More than 275 direct support professionals at the Mentor Network, REM Connecticut Community Services have formed their union with SEIU District 1199.  Votes were counted on August 1, and the count was 144 to 48 — a 3 to 1 margin of victory! Despite tough employer opposition, workers stood up for respect, better pay and a voice to improve services and supports for their consumers.

“I’m organizing because changes are needed within the agency for the staff, our families and the people we care for,” said Carina Kerr, a direct support worker at the Mentor Network, REM.

Simone Dacres says that she supports forming a union because, “We need to support each other as we support our consumers here at REM.”

Congratulations and welcome to the newest group of 1199 members. Every day, more and more private sector community program workers are joining together to build a strong voice for ourselves and our consumers.  If you and your co-workers want to organize, call (860) 549-1199 today!