Union News and Events Update for August

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY WITH DC 37!

This Labor Day weekend, head over to DC 37’s headquarters to join your union siblings and celebrate your hard work to keep New York City running! On Saturday, Sept. 5, DC 37 is hosting a Labor Day celebration with games, giveaways, music, food, union swag, and lots of fun for the whole family! The first 500 members to arrive will receive a limited edition DC 37 t-shirt! Drop by or stay the entire day!

Saturday, Sept. 5 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at 125 Barclay | Free to attend. RSVP HERE.

MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES LEGAL SERVICES (MELS)

Temporary Protected Status Expiration: What It Means and How To Prepare

Recent Supreme Court decisions and federal government actions have ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for immigrants from Haiti and Syria effective July 27, 2026, and put programs for immigrants from El Salvador in jeopardy.

Although many other TPS holders still have valid status and work authorization, protections may end with little notice. TPS holders should prepare now, seek qualified legal advice, and continue checking official sources for updates.

What TPS Holders Should Do Now

• Speak with a qualified immigration lawyer or DOJ-accredited representative.  Ask whether you may qualify for asylum, adjustment of status, a family-based or employment-based visa, or another form of immigration relief.
• Make a family preparedness plan. Organize important documents, identify emergency contacts, and decide who could care for children or other family members in case of detention, deportation, or family separation. MELS attorneys can assist with standby guardianships of minor children.
  Prepare for possible changes at work. Keep copies of your Employment Authorization Document and any TPS or work-permit renewal notices.
• Stay in contact with your union. Contact your union representative immediately if your employer questions your work authorization or immigration status.
• Watch out for scams. Do not rely on “notarios” or anyone who promises guaranteed immigration results. Only seek help from a licensed immigration attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative.

What Happens When TPS Ends

The government typically gives a short transition period during which recipients’ status and work authorizations remain active. When the transition period ends, beneficiaries revert to the immigration status they held before being granted TPS. Those without status are vulnerable to deportation.

Legal Help and Resources

• To get information and referrals for legal help, call the NYS Office for New Americans Hotline at 1-800-566-7636.
• New York City residents may also call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 1-800-354-0365, or call 311 and say “Immigration Legal.”
• View the National Immigration Legal Services Directory.
• Stay up to date with USCIS Temporary Protected Status Updates.

If you are a DC 37 member covered by the DC 37 Health & Security Plan, contact Municipal Employees Legal Services at 212-815-1111.

This notice is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice.

DC 37 POLITICAL ACTION

Support the DC 37 PEOPLE Program!

There’s a lot on the line this year. The results of the 2026 congressional and presidential elections will determine the fate of workers and communities across the nation. In addition to our work to get pro-worker candidates into office, the DC 37 Political Action team is fighting for reforms to the Tier 6 pension system, fair funding for city and state agencies, and a host of other crucial issues.

Your support for the PEOPLE Program will help us elect leaders who will fight for workers’ rights over corporate greed. PEOPLE contributions are used for Get Out the Vote campaigns, lobbying on member issues, directly supporting pro-workers candidates, and other important activities that we are restricted from funding with dues money. Join PEOPLE HERE!

Sign up for PEOPLE as an MVP contributor and get a PEOPLE MVP hoodie!

DC 37 AT THE YANKEES

Join District Council 37 and the New York Yankees for a fun-filled day at Yankee Stadium in late August!

Game Dates

Against Division rivals, the Toronto Blue Jays:

• Friday, August 21, 7:05 p.m.
• Saturday, August 22, 1:35 p.m.
• Sunday, August 23, 1:35 p.m.

Against the Houston Astros:

• Tuesday, August 25, 7:05 p.m.
• Wednesday, August 26, 7:05 p.m.
• Thursday, August 27, 7:05 p.m.

Each Ticket includes:

• An exclusive New York Yankees DC 37 Jersey
• $15 New York Yankees Food & Beverage Voucher

The Yankees will send your tickets to the email address you used for purchase. Jersey and voucher pickup instructions will also be provided via email prior to the event. Click HERE to sign up!

DC 37 HEALTH & SECURITY PLAN

Personal Service Unit: Addressing Burnout

Burnout — a concept we are familiar with but often don’t recognize until it is impacting our functioning. Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental fatigue caused by ongoing stress. Contributing factors include long work hours, caregiving, chronic stress, lack of recovery time, and workplace conflicts.

Burnout doesn’t develop overnight; it’s a gradual process, so it is important to recognize signs early:

• Physical Symptoms: Headaches, digestive issues, chronic fatigue (even after a full night’s sleep) or changes in sleep and appetite.
• Increased Irritability: Small inconveniences can feel like major frustrations.
• Lack of Motivation: Tasks that once brought satisfaction now feel overwhelming or pointless.
• Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and social obligations.

Burnout can often be prevented or addressed by balancing periods of effort with regular recovery and addressing sources of chronic stress before they become overwhelming.

• Set boundaries
• Prioritize tasks
• Keep a sustainable schedule and take breaks
• Protect your sleep and take time to recharge
• Stay connected to others and maintain healthy habits

If you are experiencing burnout and would like help – contact the Personal Service Unit to speak with a Licensed Social Worker for confidential therapy or referrals. Call 212-815-1250 between 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, for an assessment.

DC 37 EMPLOYEES HOUSING PROGRAM

MEHP First Time Homebuyers Workshop

MEHP is excited to present a First Time Homebuyer's Workshop. Discover the details of the mortgage process, explore special programs and grants created for first-time buyers, and gain expert guidance from housing specialists. This workshop will equip you with the knowledge and resources you need to confidently take the next step toward owning your home.

Saturday, August 8, at 11 a.m. | Register HERE.

