Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/508104
SAGAFTRA.org | Spring 2015 | SAG-AFTRA 23 said Howard, "and, as I have visited locals around the country since then, I see that members' commitment and passion haven't waned. For our union to realize its true potential, we need to harness this enthusiasm." The concept for the initiative grew as Howard visited locals across the nation and spoke with members from all categories. In a key meeting with New York singers and dancers, the concept really began to take shape. Last year, as things settled down post-merger and several major contract negotiations concluded, Howard discussed the idea with National Executive Director David White and shaped what would become the PTEOE. "Engagement is key to SAG-AFTRA's success, and an informed, active membership is our most valuable asset," said Executive Vice President Gabrielle Carteris. "When we utilize that resource, collectively we can achieve anything." "Relationships are a critical component in reaching the best deal. I see this initiative as all about building relationships — between the members and the union, between the members and the industry, and among the members themselves. In an industry built so heavily on relationships, I expect this effort to provide benefits beyond our initial goals," said White. Howard established the Task Force, and the SAG-AFTRA National Board approved his appointment, as well as that of Carteris; Vice President, Broadcasters Catherine Brown; and National Board members Rebecca Damon and Ellen Crawford as voting members; and Vice President, Recording Artists Dan Navarro; N.Y. Board member and dancer Jamal Story; and National Board member Abby Dylan as alternates. The MEMBERS ENGAGE WITH NEW RESOURCES E ducation is a key component to the task force, and this includes supplying member leaders with a comprehensive toolkit — written material, videos, webinars and seminars — to assist those on the local level in engaging not only fellow union members, but pre-members as well. Understanding how the union works was a first step in this education effort. On April 1, the Task Force presented a pair of two-hour Web-based governance and leadership orientations. The webinars provided an overview of the union's governance structure, including the purview of the National Board, convention and office of the president. Executive Vice President Gabrielle Carteris, assisted by Chief Operating Officer/General Counsel Duncan Crabtree- Ireland, led the presentation. Leaders also received an overview of the ways the union works to empower members and protect their rights. The education outreach continues with the new information booklet Working for You, which provides a lot of information, including benefits available to members, who to call and other valuable information. A copy of the booklet was mailed to each member receiving this issue of SAG-AFTRA magazine, and will be available for members at meetings and other events. Task Force members participate in various outreach communications, including video messages and webinars. From top, SAG-AFTRA President Ken Howard; N.Y. Local Board member Jamal Story and National Board member Rebecca Damon; Vice President, Recording Artists Dan Navarro; Vice President, Broadcasters Catherine Brown; and National Board member Abby Dylan. SAGAFTRA.org | Spring 2015 | SAG-AFTRA 23