Trusted Partners

AFSCME New Jersey Council 63 is always here for our members, because we know your needs go beyond the workplace. That’s why we’re proud to share trusted partners offering essential services for union members and their families. From primary healthcare and mental health support to addiction services and legal assistance, help is just a call away. Click their names to get more information.

 

Legal Assistance

Sam Gaylord

Sam Gaylord  is a certified workers’ compensation attorney with decades of experience helping working people get the benefits they deserve. Now a partner at Szaferman Lakind, Sam specializes in workers’ comp claims, Social Security disability, and pension appeals. He’s known for his honest, compassionate approach and has been recognized as a New Jersey Super Lawyer for many years. You can also follow Sam’s informative weekly series, Saturdays With Sam, where he breaks down workers’ comp, disability, and legal topics in a clear, engaging way to help you understand your rights.

Szaferman Lakind is a full-service law firm offering trusted legal support in injury, family, and workplace matters, making them a strong ally for AFSCME Council 63 members and their families.

Addiction Treatment Services

Dr Williams

Dr. Williams has been a trusted partner to AFSCME Locals across New Jersey, providing vital support when members faced the challenges of addiction and mental health issues. With decades of clinical expertise, he has guided union leaders in connecting brothers and sisters to effective treatment, counseling, and recovery resources. His compassion, professionalism, and deep understanding of regulatory and treatment systems have made him an invaluable ally in ensuring AFSCME members and their families receive the care and dignity they deserve.

Promotional Products & Brand Merchandise

Laura Patten

Laura Patten  has nearly two decades of experience helping organizations bring their brand to life through high-quality promotional products. A senior representative with The Vernon Company, Laura specializes in creative, effective solutions for promotional branding. She works closely with union organizations to provide union-printed, USA-made products with the union bug, offering items such as lapel pins, apparel, bags, planners, magnets, and more. Known for her collaborative approach and eye for detail, Laura helps groups find the right items to showcase their identity and values. 

The Vernon Company has been helping organizations promote their brand since 1902. As a family-owned, employee-owned business, Vernon provides trusted expertise in branded merchandise, promotional items, and recognition products. With a strong commitment to quality and service, they offer a wide range of union-printed, USA-made options to help unions and organizations proudly display their values. Vernon’s longevity and dedication make them a reliable partner for AFSCME Council 63 locals and members looking to build identity, recognition, and unity.

Michael Lewis BBS Benefits Solutions

Michael Lewis & BBS Benefit Solutionshas partnered with AFSCME New Jersey to provide members with access to high-quality voluntary benefits, clear communication, and hands-on enrollment support. Since 2020, BBS has partnered with AFSCME NJ, building on our track record of delivering voluntary benefits solutions to more than 100 labor unions since 2009. As an independently owned and operated organization, we are dedicated to supporting Union Leaders and Members with exceptional service and comprehensive benefits education, empowering them to make informed choices that safeguard their financial future. Our team of multilingual, licensed W-2 employees provides personalized education, enrollment assistance, claims advocacy, and ongoing support to every enrolled member.

BBS services include:

  • Carrier Marketing – matching members with the best benefit options available
  • Claims Advocacy – helping members navigate the claims process and get answers quickly
  • 24/7 Enrollment Support – on-site and online solutions for multiple shifts and locations
  • Dedicated Call Center – staffed by licensed professionals, ready to assist members anytime
  • Flexible Billing Options – payroll deduction, ACH, and consolidated billing across carriers

Since 2020, BBS has helped deliver over $25 million in claims to union members, ensuring peace of mind and financial security during life’s most unexpected moments.