Conference bolsters member support

By DEBORAH A. MILES
Dozens of PEF Region 10 members gathered in mid-June at a membership conference held in Suffern to learn, network and discuss the challenges they face at their worksites.

PEF Region 10 Coordinator Vernetta Chesimard said the third annual conference was designed to focus on issues germane to today’s work force. The topics covered included members’ rights under the PS&T contract when faced with counseling or interrogation, the complexities of the workers compensation system and the importance of rapid mobilization.

“The information from the workshops and discussions with other members was invaluable,” said Clifvon Jones, an underwriter at the state Insurance Fund.

“There was a great exchange of ideas. It was interesting to meet PEF members from different agencies. Some of them work two blocks away from my worksite. The conference provided a meeting ground. I found they have some of the same issues and challenges in their agencies we have at the state Insurance Fund,” Jones said.

It was the first PEF membership conference she has attended. Jones said it helped her realize how strong PEF is as a union, but members must contribute and participate to make the union even stronger.

Renee McCauley, a Medicaid service coordinator at Metro NY Developmental Disabilities Services Office, echoed that sentiment.

“It’s important to get involved, be informed and know your rights,” McCauley said.

“It’s very important for members to be a part of what is going on.

“The conference also provided a safe haven where everyone could be candid about the serious things that go on in our job sites. The workshops and discussions helped with problem solving and dealing with day-to-day activities and how to handle yourself with your supervisor or with co-workers,” McCauley said.

Among the things that impressed McCauley most were the words offered by PEF President Ken Brynien.

“President Brynien showed us he is accessible to members,” McCauley said. “He offered to come out and stand and support the membership, no matter how small the group. I was touched to see he is really there for us, feels our pain and understands.”

Chesimard said the conference was successful because of the member participation, the high caliber of the workshop leaders, and the positive energy flowing from members to bolster the union.