Successful Blitz Day recruits more than 800 potential members

by Shannon Carr

Recruiting new members is an ongoing goal that CSEA approaches in many ways, including with statewide Blitz Days. During these events, which occur four times a year, staff team up with members to visit potential members at worksites, share the benefits of joining the union and encourage them to join. A recent Blitz Day occurred on October 19, when 116 staff members went out with 206 members to canvass more than 600 sites across California. They successfully collected 816 enrollment forms and signed up 364 people for the Victory Club. Fresno Chapter 125 alone saw more than 40 sign-ups.

CSEA membership recruitment Blitz Day in San Bernardino.

This was a tremendous success despite new difficulties resulting from the pandemic, including the challenge of locating potential members who are out because of quarantine. Veronica Alcantar, a cafeteria clerk who serves as 1st vice president and union steward with Soledad Chapter 457, has participated in four Blitz Days, including the latest one. She said she enjoys talking to different classified employees to help increase membership rates and strengthen their ability to advocate for themselves and their coworkers. “It’s really important to be united,” she said. “That’s why we try to get more members.”

Alcantar visited five sites and converted seven potential members, crediting her success to having a positive attitude. The October event was the first Blitz Day that has been held since before the pandemic began, on November 14, 2019. Alcantar explained that membership recruitment is very important for the health and strength of CSEA chapters and the Association. She added that members’ voices are stronger at the bargaining table and stronger statewide when a high percentage of the workers in each bargaining unit are members of their union.

CSEA will continue to use Statewide Blitz Days in the 2021-2022 school year as a part of its program to recruit members. Scheduled Blitz Days for the year include:

• Thursday, March 17, 2022

• Tuesday, May 3, 2022

If you are a member who is interested in volunteering in an upcoming Blitz Day, contact your Labor Relations Representative.