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This course focuses on building strong, sustainable relationships between unions and their members. Students will explore practical tools and proven strategies for engaging members at every stage of involvement—from initial outreach to long-term leadership development. Emphasis is placed on effective communication techniques that build trust, motivate participation, and strengthen collective identity.
Participants will examine methods for identifying and developing member leaders, fostering inclusive and representative participation, and creating structures that encourage shared ownership of union goals. The class also addresses common barriers to engagement and offers strategies for reaching underrepresented or disengaged members. Through discussion, case studies, and applied exercises, students will leave with concrete approaches they can adapt to their own organizations to increase participation, build solidarity, and strengthen union power.
Key outcomes
- Identify strategies to engage members at different levels of participation.
- Apply effective communication techniques to build trust and encourage member involvement.
- Develop approaches to identify, mentor and implement strategies to address them.
- Design engagement plans that promote inclusive participation and strengthen collective action.
Who should enroll
- Union organizers and staff responsible for member engagement
- Local union leaders and stewards
- Worker center staff and organizers
- Staff and leaders involved in leadership development, member programs, or internal organizing
Instructor
