Collins, 29, worked at the Macy's (M, Fortune 500) department store off and on for two years, and was frustrated that she wasn't made a full-time employee. Her pay wasn't enough to support her family of four, so she worked a second job. When she asked her manager for a promotion earlier this year, she was passed over.
So Collins joined other retail and fast food workers on April 24 in a rally outside of Chicago's Union Station asking their employers to give them better hours, wages and benefits.
Soon after the rally, Collins' manager offered her a full-time position in the Macy's shoe department. Collins' pay went from $8.25 to $8.50 an hour, she was eligible for full benefits and her hours were bumped up to at least 32 per week.
"It makes you feel empowered," said Collins, who doesn't need to work a second job anymore and can spend more time with her family. "I didn't understand the power that people have when they speak up."
We love our weirdo regional sodas. While they may have local roots, many have joined beverage empires.
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