Union News, Service and Events update

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2026

From Struggle to Strength: A Legacy Formed Out of Resiliency!

Today, we welcome Black History Month! We’re thinking about the accomplishments, contributions, and culture of Black Americans all month. We’re studying the strategies, courage, and inspired genius of folks we’ve had the pleasure to share space with historically. At DC 37, Black History Month is a time of reflection on the Black union trailblazers who courageously supported the civil rights movement (a union issue!) and paved the way for us to continue the fight for justice and equality. Their daring to be powerful and impactful means we have a beacon to aspire to!

This month at 125 Barclay HQ, we have a series of events our Black History Month Committee put together, open to all members and their families. Will you be there? First up is our opening event TONIGHT at 6 p.m. with guest performances by award-winning actor, producer, director, Jazz vocalist, and Artistic Theater Director at Nuyorican Poet Cafe Rome Neal @romeneal52, and Reverend Selene Crawford of the Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church.

Opening Ceremony: Monday, February 2, at 6 p.m. Special Guest Performer: Reverend, Selene Crawford of the Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church.

Local 1930: Saturday, February 21, from 3-7 p.m. at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, 515 Malcolm X Blvd, New York, NY 10037

Local 372: Friday, February 20, 2026, from 7-11 p.m.

Local 2627: Thursday, February 26, at 6 p.m.

SSEU Local 371: Friday, February 6, at 5 p.m.

DC 37 Black History Finale, sponsored by Local 1549- Friday, February 27, at 6 p.m.

All programs are at DC 37 Headquarters at 125 Barclay Street unless otherwise noted.

VOLUNTEER FOR PROJECT HOPE

On the night of Tuesday, Feb. 3, the NYC Department of Social Services will conduct the 21st annual Homeless Outreach Population Estimate (HOPE) Survey– and NYC needs your help.

HOPE is a point-in-time survey undertaken each winter to estimate the number of New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness on one of the coldest nights of the year. The results gathered through this survey provide the city with valuable information that helps inform the allocation of resources to address homelessness.

Volunteers conduct the HOPE survey by canvassing streets, parks, subways, and other public spaces, and are needed from approximately 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on the night of January 27. Just a few hours of your time will help with ongoing efforts to support New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness and encourage them to take that first important step to leave the streets and subways and accept the vital services and support they need and deserve.

We encourage you to volunteer on your own or with friends and family. Please visit nyc.gov/hope to learn more and to register. There are HOPE training sites across the 5 boroughs you can select. Your participation is essential to helping address the challenge of homelessness and support some of our city’s most vulnerable residents as they get back on their feet.

Note: If you plan to volunteer and would like to be featured in PEPtalk to tell the story of your experience, please contact us at communications@dc37.net.

DC 37 SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE

DC 37 POLITICAL ACTION DEPARTMENT

Attend Political Action Committee Meetings

Join us for our monthly Political Action Committee Meetings to find out more about what’s happening in City Hall and Albany. Meetings usually take place on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6 p.m.

Next meeting: Thursday, February 12 | Register HERE.

Join the fight to get pro-worker candidates elected – support the DC 37 PEOPLE Program!

Under the new presidential administration, government jobs, safety net programs, and remote work options are under attack. We must support candidates who will fight against attempts to cut jobs and the advances we’ve fought hard for. By joining the PEOPLE Program — our DC 37 political action fund — we can get leaders in office 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-worker candidates, and other important activities that we are restricted from using dues money to conduct.

Join PEOPLE HERE.

2026 DC 37 Lobby Day

Save the date for our 2026 Lobby Day! On Wednesday, March 4, we will travel to Albany to speak with State legislators about Tier 6 Reform, Taxing the rich, workplace safety, and other legislative priorities.

Buses will depart from DC 37 headquarters at 125 Barclay Street, New York, NY 10007. Registration is required. Register HERE to participate.

DC 37 MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES HOUSING PROGRAM

First-Time Homebuyer’s 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, February 7, 11 a.m. | Register HERE.

Saturday, February 21, 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 want 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 & Answer session after the presentation. We hope to see you there!

Thursday, January 15, 6:15 p.m. | Register HERE.

DC 37 PRIDE DIVERSITY INTEREST GROUP (PDIG)

The DC 37 Pride Diversity Interest Group (PDIG) meets every second Monday at 6:30 p.m. at DC 37 Headquarters. For more information, contact Committee Chair Andrew Douglas at adouglas@sseu371.org.

