The St. Croix Valley Central Labor Council and St. Croix Valley United Way are teaming up to create a joint community services program. Though similar to programs that already exist in St. Paul, Minneapolis and other cities, the St. Croix agreement is among the first in the nation in a non-urban setting.

Brian Beedle, president of the Labor Council, said everyone would benefit from the collaboration. 'Hundreds of union members who volunteer here in their own communities will be acknowledged for their efforts,' he said. 'The St. Croix Area United Way will boost its volunteer power, and area residents will benefit from expanded services.'

The agreement was signed Nov. 18 in Stillwater. Beedle said the Labor Council and United Way expect to hire a community services liaison to organize programs and recruit volunteers.

This article was written for The Union Advocate newspaper. Used by permission. The Union Advocate is the official publication of the St. Paul Trades and Labor Assembly. E-mail The Advocate at: advocate@mtn.org