News

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has appointed Local 56 Sister Ziven Drake to the state’s Veterans’ Homes Council. The council’s responsibilities for veterans’ homes are significant, including recommending improvements and policies; submitting recommendations for appointments and removal of superintendents; and developing an annual report reviewing the demographics, finances, staffing levels, efficacy, equity, and resident well-being in homes.

Healey said that the council “will play a critical role in ensuring that we are providing the care that our veterans need and deserve” and that Drake and the other six appointees “have an intimate understanding of the complex needs of veterans, including access to health care, mental health care, housing and food assistance.”

Drake is a US Air Force veteran who served as a crew chief in tactical aircraft maintenance. She was a commercial diver in Local 56 before joining the North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund, where is now serves as assistant executive director.

“I am honored to have been considered for this appointment, and humbled to have been selected,” Drake said. “Aside from the work I do within NASCTF/NASRCC, serving in the USAF has been one of my proudest accomplishments and really allowed me to understand and reach my full potential. I am happy to serve our veteran population and will work hard to ensure they have access to the best resources the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has to offer.”

“As the proud daughter of a Navy veteran, I understand how important it is that our veterans receive comprehensive services and care,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This Council will be critical for ensuring that families can trust that their loved ones are being well cared for in our Veterans’ Homes and that their health, safety and well-being are protected.”