(CASSADAGA, NEW YORK) – Unionized Job Corps Center Instructors represented by the Cassadaga Guardians Of The Hill - a Local of the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), and former students came together Monday (June 9th) to call on Elected Officials - including U.S. Congressman Nick Langworthy, to save the Cassadaga Job Corps Center and the Job Corps Program nationwide.

During a press conference held at the Stockton Volunteer Fire Department and organized by the Union, a bevy of speakers highlighted the importance of the center to the rural community and the students that walk through its doors.

“Job Corps is more than just a training program - it's a lifeline,” said Jake Brock, who serves as President of Cassadaga Guardians of the Hill and is a Career Preparation Phase Employee for Job Corps. “It’s a bridge to opportunity for young people ages (16 to 24) who are determined to change the trajectory of their lives. These centers don’t just shape individual futures - they strengthen entire communities.”

Margie Andrews, a Reading Instructor at the Cassadaga Campus in Chautauqua County and Vice President of Cassadaga Guardians of the Hill, said: “The most powerful thing Job Corps gives - something that can’t be measured in funding or spreadsheets - is confidence. Confidence isn’t given. It’s earned. And here, students earn it by doing. They try, they struggle, they succeed. And we say to them: ‘You did that. And you’ll do more.’”

Beyond Employees and Union Members, former students also shared their stories about how the Cassadaga Job Corps Center helped change their life.

“I needed to take a leave of absence from City Tech, in New York City,” Arlene Tariq said. “I felt like I was falling through the cracks. I needed a change. I needed structure. I needed a place where I could focus - and heal. Job Corps gave me that.”

Today, Arlene holds a Masters’ Degree in Social Work from the University at Buffalo and works as an Adolescent and Adult Psychotherapist at a private practice in the Buffalo area.

“When I hear about proposals to close centers like Cassadaga, I don’t just hear budget cuts - I hear doors being slammed shut on kids who are fighting for a chance. Job Corps changed my life. And I’m here today to fight so it can keep changing others,” Tariq said.

Those at the rally called on U.S. Congressman Nick Langworthy, who represents the area, to stand up for his constituents and keep the Cassadaga Job Corps Center open.

“We specifically demand Congressman Nick Langworthy to listen to his constituents, to meet with our students and Staff, and to fight for the Job Corps program that lifts up Working Class youth across New York and beyond,” said Eric Pasquale, a Purchasing Agent at Cassadaga Job Corps and Treasurer of Guardians of the Hill. “Although the Congressman isn’t here today our door remains open. We are calling on you, Congressman Langworthy - and every Elected Leader - to take a stand, not just in words, but in action. Job Corps deserves your full support. Our young people deserve better.”

The Cassadaga Guardians of the Hill formed in July 2024 at the Cassadaga Job Corp Center after having difficulty being able to get basic things done.

“We did not have basic supplies,” Brock said. “At one point, we did not have toilet paper for students in the dorms.”

Ninety-eight percent of eligible Members voted to form the Union, a strong showing of unity as the Union is now negotiating their first contract.