Display event - Affiliate Leadership Training Summit/Human Relations Conf.

Affiliate Leadership Training Summit/Human Relations Conf.

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2. Select a REGISTRATION OPTION (If you are contributing to US FIREPAC, you must confirm the statements, Click SAVE Responses & proceed to step 3).

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If you want FIREPAC credit for 2024, you must wait until January 1 to register. FIREPAC contributions made before January 1, 2024, will be applied to your 2023 contribution totals.

IAFF members may join the FIREPAC Cornerstone Council, Chairman’s Council or FIREPAC Leadership Trust (U.S. and Canada) when registering. The FIREPAC option is available only to IAFF members. United States federal election law prohibits the solicitation of non-IAFF members.

Your decision to contribute via this FIREPAC option is purely voluntary and the suggested FIREPAC contribution amounts are merely guidelines. You are free to contribute more or less than the suggested amounts and you will not be favored or disadvantaged by reason of the amount of your contribution or decision not to contribute to FIREPAC.

1. Your personal, voluntary FIREPAC contribution by personal credit card of $500 or more ($650 standard registration) provides you membership in the Leadership Trust, $800 FIREPAC contribution provides you membership in the Chairman’s Council or $1000 FIREPAC contribution provides you membership in the Cornerstone Council.

2. U.S. members who select one of the FIREPAC options to register must submit a personal check payable to IAFF FIREPAC or use a personal credit card. U.S. Members cannot use a union or corporate check/credit card or seek reimbursement for their contribution to FIREPAC.

3. One person cannot write a personal check or use a personal credit card to cover multiple registrants contributing to FIREPAC.

Please note that contributions to FIREPAC are not tax deductible and previous FIREPAC contributions and monthly deductions via FIREPAC Check-Off cannot be applied toward the FIREPAC registration option.

The standard registration fee for the Affiliate Leadership Training Summit/Human Relations Conference is $650.

Three Options for Making FIREPAC Contributions:
1. FIREPAC Cornerstone Council - IAFF members making a personal, voluntary contribution of $1000 or more to FIREPAC will be enrolled in the FIREPAC Cornerstone Council and registered for ALTS/HRC and can attend one pre-conference workshop. Registrants using the FIREPAC option will receive a Cornerstone Council pin and a special gift, along with recognition on the IAFF website. Registration must be submitted online!

2. FIREPAC Chairman's Council - IAFF members making a personal, voluntary contribution of $800 or more to FIREPAC will be enrolled in the FIREPAC Chairman’s Council and registered for ALTS/HRC and can attend one pre-conference workshop. Registrants using the FIREPAC option will receive a Chairman’s Council pin and a special gift, along with recognition on the IAFF website. Registration must be submitted online!

3. FIREPAC Leadership Trust - IAFF members making a personal, voluntary contribution of $500 or more ($650 standard registration) to FIREPAC will be enrolled in the FIREPAC Leadership Trust and registered for ALTS/HRC. Registrants using the FIREPAC option will receive a Leadership Trust pin and recognition on the IAFF website. Registration must be submitted online!

When

1/25/2024 7:00 AM - 1/28/2024 1:00 PM

Where

Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort 1500 Epcot Resort Blvd Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Program

Select programs by

01/25/2024 - FIREPAC

Description
Please confirm the following FIREPAC statements: Category 01/25/2024 - FIREPAC Time 1/25/2024 - 1/28/2024 1/25/2024

