishing the IAM in the healthcare industry. Congratulations to GLR Rogano, President Holden and District 751 Organizing Director Jesse Cote, for this very important win. I extend my heartfelt and warm welcome to our newest members who now begin to negotiate a strong IAM contract. Our new members work in the hospice care unit – one of the most demanding and important roles in healthcare.”

The workers join the growing group of professional health care workers in the IAM since the initiative to grow the IAM’s footprint in the sector with the creation of the IAM Healthcare Department.

On December 11, more than 100 Registered Nurses from the same hospice care center will be voting to join hands with their co-workers and become part of the IAM family.

    RELATED ARTICLES