DC 37 CLIMATE JUSTICE COMMITTEE

The DC 37 Climate Justice Committee will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 6 p.m. via Zoom and telephone. During the meeting, the Committee will discuss our work, including supporting the TEMP Bill in Albany, environmental contract recommendations, and addressing extreme temperatures in school kitchens, while working to improve ventilation and address additional environmental issues in our public schools. For more information and the Zoom link, contact Jon Forster, Co-Chair of the Climate Justice Committee, at 4unionnow@gmail.com.

DC 37 HOUSING COMMITTEE

Please join the DC 37 Housing Committee’s virtual meeting on Monday, Feb. 2, at 6 p.m. Housing Committee Chair and President of Local 1359 Dennis Ifill will discuss housing issues, resources, and upcoming events. You must register to attend HERE. The virtual meeting room opens at 5:50 p.m., and the meeting begins at 6 p.m.

DC 37 EDUCATION FUND

The Education Fund Is Still Accepting Applications for Winter 2026 Classes!

If you are looking to enroll in an Education Fund program, now is the time to apply. Space in many programs is limited, so to find out what is available to apply for a course, view our list of programs by clicking HERE.

Changes To Tuition Reimbursement Benefit

Beginning with classes, courses, and workshops taken on or after January 1, 2024, eligible DC 37 members can now be reimbursed up to $1,500 by the DC 37 Education Fund if the requirements for reimbursement are met. Additionally, tuition reimbursement applications can now be submitted completely online. For more information on the changes to the reimbursement benefit, please click HERE.

COMPTIA+ Certification Classes for DC 37 Members

The Education Fund, in conjunction with CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC), offers various CompTIA+ certification courses. Each course prepares members to sit for certification exams such as CompTIA Linux+ and Network+. Each course has specific prerequisites and requirements, so it is essential to ensure you are able and eligible to take them. For more information on the courses with CUNY BMCC, click HERE.

Computer Classes for DC 37 Members

The Education Fund has various computer classes in Microsoft Office applications for interested members. Please see the schedules and registration links below:

Hostos Community College Online Sessions

Course Schedule:

Microsoft Office Certificate Level I, Tuesdays/Thursdays, 6:00p.m. – 9:00p.m.- Feb.17-Apr.23 – Online REGISTER HERE
Microsoft Office Certificate Level II, Tuesdays/Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Feb.17-Apr.23 – Online REGISTER HERE
Microsoft Office Certificate Level I, Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Feb.21-Mar.16- Online REGISTER HERE
Microsoft Excel Expert- Level 3, Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Hostos Community College) Feb. 21 – May 16, Online REGISTER HERE

DC 37/CUNY SLU Labor Certificate and Degree Program

The DC 37 Education Fund, in partnership with the CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies (SLU) is currently accepting applicants for its partnership certificate and degree program for the Fall 2026 semester. Eligible union members can receive tuition coverage for up to 4 courses (16 credits), fully funded by the DC37 Education Fund. These courses can lead to an undergraduate or graduate certificate in Labor Relations or start you on your path towards an undergraduate degree (in Labor Studies or in Urban and Community Relations) or a graduate degree in Labor Studies.

Interested members must apply to the Education Fund first and attend a mandatory information session to be accepted into the partnership program. If you are interested in this program and would like more information or to apply, please click HERE.

Education and Career Counseling

Do you need guidance on selecting a class, such as updating your resume, or assistance reaching a career or educational goal? Contact an Ed Fund counselor HERE to schedule a virtual appointment.

Free Community College for New York State Residents

Starting this Fall, community college at the CUNY and SUNY level will be completely free for adult learners looking to enter high-demand fields. Because no one should have to choose between financial security and a college education.

CUNY and SUNY Reconnect will give students the opportunity to pursue their career goals and prepare for meaningful, high-demand careers right here in New York State. And the Reconnect programs don’t just cover tuition – they cover the cost of books, fees, and supplies for students, too.

You can attend community college for FREE starting next term if you:

Are a resident of New York State or eligible for in-state tuition
Are between the ages of 25-55
Do not currently have a degree
Are planning to study full-time or part-time in one of 175 eligible SUNY associate degree programs or one of 120+ eligible CUNY associate degree programs

Members interested in free CUNY community college can apply for an appointment with a CUNY advisor by clicking HERE. If you can’t find a date/time that works for you, email: CUNYDays@slu.cuny.edu

For more information on CUNY Reconnect, click HERE. For more information on SUNY Reconnect, click HERE.

CUNY Counseling Is Here for You!