01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events

Description
Building Your Peer Support Program: Beyond the Basics This session will build upon the existing two-hour workshop “Building Your Peer Support Program” to deliver a comprehensive overview of how to build a support time that will thrive in the long run. Topics will include Developing Policies in the Collective Bargaining Environment and in Right-To-Work States, Recruiting Clinicians and Understanding Treatment Options, Training Station Officers and Shift Commanders, Improving Insurance and EAP’s for Behavioral Health, Outreach After a Crisis, Self-Care for Peer Teams and their Leaders, Changing Culture in Discipline, and Succession Planning. Ideal for new and established peer team leaders. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Building Your Peer Support Program: Beyond the Basics This session will build upon the existing two-hour workshop “Building Your Peer Support Program” to deliver a comprehensive overview of how to build a support time that will thrive in the long run. Topics will include Developing Policies in the Collective Bargaining Environment and in Right-To-Work States, Recruiting Clinicians and Understanding Treatment Options, Training Station Officers and Shift Commanders, Improving Insurance and EAP’s for Behavioral Health, Outreach After a Crisis, Self-Care for Peer Teams and their Leaders, Changing Culture in Discipline, and Succession Planning. Ideal for new and established peer team leaders. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Building Your Peer Support Program: Beyond the Basics This session will build upon the existing two-hour workshop “Building Your Peer Support Program” to deliver a comprehensive overview of how to build a support time that will thrive in the long run. Topics will include Developing Policies in the Collective Bargaining Environment and in Right-To-Work States, Recruiting Clinicians and Understanding Treatment Options, Training Station Officers and Shift Commanders, Improving Insurance and EAP’s for Behavioral Health, Outreach After a Crisis, Self-Care for Peer Teams and their Leaders, Changing Culture in Discipline, and Succession Planning. Ideal for new and established peer team leaders. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Building Your Peer Support Program: Beyond the Basics No Fee, included with FIREPAC Chairman's or FIREPAC Cornerstone Council Registration. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Human Relations Panel IAFF locals can be challenged by a wide range of human relations issues. This panel will review three local’s human relations efforts over the past year, from what problems existed to how the locals identified key resources and actions to address these problems and will also explore lessons learned and best practices in dealing with an affiliate’s human relations challenges. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Human Relations Panel IAFF locals can be challenged by a wide range of human relations issues. This panel will review three local’s human relations efforts over the past year, from what problems existed to how the locals identified key resources and actions to address these problems and will also explore lessons learned and best practices in dealing with an affiliate’s human relations challenges. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Human Relations Panel IAFF locals can be challenged by a wide range of human relations issues. This panel will review three local’s human relations efforts over the past year, from what problems existed to how the locals identified key resources and actions to address these problems and will also explore lessons learned and best practices in dealing with an affiliate’s human relations challenges. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Human Relations Panel No Fee, included with FIREPAC Chairman's Council or FIREPAC Cornerstone Registration. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Learning to Bend Not Break: IAFF Resiliency Training Please ADD the workshop to your cart. Then click HERE to complete the prerequisite.IAFF Resiliency Training is a one-day classroom program delivered by IAFF master peer support instructors. This training experience is intended to foster individual and organizational resiliency through personal assessment, practical skill building, break out exercises, and action planning. Affiliate leaders will gain an essential foundation for personal resiliency on and off the job. