BUFFALO — CSEA Western Region leaders and activists recently gathered for our union’s Region 6 Winter Conference, which focused on leadership development, member engagement and strengthening our union.
Local and unit officers from throughout the region’s 14 counties came together for a weekend of leadership training during what organizers called an “officers boot camp,” a conference theme developed by Western Region 6 leadership to strengthen the skills officers use every day to advocate for and support members.
Western Region 6 President Steve Healy welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of staying engaged and informed.
“This conference is about making sure our leaders have the tools they need to support our members,” said Healy. “When our officers are educated and connected, our union is stronger.”
Also joining the conference were CSEA Executive Vice President Richard Bebo, Statewide Secretary Stacey Baldwin Deyo and Statewide Treasurer Nicole Meeks.
Officers participated inworkshops designed to strengthen the day-to-day work of union leadership. Sessions included Grievance Writing 101, Grievance vs. Improper Practice, Conflict Management and Resolution, Communicating Digitally and Assessing the Leader in You. The sessions sparked active discussion among attendees, with leaders sharing real-world experiences and strategies they can bring back to their locals and units.
The conference also offered opportunities for officers to connect with one another, exchange experiences and build relationships with fellow leaders across the region.
Leaders also discussed ways to strengthen member engagement and encourage participation in union activities.
A plenary session on Blitzing and Mobilizing highlighted the importance of member engagement and outreach. During the session, presenters from the CSEA Membership Department shared strategies leaders can use to connect with members in their workplaces, encourage participation and strengthen union visibility.
The session sparked conversations among attendees about creative ways locals and units can reach members and build stronger connections across their worksites.
Representatives from CSEA’s Member Benefits Department and other union vendors were also on hand to speak with attendees about programs and services available to members.
Leaders left the conference with new ideas, strengthened skills and renewed energy to bring back to their locals and units across the region.
— Sara McNicholas
