During July, NAPE/AFSCME Volunteer Member Organizers (VMOs) visited more than 30 worksites across Nebraska to talk with state employees about their priorities for upcoming contract negotiations. More than 1,300 state employees stopped by to chat with our VMOs between July 20-24!
Volunteer Member Organizers are dedicated union members who are committed to growing our membership so we have more power at the bargaining table. This year, forty VMOs came to Lincoln for a weekend of training with their fellow union members.
“I loved training with union members I had never met before, especially those who came from out of town,” said Nate Kreutzer (DWEE, Lincoln). A number of VMOs traveled from the panhandle to participate. “Being a VMO was an amazing opportunity to travel and see the diversity of state worksites,” said Marisol Myers (NDVA, Scottsbluff). “Scottsbluff is so much smaller, and it was so great to see all the different work our members do at all the different agencies.”
Our VMOs visited worksites in Beatrice, Bellevue, Kearney, Lincoln, Norfolk, North Platte, Omaha, and Scottsbluff during 4,000 Forward Week. Not only did they grow our union membership, they grew their own skills. “I’ve gotten so much more comfortable listening to members and their concerns,” said Daniel Watson (Labor, Lincoln). “I’m also more confident in sharing our vision for addressing those concerns during contract negotiations.”
If you are interested in becoming a NAPE/AFSCME VMO, attend a NAPE/AFSCME leadership training course. We have upcoming leadership training classes in Scottsbluff (August 29 & 30) and Lincoln (November 14 & 15). All union members are welcome to attend any leadership training. Sign up here.
If you’re nervous to get involved, there is no risk in training. “The training sets you up for success,” said Cat Cooper (NDVA, Scottsbluff). “Listening to our members and getting their story was very meaningful. I’m definitely coming back again next year!”