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Learning to Bend Not Break: IAFF Resiliency Training Please ADD the workshop to your cart. Then click HERE to complete the prerequisite.IAFF Resiliency Training is a one-day classroom program delivered by IAFF master peer support instructors. This training experience is intended to foster individual and organizational resiliency through personal assessment, practical skill building, break out exercises, and action planning. Affiliate leaders will gain an essential foundation for personal resiliency on and off the job. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Learning to Bend Not Break: IAFF Resiliency Training Please ADD the workshop to your cart. Then click HERE to complete the prerequisite.IAFF Resiliency Training is a one-day classroom program delivered by IAFF master peer support instructors. This training experience is intended to foster individual and organizational resiliency through personal assessment, practical skill building, break out exercises, and action planning. Affiliate leaders will gain an essential foundation for personal resiliency on and off the job. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Learning to Bend Not Break: IAFF Resiliency Training Please ADD the workshop to your cart. Then click HERE to complete the prerequisite.No Fee, included with FIREPAC Chairman's Council or FIREPAC Cornerstone Registration. Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Motivational Interviewing Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based therapy approach that empowers an individual to examine their own reasons, capacity, and willingness to change a problem behavior that interferes with their quality of life. While MI is traditionally used in clinical settings, peers in the fire service can also be trained to use this approach with their brothers or sisters in distress. This training will introduce you to the motivational interviewing approach, while building on foundational skills taught in the IAFF Peer Training. “This class is restricted to members that have completed the IAFF Peer Support Training. If you have not completed the IAFF Peer Support Training by January 12, 2024 your pre-conference registration will be cancelled and will not be refunded.” Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Motivational Interviewing Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based therapy approach that empowers an individual to examine their own reasons, capacity, and willingness to change a problem behavior that interferes with their quality of life. While MI is traditionally used in clinical settings, peers in the fire service can also be trained to use this approach with their brothers or sisters in distress. This training will introduce you to the motivational interviewing approach, while building on foundational skills taught in the IAFF Peer Training. “This class is restricted to members that have completed the IAFF Peer Support Training. If you have not completed the IAFF Peer Support Training by January 12, 2024 your pre-conference registration will be cancelled and will not be refunded.” . Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Motivational Interviewing Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based therapy approach that empowers an individual to examine their own reasons, capacity, and willingness to change a problem behavior that interferes with their quality of life. While MI is traditionally used in clinical settings, peers in the fire service can also be trained to use this approach with their brothers or sisters in distress. This training will introduce you to the motivational interviewing approach, while building on foundational skills taught in the IAFF Peer Training. “This class is restricted to members that have completed the IAFF Peer Support Training. If you have not completed the IAFF Peer Support Training by January 12, 2024 your pre-conference registration will be cancelled and will not be refunded.” Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM
Motivational Interviewing No Fee, included with FIREPAC Chairman's Council or FIREPAC Cornerstone Registration. “This class is restricted to members that have completed the IAFF Peer Support Training. If you have not completed the IAFF Peer Support Training by January 12, 2024 your pre-conference registration will be cancelled and will not be refunded.” Category 01/25/2024 - Thursday Pre-Conference Events Time 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM 1/25/2024 8:30 AM

