Member of the Week: Dawn Hamelin

Dawn Hamelin of Ralphs 296, has been in the industry for 33 years. She started as a box person at Market Basket and is now a Receiver.

Hamelin’s hobbies include jet skis, quad riding and motorcycle riding in the desert.

“Chuck Adinolfi asked me to be a steward in 1989. He was so excited about the union and I wanted to be a part of it.”

When asked what inspired her to get more involved she said, “My father retired from UFCW and I was raised with all the benefits from this Union. I just don’t know how people make it without them.”

Q: How would your life be different if you were not a union member?

A: “I wouldn’t have the back-up that I have now. I wouldn’t have protection on the job or the benefits that I do.”

Q: If you could make a change in the workplace, what would it be?

A: “I would want more help. If that meant more people, or more hours to get what we need to done.”

Q: What is it you like most about your job?

A: “I love the feeling I get when my back room is clean and organized, it’s the one place I feel I have a little control.”