When employees can influence their work environment, everyone benefits.

September 9, 2026

By Kathy Lara, Oregon Capital Chronicle

The Oregon Capital Chronicle is committed to providing in-depth and practical reporting on Oregon’s state government, politics, and policies.

Dwanna Tarpio, an employee at Serenity Hospice in Eugene, expressed her challenges: “I love these patients, but it’s really hard to go home and not be able to provide for your family.”

Motivated by insufficient wages for the demanding physical and emotional work they perform, Dwanna and her coworkers opted to establish a union.