01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1)

Description
118th Congress: What Comes Next? The 2022 mid-term elections have ushered in a new Congress and established new majorities on Capitol Hill. Instructors will review the election results, identify hot topics and themes for the incoming House and Senate majorities, and discuss the impacts these changes will have on the IAFF’s policy priorities. This class will provide opportunities for collaborative discussions about political trends at the national, state, and local levels. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
ADS 101: Introduction to Digital Advertising Have you heard of digital media, geo-targeting, or digital ads but are unsure of what these terms mean? This introductory level class will define these terms, expose you to new targeting approaches for ad buying and content placement, and review the best ways to use these tools for your local. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Am I Entitled to Overtime Pay? Answers to Questions Fire fighter entitlement to overtime pay is subject to a series of complex rules and regulations. We will examine the relevant provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), including the Section 7(k) exemption that is unique to fire protection personnel. We will also examine the factors typically considered in determining whether fire protection personnel are properly classified as “exempt” under the “executive, administrative or professional exemption of the FLSA. We will discuss different factual scenarios that arise in the field with respect to FLSA violations and how to identity them. Finally, we will provide a question-and-answer session to address issues and concerns from members. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Bridges to Heal Us Author Erin Jones to discuss her book "Bridges to Heal Us: Stories and Strategies for Racial Healing". Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Build a Strategic Communications Plan and Calendar Learn to convey your message effectively through a strategic communications plan. This class guides you in creating a tailored plan and calendar for engaging your members, elected officials, and the community. Understand your audience, purpose, and timing. We'll focus on practical, hands-on work, including researching relevant topics for your local audience. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Choosing, Using and Supporting Peer Fitness Trainers While there is no single best way to use Peer Fitness Trainers (PFTs) within a department’s broader wellness-fitness program, their potential influence can extend far beyond fitness testing and recruit training. As advocates for wellness and fitness they stand to influence the attitudes, choices, actions and behaviors of their peers, provided that they are supported in their efforts. This workshop will share tips to assemble your PFT team, discuss possible roles and responsibilities, and provide options to increase their influence on your wellness-fitness program and overall member well-being. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Directors & Officers Liability Insurance Directors & Officers Liability Insurance/Labor Organization Bond What happens when your officers make poor decisions? Is there coverage for wrongful management? What happens when cash goes missing or an employee steals from your checking account – is your affiliate adequately covered? See how Directors & Officers Liability insurance and the Labor Organization Fidelity Bond can help protect your Local from these claims. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Discipline: Your Rights and Responsibilities as Union Office *This Workshop is FULL* This workshop will provide union leaders with an overview of their rights and responsibilities during the employment disciplinary process. Union leaders will learn how to best represent their members in accordance with their contract, civil service laws, and the Weingarten, Loudermill and Garrity decisions. This workshop is applicable to affiliate leaders in both collective bargaining and non-collective bargaining environments. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Don't Discipline - Educate! This session will guide you through the importance of a comprehensive EMS Continuous Quality Improvement plan, best practices in approaching medical mishaps, and how we can achieve success through education and training versus discipline. Additionally, we will look at an overall approach to mentoring new members in the practice of EMS and making the best provider and patient centered decisions as an emergency prehospital care team. Many of these concepts are easily implemented in firefighting and other unintentional errors that occur in our profession. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Effective Labor-Management Relationships with Case Studies *This Workshop is FULL* Everyday fire departments and local affiliates are presented with issues, some acute and some that require a long game strategy requiring labor and management to work together to achieve effective solutions. This workshop is presented by a labor leader and fire chief that bring their practical experience of best practices to discuss how labor and management leaders have created team culture and built trust to navigate issues to reach solutions. Case studies will be presented to highlight where labor and management cooperation was utilized to address situations that were met with challenges and conflict but resulted in resolution without use of arbitration or legal action to solve the issue. A philosophy of labor and management coming out of their respective corners to meet in the middle can result in effective solutions for members and communities served. