More than 50 OSEA chapter leaders and activists spent a Saturday morning learning skills, exploring resources and tapping into new levels of support from the State Office during OSEA’s virtual Leadership Summit on January 31.
President Sarah Wofford launched the event by thanking chapter officers, stewards, worksite organizers (WSOs) and other leaders for the work they do for OSEA, saying, “You are the ones on the ground, in the trenches, supporting your coworkers. That’s why we hold the Leadership Summit, to make sure the leaders and advocates who form the foundation of our union have the support and knowledge you need to fill those important roles.”
OSEA Statewide Organizing Lead Elissa Edge facilitated an interactive discussion on the resources and tools available for chapters. While many of the tools have been available for years, some newer leaders were not aware of them and others learned new ways resources are being used in other chapters. The discussion covered everything from basic resources and who to call when your chapter needs support to developing sustainable programs for new hire outreach, strategic campaigns and more.
Next, Statewide Field Operations Lead Hobe Williams talked to leaders about chapter structure and how to set your chapter up for success. The training focused on helping leaders empower networks of WSOs, stewards and chapter committees – opportunities that keep members engaged, help develop future leaders and ensure that all of the responsibilities of running a strong chapter don’t fall solely on one or two members.
The training was detailed, interactive and informative, members reported. But for many, the best part was being able to connect with peers from across the state. Members were active in the chat throughout the morning, asking and answering questions, offering ideas and suggestions, sharing additional resources and celebrating each other’s achievements. The overwhelming feedback was that leaders want even more opportunities to connect with each other! If that sounds like you, watch your email for information on President Wofford’s monthly chapter leader meetings and be sure to join OSEA at Conference in June, which is always our biggest and best opportunity to gather with members from across the state.
You can find many of the resources shared during the summit on the Resources for Chapter Leaders webpage. More training opportunities are ahead for those who want to boost their union skills! OSEA’s virtual training program continues through May with dozens of workshops covering organizing, leadership, photography and more.