STEWARD HANDBOOK

HOW TO USE THIS HANDBOOK
The contents of this AFSCME Steward Handbook were developed to help
you become an effective steward. A wealth of information is packed into
these pages: everything from steward responsibilities to grievance-handling
skills, from legal issues to the history of AFSCME. While every piece of
information may not apply to your specific circumstances, apply those principles
and guidelines that do.
The handbook is divided into two main parts: the various roles and
functions of the steward as a leader, communicator, organizer and representative;
and the tools and resources to perform the duties of an AFSCME
steward in enforcing the contract and handling grievances.
Scattered throughout the handbook are a collection of “Bright Ideas,”
tips or guidelines to shed some light on various topics. So, the next time
someone asks, “Who had that bright idea?” you can say that you did – the
AFSCME steward.
AFSCME is committed to training and developing a topnotch cadre of
stewards. AFSCME Stewards in Action is a two-day training program that
will provide you with the knowledge and skills to be an effective and powerful
AFSCME steward. By attending Stewards in Action, you can find new
ways to engage members and bring fresh ideas to handling grievances. The
program is taught by talented staff and members who successfully completed
the AFSCME Educator Program. To request a Stewards in Action training,
contact your AFSCME staff representative or the national union regional
office nearest to you. A list of regional offices is in Section 8: All About
AFSCME.
This handbook is another critical component of our commitment to
steward training. The AFSCME Steward Handbook is your tool for learning
through experience and the experience of others. Use it!
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