Even with most in-person classes canceled at state colleges and universities, some campuses are still providing services to students and staff. And custodial workers like AFSCME member Silvestra Avila continue to keep campuses sparkling clean.  

A custodial worker at Great Basin College, Silvestra proudly keeps the Elko campus clean for staff and students who continue to make their way to campus. Custodial workers have implemented stronger procedures for slowing the spread of COVID-19, such as using a bleach solution for disinfecting surfaces and cleaning often-touched surfaces like doors multiple times a day. While the work is challenging, Silvestra knows she is doing her part to keep her community safe.  

“In my work, I am the first defense for not spreading the virus. I do everything I can to keep everything super clean and disinfected,” Silvestra said.  

With the state facing budget shortfalls soon, Silvestra joins AFSCME members across the country in calling on Congress to fund the front lines by sending federal aid directly to states and local governments. This emergency aid will help public services workers continue to provide services to our communities, like keeping our college campuses safe and clean.  

“It’s easy to notice our work- it's a clean campus! We want to be ready for when the students come back, and we need Congress to help our state make sure I can do my job when the classes start,” said Silvestra.