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Engage Members for Life *This Workshop is FULL* First impressions are critical. What is the rookie firefighter’s first impression of your local? Effective new member orientation programs can have a lasting impact on the strength of local unions and set the stage for members to participate in their union through their entire career. In this class, students will learn best practice, supported by behavioral science, for developing and delivering new member orientation programs. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Generational Differences *This Workshop is FULL* Currently, there are as many as four generations employed and working side by side in fire departments throughout the U.S. and Canada. Each generation brings its own individual values and behaviors and these can be a source of conflict in the workplace. This workshop will examine each of the four generations in a humorous way, providing a better understanding of generational behavior, the value that each generation brings to the workplace, why conflict exists among them, and identify communications styles that work for each. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Hands-on ONLINE QuickBooks and Financial Reporting Training QuickBooks can make a Secretary-Treasurer’s job easier, but it can be a difficult program to learn and navigate. As the desktop version is slated to be unsupported soon, this class will focus only on ONLINE QUICKBOOKS. This class will provide hands-on learning from seasoned secretary-treasurers to make sure that your local is getting the full benefit from using QuickBooks. Additional one-on-one time is also available for those interested in learning the trick of the QuickBooks trade. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Local Union Administration *This Workshop is FULL* Designed to help affiliate leaders achieve goals for their locals, this course teaches the skills necessary to be effective in any role as a union officer. Information is provided on the duties of each local union officer, as well as the responsibilities of the executive board and other committees in the local. It will also acquaint participants with the various services and assistance available from the IAFF. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Negotiating Strategies for Tough Economic Times *This Workshop is FULL* We are a union regardless of the status of the economy. Therefore, when we are in tough economic times, we may adjust our mission but not change our vision to continually advance. These challenges may be in the form of decreased tax revenues, cuts in state aid to local government, or cuts in other sources of revenue. The reductions in revenue that result in municipal budget cuts have affected IAFF locals by influencing wages, benefits, or operational resources. This workshop will provide an understanding of how fiscal crises impact the negotiation process, as well as providing insight on how to address wages, benefits, working conditions, and staffing issues in tough times. The workshop will specifically address the above outlined issues for locals with collective bargaining agreements or a formal negotiation process. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Negotiations Bootcamp Track *This Workshop is FULL* This workshop track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue University Global, our partner in education. This workshop track is designed to for students to become more familiar with the issues and processes of preparing for negotiations and conducting negotiations. Students will then practice those skills in a simulated negotiation session. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1/26/2024 1:00 PM - 1/28/2024 12:30 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Pension Analysis and Q&A This workshop will give you the tools you need to analyze the status and outlook of your pension system, including funding levels, the underlying assumptions on which cost calculations are based, and the funding history of the plan sponsor. Applying these tools to your local’s situation. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Safe Staffing Arbitration This workshop will examine the arbitration decision in Sudbury, Ontario (Local 527) where the affiliate was successful in convincing an arbitration board that: (1) safe staffing for firefighters was an arbitrable issue; and (2) deciding that safe staffing for a first in apparatus was four firefighters. This landmark decision marked the first successful staffing arbitration in Canada in over 30 years. Focus will be on the expert evidence and other factors necessary to successfully advance a staffing argument based on firefighter health and safety in both the U.S. and Canada. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Union Leadership Track What kind of leader am I and what kind of leader do I want to be? How Can I Help Our Union Become More Effective? This workshop will help IAFF affiliate leaders learn what kind of union leaders they are and will provide them with several tools to become more effective leaders. During this workshop, participants will identify their own leadership styles and will learn how those styles are perceived by and impact the members that they lead. This workshop track has been reviewed and approved for potential college credit by Purdue University Global, our partner in education. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1/26/2024 1:00 PM - 1/28/2024 12:30 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM
Women and Pregnancy Panel Discussion Our workforce should reflect the communities we serve. The female members of the Elected Human Relations Committee are hosting a discussion on issues facing women in the IAFF. This discussion will be focused on women specific issues, including pregnancy, gear, benefits, and more. Come prepared to engage with the committee members in a thought-provoking and insightful discussion on how to build up the women in the fire service. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Workshops (Session 1) Time 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 1/26/2024 1:00 PM