Saturday, August 22, at 11 a.m. | Register HERE.

MCU First Time Homebuyer Workshop

Are you thinking of buying your first home but don’t know where to begin? The DC 37 Municipal Employees Housing Program is pleased to announce the MCU First Time Homebuyer Workshop. Join us as we discuss the mortgage process. We would like to assist you on your journey to homeownership. We will cover pre-approvals, debt to income ratios, PMI, FHA loans, Conventional Loans, and much more. We will have a Question and Answer session after the presentation. We hope to see you there!

Thursday, August 13, at 6 p.m. | Register HERE.

DC 37 EDUCATION FUND

Getting Started with A.I.

For the Summer 2026 cycle, the DC 37 Education Fund, in partnership with CUNY LaGuardia, will offer an introductory three-hour course for students with no prior technical experience.

Students will learn the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence, explore real-world applications, and understand how AI is shaping industries and everyday life. The course will include a hands-on demonstration of Orange Data Mining, a no-code AI tool. Students will also explore generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and learn basic prompt-engineering techniques for learning, creativity, and productivity.

Requirement: Basic computer knowledge

Interested members may apply for one of the following sessions through the DC 37 Education Fund Academy:

• Thursday, July 30
• Thursday, August 6
• Wednesday, September 30

Fall Training Programs

Members can view and apply for the following programs through the DC 37 Education Fund Academy.

CompTIA Network+—BMCC

This training prepares IT professionals to establish, manage, and troubleshoot secure wired and wireless networks. It covers network architecture, cloud and virtualization, security, and performance monitoring while preparing participants for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.

Prerequisite: Current CompTIA A+ certification
Schedule: Monday-Thursday, 6-9 p.m.
Dates: September 28-December 15

CompTIA Security+—BMCC

This training develops the essential cybersecurity skills needed to perform core security functions and prepares participants for the CompTIA Security+ certification exam.

Prerequisite: Current CompTIA A+ certification
Schedule: Monday-Thursday, 6-9 p.m.
Dates: September 14-December 15

EKG Technician—BMCC

This training prepares participants to operate electrocardiogram equipment and monitor patients’ heart health in clinical settings.

Prerequisite: High school diploma or GED
Schedule: Tuesday and Thursday, 6-9 p.m.
Dates: September 29, 2026-March 6, 2027

Phlebotomy Technician

This hands-on training prepares participants to safely collect blood and other laboratory specimens for diagnostic testing.

Prerequisite: High school diploma or GED
Schedule: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Dates: September 19, 2026-February 6, 2027

Certified Nurse Aide—BMCC

This training prepares participants to provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.

Prerequisite: High school diploma or GED
Schedule: Monday-Thursday, 6-9 p.m.
Dates: September 28-December 10

CompTIA A+—Monroe University

This entry-level IT certification training prepares participants for careers in help desk and technical support through instruction in computer hardware, software, troubleshooting, security, and networking. A skills evaluation will be conducted on the first day to determine course placement.

Prerequisite: High school diploma or GED
Schedule: Monday and Wednesday, 6-8:30 p.m.
Dates: October 5-December 2

Certified Coding Associate—Monroe University

This entry-level medical coding course prepares participants for the AHIMA Certified Coding Associate exam. Course materials and the exam fee are included.

Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED; previous medical records or coding experience is preferred but not required.
Schedule: Monday and Wednesday, 6-8:30 p.m.
Dates: October 5, 2026-May 12, 2027

Certified Coding Specialist—Monroe University

This advanced medical coding course covers medical terminology, ICD-10, CPT coding, reimbursement systems, and regulatory guidelines. A one-week exam review session is included.

Prerequisites: Current CCA or CPC certification, or membership in Local 768 and employment as a Medical Records Librarian or Medical Records Specialist. Documentation of current certification or significant verifiable inpatient and outpatient medical coding experience is required.
Schedule: Monday and Wednesday
Dates: January 25-May 19, 2027

Members can apply for these programs and view additional training opportunities through the DC 37 Education Fund Academy.

Education and Career Counseling

Do you need guidance selecting a class, updating your résumé, or reaching a career or educational goal? Register through the DC 37 Education Fund Academy or email AChensee@dc37.net to contact an Education Fund counselor.

High School Equivalency Diploma

The GED exam is available to New York State residents age 19 and older. It consists of four subtests, with Reading and Writing combined into Reasoning Through Language Arts. Passing scores from previous GED, TASC, or New York State Regents exams may count toward one or more subtests.

Eligible members can take GED preparation classes in English or Spanish online, in person, or in a hybrid format. To view available classes, please register through the DC 37 Education Fund Academy or email ppunch@dc37.net.

Free Community College for New York State Residents

Beginning this fall, eligible adult learners can attend participating CUNY and SUNY community colleges tuition-free while pursuing degrees in high-demand fields. CUNY and SUNY Reconnect may also cover the cost of books, fees, and supplies.

Applicants must:

• Be New York State residents or qualify for in-state tuition
• Be between the ages of 25 and 55
• Not currently have a college degree
• Plan to study full-time or part-time in an eligible CUNY or SUNY associate degree program

Members interested in free CUNY community college can apply for an appointment with a CUNY advisor by clicking HERE. For scheduling assistance, email CUNYDays@slu.cuny.edu. Additional information about CUNY and SUNY Reconnect is available through the corresponding links.

CUNY Counseling Is Here for You!

Worker Education at the CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies offers free, individual phone sessions to help members select a CUNY campus and major, understand academic requirements, apply for financial assistance, transfer previous credits, and explore degree, certificate, and non-credit programs.

To schedule a CUNY advisement session, click HERE. If you cannot find a suitable appointment, email CUNYDays@slu.cuny.edu.