This is the ideal time to plan for enrollment at the CUNY college of your choice. Let Worker Education at the CUNY School of Labor & Urban Studies (SLU) help guide you through the process of finding the best CUNY program to match your education and career goals. Expert advisors offer FREE one-on-one phone sessions on academic requirements for specific jobs; choosing a CUNY campus and major; applying to and financing a CUNY degree; certificate and non-credit options at CUNY; transferring previous credits, and more. Each session is free and caters to your specific goals and needs. To view the calendar and schedule your CUNY advisement session, click HERE.

Can’t find a date/time that works for you? Email: CUNYDays@slu.cuny.edu.

The CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies Offers Leap to Teacher

Advance your education in any field with the LEAP to Teacher Program serving all school and daycare workers. Open the door to your future! LEAP to Teacher (LTT) provides a specialized set of support services designed to empower you to become more effective in your schools and more impactful in your communities. The LTT program can assist you with pursuing your undergraduate or graduate degree in any field of study, from the pre-admission stage through graduation.

For more information, please contact: ltt@slu.cuny.edu, call 646-313-8532, or visit our website HERE.

DC 37 NON-PROFIT PRIVATE SECTOR EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

DC 37 Non-Profit and Private Sector Members represented by Locals 95, 205, 215, 253, 389, and 571 are eligible for the following exciting education-related and upgrading skills opportunities in 2026.

For more information about these programs, call (212) 341-4991 or email mhunte@dc37.net.

WORKSHOPS (virtual)

Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) workshop: March 2 & March 4, from 5-8 p.m. (MUST attend BOTH days)
Continuing Teacher Leader Education (CTLE): Active and competent supervision – In Depth February 26 5:30-8:30 p.m.

PREPARATION CLASSES (virtual)

Child Development Associate (CDA) new class begins on February 3 ends on June 25, from 5:45-8:45pm
Content Specialty Test (CST) – Arts & Sciences: 2/17/26, 2/18/26, 2/24/26, 2/25/26, 3/3/26 & 3/4/26 (6 sessions) from 6 to 8 p.m.
Content Specialty Test (CST) – Math: 2/21/26, 2/28/26, 3/7/26, 3/14/26, 3/21/26 & 3/28/26 (6 sessions) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Educating All Students (EAS): 2/23/26, 3/2/26, 3/9/26 & 3/16/26 (4 sessions) from 6 to 8 p.m.
Assessment of Teacher Assistant Skills (ATAS): 2/21/26, 2/28/26, 3/7/26 & 3/14/26 (4 sessions) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (for paraprofessionals)
Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) exam prep: 2/11/26, 2/18/26 & 2/25/26 from 6-8 p.m. (for social workers)

SCHOLARSHIPS
The website for the Educational Incentive Program (EIP) is at www.ecetp.pdp.albany.edu. This scholarship is awarded based on income and gives up to $2,500 per year for college courses and up to $1,250 for the CDA. This scholarship is only for classroom personnel.

AFSCME scholarships are open to all members
Union Plus College Program: Union members and their families can earn an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree 100% online while minimizing out-of-pocket costs through exclusive union discounts, financial aid, and grants.

Various CUNY and SUNY colleges are offering free Associate degree programs in high-demand industries for eligible students. Students may be eligible if they are New York residents, are between the ages of 25-55, and do not already have a college degree. Some programs can be completed online. See links below for more info. Please direct any further questions to the colleges that are offering these opportunities.

Shop Steward Training

Shop Steward class begins on February 5 from 6-8 p.m. This class is virtual. To register please click HERE.

HOSPITAL FOR SPECIAL SURGERY (HSS)

Build Better Bones for Better Health

Did you know peak bone mass usually occurs by the age of 25 and then slowly declines over time? Learn from the experts at HSS some strategies you can use to build better bone health.

Whether it be bones, muscles or joints, HSS is here for you and your family. The HSS Care Concierge team will connect you with in-network care at one of our convenient locations in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut.

Connect with HSS TODAY:

Call: 212.606.1105
Email: HSS4DC37@hss.edu
Visit: HSS.edu/DC37

MSK DIRECT

The Power of Healthy Habits and Early Detection

We are holding a webinar on Feb. 11. Register to join MSK’s Jessica Scott for a discussion on how healthy habits and early detection can reduce cancer risk.

DC 37 partners with Memorial Sloan Kettering to offer MSK Direct, a program that offers guided access to exceptional cancer care for all employees and their family members. If you or a loved one is impacted by cancer and would like to explore the options at MSK, call DC 37’s dedicated phone number: 833-786-3365 or visit mskcc.org/dc37.