01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions

Description
Canadian Human Relations Join us for an engaging hour-long information session on Canadian Human Relations in the Fire Service. Explore the unique dynamics of teamwork, diversity, and inclusivity within the Canadian firefighting community. Gain valuable insights into fostering positive relationships and promoting a culture of respect and understanding. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
COMMS 101: Introduction to Communications for Local Leaders *This workshop is FULL* In this class, discover the importance of effective communication for local leaders. Learn about internal and external communication strategies, essential tools, and messaging to establish your local's brand and objectives with ease. The workshop is meant for new leaders. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
DOE Project Overview: ESS Incidents Department of Energy Project Overview: Response to Energy Storage Systems (ESS) Incidents ? When an Energy Storage System failed and injured four fighters, it awakened the fire service and industry to the potential hazards of the fire service response to ESS installations. In response to growing concerns, the US Department of Energy (DOE) initiated a work agreement with the IAFF to establish a project to evaluate Residential ESS (RESS) installations and the potential risk to fire service response. The IAFF partnered with UL Solutions and UL Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) to conduct a research project evaluating the failure of an RESS. This session will review the DOE Research Project and additional projects conducted to evaluate RESS and the Fire Service Tactical Considerations developed based on these projects. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Don’t Make a FUS about ISO The Fire Underwriters Survey (FUS) in Canada and the Insurance Services Office (ISO) in the United States are both dedicated to evaluated and scoring communities to reflect how “prepared” they are for fires. However, it is evident that there are many missing pieces of the system evaluation puzzle. This course will evaluate the differences between FUS and ISO and discuss how these evaluations can be used when discussing your response needs. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Elected Human Relations Committee Updates The fire service is composed of professionals that represent numerous populations differentiated by age, race, ethnicity, gender, language, religion, and sexual orientation, among others. Fire fighters serve equally diverse communities. While our human relations efforts tend to focus on the diversity within the fire service, it is imperative to remember that by drawing on the strengths of our differences, we can better serve those in our communities who do not fall into the majority. Participants will gain an understanding of the path the IAFF has taken to achieve our current human relations initiatives which have improved not only the quality of the workplace for our members, but in turn the service we provide to our communities. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
FIREPAC As long as politicians are involved in our ability to fight fires, fire fighters must be involved in politics. Every decision about your job is influenced by someone who was either elected or appointed. FIREPAC empowers fire fighters to build relationships with decision makers and communicate with the voters who elect them. It is funded by voluntary contributions that are used to support or oppose local ballot initiatives, state legislative efforts, campaigns, and candidates at all levels of government. From the White House to city hall, FIREPAC supports local, state, and federal efforts to expand fire fighter influence all across the country. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Healthlock HealthLock medical fraud and overbilling protection reviews your medical claims, flags potential overcharges and can even negotiate bills on your behalf. This program is available to both individual members and Locals to help their members save and protect their money. The goal behind the information session would be to educate leaders on this issue surrounding hidden healthcare costs, how the program could potentially be a bargaining chip for them and the benefits that a program like this has for Locals as a whole and individual members. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Human Relations Issues for Women Group discussion on important issues affecting women in the fire service. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Human Relations Special Topics Small group meetings with Veterans, Disability, Hispanic, and Black/African American to discuss important issues affecting these demographics. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
LGBTQ Q&A Delve into a thought-provoking hour-long information session on LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in the Fire Service. In this session, participants will have the opportunity to ask candid questions and engage in insightful discussions about LGBTQ+ inclusion, awareness, and acceptance within the fire service. Gain valuable knowledge, foster understanding, and promote a more inclusive and supportive environment for all firefighters. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Navigating IAFF.org Learn what went into making this new, user-friendly redesigned website, understand how to utilize it with your local, and get a sneak peek at the new IAFF.org website before it goes live to the public. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Per Capita Forum with General Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma Your dues are your investment in your union. Hear directly from General Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma where your investment is allocated in the IAFF budget. This session will break down your per capita investment in an easy-to-understand and easy-to-convey to your members manner that will creating the accountability and transparency that they expect and deserve. This in-depth discussion will also shed light on the IAFF budget and how department lines are created and funded. Will include Q and A session with GST Líma and Team GST. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
PFAS Lawsuit Update Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Protecting Members in Pain *This Workshop is FULL* Protecting Members in Pain: How the ADA, FMLA, and Other Laws Can Protect Fire Fighters Struggling with Drug and Alcohol Use ? Federal and state laws protect employees who are struggling with drug and alcohol use, but only if an employee triggers those protections first. This seminar will offer practical guidance to aid struggling fire fighters who are managing their pain through use of drugs and alcohol. We will examine the federal, state, and local laws which protect fire fighters dealing with drug and alcohol use; the steps fire fighters need to take to protect themselves from discipline (up to and including termination); and how to access available resources to get fire fighters the help they need. In addition, we will discuss model language for local unions to use when negotiating their CBA and while discussing policies and regulations with their local government. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Response to the Interface (RTI) This one-hour informational session is intended to increase your awareness of the need for wildfire/interface fire training by municipal fire agencies who increasingly are responding to those incidents. The session will present an overview of training the IAFF has developed and is making available to all its members in the United States and Canada, giving them the tools for safe-competent-response. The session will be interactive with participants covering course content and after-action commentary from recently taught classes. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
SOCIAL MEDIA 101: Digital Brand Building for Beginners At a time when social media is rapidly evolving, some local leaders may be hesitant to embrace it. This class offers an introductory overview of social media, including available platforms and their relevance to your local. Understand the importance of social media for your members and community and learn to craft tailored messages for each platform. Discover ways you can safely leverage social media for expanding your local's brand and influence. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Understanding Audited Financial Statements Most states require government entities to submit financial statements each year. Many times, these are large documents with a lot of numbers. What do they all mean? We will walk you through where to find the important data and additional information that may help you better understand your municipality’s financial situation. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM
Using Your GIS as a Tool to Change A Geographic Information System (GIS) coupled with Workload Analysis are two great ways for you to start owning your data. However, although these resources could stand on their own, their power is tied to your ability to use the data, tell your story, and build winning arguments. This workshop will show local leaders how to gather necessary data, assess their community risk, interpret a workload capacity, and explain how the results can inform fire service administration. Join us to see the resources the IAFF has provide fire department operations insight. Category 01/26/2024 - Friday Information Sessions Time 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 1/26/2024 3:30 PM

