As many Americans, I have been working my whole life to achieve the American Dream. But  not long ago, at 30 years old and even with a college degree, I was still struggling to pay the rent. All that changed when I became a member of UFCW Local 1445.

I was able to find employment at a cannabis industry company in which there was an endless supply of growth opportunities but it was not reflected in my wages. All that changed when we became unionized and joined UFCW Local 1445. Then I was able to enjoy paid maternity leave to spend time with my son and I even saw a pay increase that allowed me to buy a home. Buying a home where children can run and play is the answer to every parent's dream. And I would have been unable to achieve this dream without UFCW Local 1445.

I am forever grateful to UFCW Local 1445 and am so proud to now be a union steward at the cannabis facility where I work. It's true:  Unions allow average working Americans to achieve the American Dream.

Thank you to UFCW Local 1445 for all your work for us. As an Irish Catholic mother I know there is a place in heaven for you and our union. God bless.