2009 Classes

Spring 2009 Basic Union Counseling Course Agenda

Why Give? 

The AFL-CIO believes United Way is one of the most efficient, cost effective charitable organizations in the country. The United Way helps working families, the elderly, the disabled and high risk youth and all people in need. The United Ways work is particularly important in this time of recession and government cutbacks in social services.

• United way, working in partnership with the AFL-CIO Community Services program, helps support the AFL-CIO Union Counselor program, AFL-CIO Union food banks, services for unemployed, Information and Referral services for working people with problems, and Emergency Financial Assistance.
• United Way contributions fund local health and social services used by union families every day. Without United Way funding, many of these services would cease to exist. Those that would remain would have to spend most of their time and energy on raising money rather than helping people.
• United Way is one of the most cost effective charities in the country. Over 85% of every contributed dollar goes directly to helping people in need.
• United Way gives union members an effective vehicle for working with other community leaders to identify community problems and needs and to develop solutions.
• Organized labor has an opportunity to serve, as many do, on local United Way boards and committees that decide where charity dollars go.
• Over 180 local United Ways have hired full-time AFL-CIO Community Services Liaisons to work with union members, directing projects which help people in need.
• Major union affiliates of the AFL-CIO endorse United Way and encourage their members to contribute to this worthy cause.
• To assist fellow union Brothers and Sisters.

Read an endorsement from Edward J. McElroy, President of the American Federation of Teachers. Click here to download.