01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2)

Description
Best Practices for Secretary/Treasurers Taking care of your local’s financial health is one of the most important responsibilities of a local leader. This four-hour session will break down the responsibilities of the Secretary, Treasurer, and Secretary-Treasurer role and provide valuable tips and tools for your local to utilize. From the basics of financial communications to fiduciary responsibilities to preparing your budget, this class will review the best practices involved in these important roles in your local. Led by GST Staff and experienced secretary/treasurers, the session will also address the importance of auditing and fiscal oversight to help build trust in your local’s financial health. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Building an Inclusive Workforce An inclusive and diverse workforce won’t happen overnight — it takes a continuing, multi-year effort with the jurisdiction, the fire service management and the union to build a workforce that reflects the communities it serves. This workshop provides the education and information required for affiliate leaders to construct and implement recruiting and retention programs that will increase the diversity of their local’s workforce. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Canadian Political Analysis This workshop will examine the IAFF’s legislative initiatives under a federal minority government with a year left in its mandate. We will examine recent initiatives on firefighter cancers (including the work with Health Canada on a national framework for addressing firefighter cancers), the responding to the interface (RTI) training program and current/future lobby priorities to address wildfires and other pressing issues. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
COMMS 202: Advanced Communications for Local Leaders Discover how communication strengthens unions. Internal engagement activates members, while external outreach builds your public image. This session enhances internal and external communication strategies, offering practical insights and best practices from successful locals across the U.S. and Canada. Students will have a chance to review their current communication tools and plans and receive feedback from facilitators. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Deferred Compensation: What You Need to Know IAFF Wealth Management Initiative Track: Deferred Compensation: What You Need to Know to Build the Best Program for Your Members ? · How to open an RFP · What is a 401(a)? · Self-Directed Brokerage (SBDO) · What to know about consultants · What to do in your city manager’s office · Contract Language · How to get all FC initiatives into you CBA Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Effective Labor-Management Relationships with Case Studies Everyday fire departments and local affiliates are presented with issues, some acute and some that require a long game strategy requiring labor and management to work together to achieve effective solutions. This workshop is presented by a labor leader and fire chief that bring their practical experience of best practices to discuss how labor and management leaders have created team culture and built trust to navigate issues to reach solutions. Case studies will be presented to highlight where labor and management cooperation was utilized to address situations that were met with challenges and conflict but resulted in resolution without use of arbitration or legal action to solve the issue. A philosophy of labor and management coming out of their respective corners to meet in the middle can result in effective solutions for members and communities served. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Funding Your Pension: Reduce Potential Attacks Funding Your Pension: Reduce Potential Attacks on Retirement Security by Improving Pension Funding. Tired of politicians’ damaging & ineffective attempts to increase pension funding levels by cutting benefits and increasing member contributions? Then come to this highly informative class on pension plan funding where the experts will discuss a wide range of tools that include pension obligation bonds, revenue bonds and more. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Generational Differences Currently, there are as many as four generations employed and working side by side in fire departments throughout the U.S. and Canada. Each generation brings its own individual values and behaviors and these can be a source of conflict in the workplace. This workshop will examine each of the four generations in a humorous way, providing a better understanding of generational behavior, the value that each generation brings to the workplace, why conflict exists among them, and identify communications styles that work for each. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
IAFF Legislative Priorities The IAFF pursues a robust legislative agenda to enhance and protect members’ jobs, benefits, and health and safety, as well as provide them with the resources they need on the job. This class will provide newly elected leaders with comprehensive education about key IAFF legislative priorities. Instructors will discuss the IAFF legislative philosophy, major bills and initiatives, and future opportunities and challenges. Instructors will also lead a discussion on how affiliate leaders and IAFF members can participate in the department’s work. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
