CUPE 338 along with affiliated groups such as CUPE BC, the Southern Interior District Council (SIDC), North Okanagan Labour Council (NOLC), BC Federation of Labour (BCFED), Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) and other unions, all come together to help and support the communities we work and live in. From donations to members and organizations as a result of devastating wildfires in the region, to holiday food hampers for needy families, sponsoring youth sports teams, or manning a tent at an event, our union along with our allies are here to help and support our communities and members valley and province wide.
AUBREY BURTON/REG FORD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Dear members,
Applications are now open for the CUPE BC Aubrey Burton/Reg Ford Memorial Scholarship until July 31, 2026. We are accepting submissions online based on the following criteria:
1. Parent, Guardian or Spouse of Applicant, or the Applicant must be a member in good standing of a CUPE Local affiliated to CUPE BC at the time of application.
2. Applicant must have completed Grade 12 in the current or previous calendar year, or the applicant must be a mature student who has not previously enrolled at a Post-Secondary Institution.
3. Applicant must be entering first year of a recognized public post-secondary institution in BC. A copy of the acceptance letter from the admitting institution must be supplied.
4. Applicant must complete an online application form supported by copies of the Senior Secondary Statement and Letter(s) of Reference from a School Principal or Counsellor.
Four (4) $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to each of the following:
1. One attending a public University (applicant with the highest GPA).
2. One attending a public Community College (applicant with the highest GPA).
3. One attending a public trades or technical institution (applicant with the highest GPA).
4. One based on a “lottery draw” of all applications.
Application Form: https://cupebcevents.ca/forms/abrf2026/
Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest. Should you have any questions regarding this update, please email info@cupe.bc.ca for additional information.
In solidarity,
CUPE British Columbia
#410-6222 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby, British Columbia
V5H 0G3
P: 604.291.9119
Help Shape the Future of CUPE Local 338
CUPE Local 338 is energized and ready to grow. We’re revitalizing our Committees and renewing our connection with members and the wider community—and there’s no better time to get involved.
Major bargaining is underway at the City of Kelowna, our largest unit, with the Airport, Commissionaires, and the Kelowna Museums Society all heading to the table later this year.
At the same time, we are launching a summer advertising campaign—supported by CUPE National, which is covering half the cost—to highlight that CUPE Local 338 is active, engaged, and making a difference across the Okanagan.
To complement that campaign, we want to be visible and present in our communities.
- If there’s a neighborhood event where we could take part—hosting a BBQ, handing out water or treats, or simply being there to connect—we want to hear about it.
- If there’s a local sports team or league looking for sponsorship, let us know. If it interests you, it interests us!
Most importantly, we are inviting expressions of interest from members who want to help shape our work by joining newly formed Committees or supporting areas that matter to them:
- Education Committee – Helps identify and support learning opportunities for Executive members, Shop Stewards, Committees, and all members.
- Health and Safety Committee – Supports and advises Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees and participates in initiatives such as the Day of Mourning.
- Young Workers Committee – Builds engagement and activities for members aged 35 and under.
- Communicating CUPE – Promotes CUPE Local 338 activities and information to members and the public, including fun events with the CUPE 338 Tent.
- Political Action Committee (PAC) – Monitors and engages in local and provincial elections to advance union values.
- Ad Hoc Committees – Have an idea or passion you’d like to explore? We’re open to new committee suggestions driven by member interest.
This is your union. Your ideas, energy, and involvement help shape our direction and our impact. If you’ve ever thought about getting more involved, now is the time—we’d love to hear from you!
Your Executive Board is; Amanda, Maryann, Chris L., Conner, Kim, Scott B., Patti, Jas, Ashley, Mitch, Scott A., Chris M., Daniel
Help bring back lifeguards to Vancouver beaches
Hi Friend,
I’m reaching out to ask for your help in pushing back on a decision that puts public safety at risk on Vancouver’s beaches.
Earlier this month, a decision was made to eliminate lifeguards at half of Vancouver's beaches, a direct result of the City of Vancouver's zero percent budget increase. This decision cuts frontline public services and removes trained CUPE 1004 members from roles that are critical to keeping people safe.
Lifeguards are trained public safety professionals who prevent emergencies before they happen and respond when they do. Removing them from busy public beaches increases risk for everyone who uses these shared spaces.
In response, CUPE 1004 has launched a petition calling on Mayor Ken Sim and Vancouver City Council to provide the funding needed to restore lifeguard services.
How can you help? If you have members who work or live in Metro Vancouver, we’re asking you to share this petition and encourage members to add their names. You’re welcome to copy and paste the template message below to make sharing easy.
Your support will help build the pressure needed to reverse this decision and ensure Vancouver’s beaches remain safe for everyone.
In solidarity,
Karen Ranalletta, President, CUPE BC
How can you help?
By adding your name to the petition, you can help send a clear message that safety on Vancouver’s beaches shouldn’t be optional.
Sign the petition here:
https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/vancouver-lifeguards
Every signature helps build momentum to protect this essential public safety service.
Thanks for your support.