Meet an Amazing Public Service Worker

There are many amazing and unique stories of people who provide public service across our union. Many AFSCME members go above and beyond for their communities. Their work seldom receives notice but is vital to the well-being of their communities.

Take Van DeVries, who was a building engineer at an elementary school in Colorado. It’s a behind-the-scenes kind of job a lot of people would see as ordinary, but not the kids or the staff at the school. You need to hear what Van’s kids and staff have to say about him in this video, about the difference he makes in their lives.

That’s what politicians and other powerful elites don’t seem to understand when they disrespect public service workers and try to take away our union rights. Public service isn’t just a job. It’s a calling. And every person like you, working hard to improve your community, deserves respect.

AFSCME is a union of proud public service workers like Van, and like you. Being part of a union means we command respect at the negotiating table when we fight for fair wages and benefits. That’s why, after a lifetime of service, Van was recently able to retire with security and dignity.

Watch his video, then tell us if you agree that public service is more than just a job.

Together, we’ll make sure the politicians and billionaires get the message: We deserve respect.