Get involved with CSEA

Download a volunteer form (PDF 38KB)

As a CSEA member, you are part of the largest classified union in the nation. Despite our size, CSEA remains an organization of people. As a member-run union, we rely on members to step forward and contribute new ideas and new energy.

There are many ways you can get involved with CSEA. Local chapter meetings are open to all members and everyone is encouraged to attend. Talk with leaders of your chapter to find out what kind of help is needed.

Site Rep
A good "entry-level" job is site representative. Site rep duties are fairly easy and require a minimum amount of time (usually a couple of hours a month). Nonetheless, the site rep is a vital communication link between members and chapter leaders. Site reps keep bulletin boards updated; answer questions at their site or refer co-workers to the appropriate chapter officers and union staff for answers; welcome new employees and sign up new members; and relay information about problems and needs at their worksite back to chapter leaders.

Job Steward
If you really want to roll up your sleeves and help out members of your chapter, you can become a CSEA job steward. These volunteers protect employees' rights on the job, enforce the contract and keep management in check. It's a tough job requiring both knowledge and instinct, but as most stewards will tell you, the work is very rewarding. CSEA ensures that its job stewards get as much training as they need through the CSEA Steward Program. Participants get comprehensive training on everything from legal rights to listening skills.

Chapter officer
Each year members elect their co-workers to serve on the chapter executive board (president, vice-president(s), secretary, treasurer, etc.). These elections are open to any member in good standing. Maybe it's time for you to help run your chapter - maybe it's time to run for office. Again, CSEA provides chapter officers with plenty of training opportunities.

Chapter committees
Many chapters elect and appoint members to various standing and ad hoc committees. These committees handle everything from negotiations to welcoming new members. Joining a committee is another great way to get involved with your chapter.

Webmaster Program
Chapter Webmasters help keep members up-to-date on local news and events. CSEA provides its Webmasters with all the training and tools they need. If you’re interested in becoming a chapter Webmaster, get more information online, then talk to your chapter president.

Whatever you do, just remember that getting involved is the lifeblood of our union. The only way for us to grow and improve is if new volunteers like you get involved. Talk to someone today about how you can join the CSEA team.