How Collaboration Strengthens CVNQuinte’s Workplace and Services

CVNQuinte’s commitment to its people extends beyond those it supports to its valued employees, fostering an exceptional environment of collaboration and respect. While many workplaces – especially in the high-expectation world of personal care and support – experience tension between employees, unions, and management, CVNQuinte stands out for its harmonious relationships. These positive dynamics benefit not only the employees but also the people supported by the organization. 

Respect as a Foundation

Respect is at the heart of CVNQuinte’s approach, from the people it serves to its employees and union representatives. Patrick (Pat) Connor, a union steward and longtime employee, emphasizes the value placed on every person connected with CVNQuinte. “This agency recognizes the people we support as people first,” says Pat. “It’s about people living in the community, making their own choices about their lives, and being treated with dignity.”  

This respect, Pat explains, extends seamlessly to the workplace. He describes CVNQuinte’s union-management relationship as “non-adversarial,” a rarity in many labor environments. “We’ve deliberately built a collaborative environment where we focus on mentorship, getting along, and solving problems together. It’s not about ‘us versus them’” Pat adds.

Collaboration for a Common Goal

Union Representative and Community Support Worker Patricia Abbott echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the collaborative approach to labor relations at CVNQuinte. “When we renew our collective agreement, there’s no friction, no arguments. We’re all working toward the same goal—to ensure our employees are happy and supported so they can best support the people in our care,” she explains.

Patricia illustrates with a common seniority-based example: “If any of the workers have concerns about not getting a posting they can contact their union rep and we can look into it for them,” she explains. “We often see that it’s because somebody with higher seniority got the position or the hours aren't matching with the availability. So part of our role is to always check to see that it's done according to our collective agreement,” Patricia concludes.

Pat also highlights how this approach avoids unnecessary delays. “If there’s a disagreement, we address it professionally. It doesn’t disrupt the work or the support we’re here to provide,” he said. “That focus on resolution rather than conflict keeps us moving forward.”  

Such collaboration ensures the organization’s focus remains squarely on its mission: enabling individuals to live their best lives.  

A Shared Commitment to CVNQuinte Ideals

The alignment between employees, union representatives, and management reflects a shared dedication to CVNQuinte’s purpose. Patricia notes how the union’s involvement provides employees with additional resources, such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). “Whether it’s grief counseling or other support, the EAP is an important tool for our team,” she says. 

For Pat, the positive labour environment goes hand in hand with the organization’s philosophy. “We are an enablement organization. If we can’t figure out how to collaborate, how can we mentor and model collaboration for the people we support?” he remarks. 

Patricia reinforces this idea, highlighting the collective pride employees feel in their work. “At CVNQuinte, we’re not just here to do a job. We’re here to make a difference, and that starts with how we treat one another.” 

Everyone Thrives 

The collaborative and respectful workplace culture at CVNQuinte serves as a powerful example of what’s possible when employees, unions, and management work together. By prioritizing mutual respect and focusing on shared goals, the organization has created an environment where staff thrive – and the people supported by CVNQuinte benefit.  

In the words of Pat Connor, “When it works better, we’re all better.”

Learn more in this special CVNQuinte micro-documentary: