As casinos and some non-essential businesses continue to stay closed during the COVID-19 public health crisis, many Nevadans find themselves unemployed, furloughed, or on reduced work hours. In addition to unemployment insurance, other social support programs may be available to people facing economic hardships. Many AFSCME members at the Division of Welfare and Social Services have adjusted to a tele-work schedule that allows them to help Nevadans with resources in their time of need.  

Richard Zemke, a family support specialist, is one such member who continues to connect Nevadans to programs that help them navigate financial hardships.  

“It’s very rewarding to be able to find ways to help my fellow Nevadans during these challenging times. We are one community, and as a state employee I am here to help,” said Richard, who also serves as a Local 4041, Regional Vice President for Region 1.  

With no date as to when many Nevadans will be back to work, social programs have become a lifeline for many families. However, as social programs, and the state agencies that provide them, have remained chronically underfunded across the country for years, additional federal support will be needed to sustain these programs in Nevada.  

“So many people and families need help right now, and social service workers like me are on the front lines providing hope for our communities. Even during good economic times, the systems we use to run these programs are underfunded and outdated. Investments into these state programs means we can provide better services, especially in critical times like now. We don’t know when people will be able to go back to work and our state needs support from Washington DC to help us keep our communities safe and healthy in the long run.” said Richard.  

Join Richard, and other AFSCME members across the country, in sending a letter to your Representative, urging Congress to fund the front lines!