Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/462877
12 CINEMONTAGE / WINTER 2015 advantage of interacting with other members before and after the shows. Look for special e-mails from events@editorsguild.com promoting these various screenings. Networking mixers are held on both coasts in trendy bars and restaurants, encouraging members to get to know one another, and the Guild staff, outside the working environment. In January, at our "Post" Holiday Mixer, members can win raffle prizes and gifts. In April, LA members can attend our Bowling Mixer, and in September, both coasts host events: In New York, Guild members join other IATSE and industry members in a Labor Day Parade, followed by libations and food, while Los Angeles has a "Post" Labor Day Picnic, usually at the LA Equestrian Center in Burbank — a great event for the members and their families. Check the events calendar at www.editorsguild.com/ events.cfm or watch for e-mails. RESOURCES FOR JOB SEEKERS Unlike some unions that operate as hiring halls, our Guild does not find work for its members. In a job market that can be competitive, with qualifications highly subjective, the union doesn't decide who gets hired. However, there are plenty of tools available for members looking for work. First and foremost is the Guild's Availability List, which you are highly encouraged to join if you are out of work. The Availability List is exactly that: a list of members who are available for work, in various classifications, that signatory employers can access should they need to fill job openings. Members in a position to recommend another member for a job can now access the list as well. The Guild recognizes the benefits of members helping fellow members find work. Keeping your online resume up-to-date is important because it can be accessed 24/7, and the Guild's website allows members to create resumes online and download them as PDF files or e-mail them with cover sheets in a moment's notice. The Post-Production Contact list offers direct access to contacts at studios and union facilities that are in key positions to hire us. And if you feel an agent would be helpful, access a list of all agents representing post-production professionals. All of this information is available in the Members Only section of the Guild website. ADDITIONAL BENEFITS AND SERVICES Besides the Motion Picture Industry Plans (MPIPHP) and the National Benefit Funds benefits, members also have access to programs provided by other organizations such as the Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF) and the Actors' Fund of America. Many of the various services can be found at www.editorsguild.com/emergencyresources.cfm. The MPTF provides temporary financial assistance, basic medical care for those who are not covered under MPIPHP, assistance with aging concerns and discounted gym memberships. For more information, visit www.mptf.com. The Actors' Fund of America also provides financial assistance and social services, as well as a variety of workshops and seminars that cover topics such as job search strategies, resume writing and career assessment. Visit www.actorsfund.org/services-and- programs/social-services-and-financial-assistance. Members also have access to all discounts provided through Union Plus, which can be found at www.unionplus.org and vary from insurance to travel to educational scholarships for members and their children. WHAT CAN YOU DO? The Guild is a democratic organization. Members need to vote, participate in online and in-person discussions about matters of importance and play a role in steering the union. Get to know your field reps and develop a relationship with them; it will then be easier to reach out when there is an issue. Invite them to your cutting rooms and visit them during the "Coffee with the Reps" visits. They are here to help you and be your best ally. Also, know the contract you are working under and honor its provisions. If you are asked to violate the contract or see contract violations occurring, contact your field reps — they will help you navigate those tricky situations. In addition, get physically involved. The Board of Directors is comprised of elected volunteers from the membership to represent their respective MEMBERSHIP OUTREACH CONTINUED ON PAGE 53 Assistant editors Rahul Das, left, and Cary Israel relax at the Guild's "Post" Holiday Mixer, held at Busby's East in Los Angeles. Photo by Deverill Weekes