NELSON – CUPE 339, representing municipal workers in the City of Nelson, is pleased to welcome 16 youth centre workers to the local. The workers voted to join CUPE 339 in a Labour Board vote that was counted on July 22.
“We’re really pleased to welcome these workers into CUPE 339,” said President Mike Stefiuk. “They provide an indispensable service to youth in our community and we look forward to working with the City of Nelson on their behalf.”
The youth centre offers a safe and respectful space that is welcoming and inclusive. The centre has three separate departments: a drop-in Youth Centre with programming, an Employment Centre, and a Campground to help generate additional income. It includes an indoor skateboard court, music room, art room, art gallery and a lounge for parents and youth. Youth centre workers provide free or low-cost programs that include skateboard instruction, arts, yoga, magic – with a recently-added community-supported program where youth learn to prepare afterschool snacks, while learning about local food sources.
Stefiuk said that CUPE 339 has a good relationship with the City of Nelson and they intend to continue to build on that relationship with this newest group of workers.
CUPE 339 also represents eighty inside and outside public workers – who provide services for parks, public works, bylaws, finance, and water and wastewater in Nelson, as well as 14 public library workers.
