Vermont Business Magazine Howard Center management has confirmed that the agency’s Board of Trustees have approved a two-year contract with Local 1674 of AFSCME Council 93, which represents 723 Howard Center direct care workers, 112 of whom are members of the union. The agency, based in Burlington, employs over 1500 employees.
Bob Bick, CEO, said, “While it remains a time of change and financial uncertainty in the state and national healthcare landscape, we will continue to advocate for improved funding support and remain committed to facing the difficult decisions required to continue our commitment to address compensation for our employees. We are very pleased that we have reached this agreement and are able to offer additional compensation, benefits, and working conditions that recognize our employee’s service and commitment in providing critical services for the children, adults, and families in our community. We value our shared commitment to our community and the people we serve.”
Howard Center offers life-saving professional crisis and counseling services to children and adults; supportive services to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities who need help with education, employment, and life maintenance skills; counseling and medical services for those struggling with substance use disorders, and intensive interventions and supports for adults with serious and persistent mental health challenges. Last year we helped more than 16,000 people. Howard Center is a funded agency of the United Way of Northwest Vermont.
Source: Howard Center 9.19.2016