Organizing Tip of the Week: Connecting with the Community
Friday, June 3, 2011(National Federation of Federal Employees)
A Local
that is visible not only in the workplace, but
also within the community, is a great way to
show potential members why it is important to
get involved and join the Union. There
are limitless ways a Local and its members can
become engaged with the community.
Start by
choosing a service that the majority of the
bargaining unit can participate in. You don’t
have to start big when considering how to
volunteer. Volunteering can be as simple as
holding a food drive, collecting toys, or
putting together aid kits for victims of
natural disasters. Even these small acts will
demonstrate to the bargaining unit that the
true essence of Unionism is community
involvement.
This
stand of solidarity exhibits the commitment and
value of Unions in our workplace and in the
community. Volunteering is an effective way to
bring members and non-members alike together
for a greater cause. Non-members are more likely
to become members, too, when they see the Local
in action in a positive
way.
For
larger resources and other ideas about where to
volunteer, visit the Working America website
link listed below. Working America is a community
affiliate of the AFL-CIO; it’s a powerful force
for working people. It combines
the strength of 10 million Union men
and women and millions of workers without the
benefit of a workplace Union who share common
challenges and goals to fight in
communities, states, and nationally for what
really
matters.
If you would
like more advice on where to volunteer or how
to get involved, please contact your National
Organizing Coordinator.
Working
America: http://www.workingamerica.org/