Dream It, Be It, Career Support for Girls
This program introduced USW members and union jobs to young women in the virtual Dream it, Be It, Career Support for Girls project. Participants, some of whom were members’ daughters, met professional role models, did skills training in areas like customer service awareness and WHIMIS, and took part in fun physical activities, all through Zoom!
Theme areas: Supporting Steelworker Families, Promoting USW in the Community, Supporting and Engaging New Activists, Supporting & Engaging Young Activists
Date: April 2020
Location: Brantford, ON area
Funds allocated: $5,000
Participants: 70 people including community partner presenters and youth participants
Local 2251 Women of Steel barbecue
Prior to the event, members of the local’s Women of Steel Committee, who work in the trades, knocked on doors in the community to invite families to this free event. The goal of the barbecue was to spark conversations about women in non-traditional occupations. The event attracted media attention, with the local newspaper, The Sault This Week, featuring a front-page article about the event with photos. To read the article, follow the link – https://www.saultthisweek.com/news/local-news/women-in-trades-highlight-of-local-2251-event
Theme areas: Supporting Steelworker Families, Promoting USW in the Community, Supporting and Engaging New Activists
Date: August 24, 2019
Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Funds allocated: $7,300
Participants: 800 people from across the community
Mentorship program
This program matches newer activists/ learners with mentors based on learning goals and strengths. During a two-day orientation session, mentoring partners first meet each other, create a bond, learn communication techniques, and develop a learning plan. Afterward, participants continue to meet via phone, skype, or platforms at least once a month for the next 12 months.
Theme areas: Supporting & Engaging Young Activists, Supporting & Engaging New Activists
Date: March 2019 to October 2020
Location: Across District 6
Funds allocated: $175,000
Participants: 66 new and seasoned activists and leaders
