Part of the Negotiating Committee for Bacharach Rehabilitation. From left to right: Union Representative Chad Brooks, workers Tania Simpson and Debbie Daniels, and Union Representative Peter White.

Earlier this year, thirteen receptionists and aides from multiple outpatient Bacharach Institute for Rehabilitation offices in Atlantic, Cape May, and Ocean counties came together and voted for union representation.

After winning the election, they worked towards negotiating a first union contract. Following months of negotiations, we are pleased to announce on Thursday, September 15, the receptionists and aides voted to ratify their very first contract! Congratulations!

Their first union contract established terms such as employee seniority, paid holidays, sick, vacation, and personal time, new member orientation, benefits, and outlines the duties of Shop Stewards. Because New Jersey is an at-will state, the contract also negates management’s ability to discipline employees without “just cause,” and also illustrates a clear grievance process. Every aide and receptionist at Bacharach received at least a 3% wage increase with the agreement.

Debbie Daniels voting on her first contract!

Congratulations again to our newest union members! We are very proud of you for achieving this important milestone. From here on out, all changes will need to be mutually agreed upon by both the employer and union members.

We’d also like to thank the Negotiating Committee for their hard work. First contracts lay the groundwork for all working conditions, and it is no easy task! The committee included Union Representative Chad Brooks, Director of Field Services Peggy Kelly, Union Representative Peter White, Worker Tania Simpson, and Worker Debbie Daniels.

Why not you?

Are you interested in learning more about how UFCW Local 152 can help you and your coworkers? Fill out the Union Interest Form or email mthompson@ufcwlocal152.org today.