Why should you join the union?
You should join the union if:
You believe that you deserve the same pay, benefits and Job security as the firefighters and police officers you risk your life next to each day.
You believe that the common voice of many can hold more sway than the unorganized efforts of individuals.
You believe in paying your fair share of the cost of work that benefits you.
You believe that you want a voice in what direction the union is taking.
What if I can’t afford to join the union?
What you really mean is what if I think everything I could do with the small amount of cost associated with the union is more important than what the union does for me. In the end we express our values and our character with our actions. The men and women who put themselves “out there” take risks on your behalf. Many of our new people only have their jobs because the union has advocated for more ambulances. Current consideration of pay parity with public safety is also a direct result of the union’s actions. The cost of being a part of the union is far less than the value of the services our members receive. The real question is how can a person of character “not afford” to be a part of the union.
What if I don’t agree with all the positions or actions of the union?
First find out if what you think is going on is actually the case. People who would like to derail the concept of a strong union often distort the union’s actions or positions for personal gain. These misguided individuals, frequently acting as anonymous cowards place there own short term interests over the long term advancement of the rank and file employees. The best way to find out what is really going on with the union is to get involved, contact the officers or come to a meeting. The officers are always willing to explain how a certain decision was made or what the reason was for a specific action. The Union officers don’t do anything anonymously we proudly sign our names and are prepared to explain ourselves knowing that not everyone will always agree with our actions. We welcome the diverse views of our membership and welcome those who would join us to improve the lives of our membership and the quality of our EMS system.
If you are a full time EMT, Paramedic or Dispatcher you can apply for membership right now! Download and print the IAFF membership application and dues deduction form.* Fill them out and place them in Kevin Scardina’s Mailbox. The officer and members look forward to welcoming you into our local.
The cost is $38.98 a person total per month for paramedics. The dues to IAFF are payed out of the $39.98 deducted from your pay-check.
*Applicant must be employed at Denver Health Paramedic Division as a Paramedic, EMT-Basic, or VST.
