OPEIU members, leaders and staff gathered in Memphis, Tennessee, April 27-30 to develop internal organizing strategies for their local unions. From how to conduct new member orientations to team building and leadership development, these OPEIU activists proved that we’re stronger working together!

Applications are now being accepted for the OPEIU Student Reduction Program to help OPEIU members and associate members repay their student debt. The fund provides five awards of $2,500 each year to a member who has completed an associate or undergraduate degree and who can demonstrate they have at least $10,000 in student debt and their account is current. Application deadline is June 30, so apply today. Click here for more information and application.

Jeffrey Rusich has been named OPEIU Organizing Coordinator, where he will train and work with project organizers on large projects and organizing campaigns. Rusich has been an International staff representative for more than 25 years, most recently serving as a senior organizer. Previously, he was a Local 3 member and executive board member. He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay area.

In announcing the appointment, President Richard Lanigan said “OPEIU is refocusing its attention and resources on organizing and, as coordinator, Jeff will play a key role in that effort.”

One year ago today, on March 23, 2016, 600 dedicated Nabisco workers in Chicago were given pink slips by Mondelēz/Nabisco and told their jobs were being sent to Mexico. We stand in solidarity with the BCTGM Nabisco 600 workers and pledge to fight the outsourcing of American jobs! We stand in solidarity with the BCTGM Chicago Nabisco 600 workers! Join our pledge to only buy Nabisco products made in America and boycott Nabisco products made in Mexico! Watch and SHARE this video and help fight the outsourcing of American jobs!

Meet Kara Sheehan, a field organizer at the Texas AFL-CIO and member of the Office and Professional Employees International Union Local 298. Before joining the AFL-CIO, Sheehan worked with the Workers Defense Project and other local progressive groups in Austin, and worked at the Austin City Council.

She was born into the labor movement, where both her parents and grandparents raised her with the values of solidarity and intersectional movements.