IAFF Union Leadership: Self-Awareness What kind of leader am I and what kind of leader do I want to be? This workshop will help IAFF affiliate leaders learn what kind of union leaders they are and will provide them with several tools to become more effective leaders. During this workshop, participants will identify their own leadership styles and will learn how those styles are perceived by and impact the members that they lead. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Introduction to Grievances *This workshop is FULL* The manner in which you process grievances will determine how quickly they are resolved and how your members will perceive you. A good understanding of the grievance process will better enable you to enforce the collective bargaining agreement and avoid costly arbitration hearings. In this workshop, you will learn how to evaluate and file a grievance, reduce your chances of receiving a DFR claim, and develop effective grievance strategies. This workshop is ideal for local union officers and grievance committee members who have limited experience with grievances. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Know Your Rights as a Public Employee *This Workshop is FULL* Know Your Rights as a Public Employee: Loudermill, Garrity, Weingarten and Other Constitutional Rights ? We will explore the Constitutional and other rights of government employees, including the 1st Amendment rights of speech, association and petitioning the government; the 5th amendment property and due process rights and the right not to self-incriminate oneself; how the 14th Amendment applies these rights to employees of municipalities; the concept of state sovereign immunity; and labor rights. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Preparing for Grievance Arbitration: Choosing an Arbitrator Despite your best efforts to resolve all disputes internally, some grievances cannot be settled at the local level and must be heard by a neutral arbitrator. To win at arbitration, a union leader must be well prepared and have a good understanding of the arbitration process. This workshop will give you an overview of arbitration procedures and protocol, methods for selecting an arbitrator and strategies for cutting costs. This workshop is ideal for local union officers and grievance committee members who work in collective bargaining environments and have limited experience with grievances. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
SOCIAL MEDIA 202: Advanced Social Media Management This advanced class is designed for local leaders whose locals have an established social media presence. Participants will learn advanced techniques to manage their local’s social media accounts and identify new ways to grow their digital audience. This is an advanced class and requires you to have a good foundation and understanding of the social media platforms your local uses. We will cover a lot of tools broadly and allow time for Q&A to address specific membership needs. Please make sure you have the logins for your social media platforms and tools. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Suicide and Suicide Prevention in the Fire Service This presentation will explore what is known and unknown about fire fighter suicide. Participants will learn about suicide prevention, suicide postvention, how to mitigate negative effects of exposure to suicide, and how to prevent suicide among people who are at elevated risk after exposure to suicide. Content will include effective suicide prevention strategies, evidence-based treatments for suicide, resources for suicide loss, and new IAFF efforts to understand and address suicide. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
The Importance of Labor History in Today’s Fight The impact of the labor movement in the U.S. has been deliberately hidden from American workers. There is a lack of labor education in public schools, a prevalent anti-union bias in the media, and a hidden history of militant and effective public employee/firefighter organizing. In this class, students will examine ways labor history is subverted, the history of firefighter and public employee organizing, and how understanding and educating members about this history can help us build strong locals today. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
The Why, What and How of Fire Fighter Fitness Testing The use of fitness testing for incumbent fire fighters is a widely debated topic. While being physically capable is essential for firefighting (and health), the implementation of a fitness test does not guarantee that fire fighters will be physically fit. It is possible to have a physically capable department without an annual fitness test, and conversely a less capable department who administers a fitness assessment semi-annually. For this reason, it is critical to appreciate the implications of instituting or not instituting fitness-related assessments within the broader aims of the department (WHY), in addition to alternative options (WHAT) that may be able to accomplish the same objectives (firefighters who are healthy, active, safe, and effective). This session will explore the WHY, WHAT and HOW to fitness testing in the fire service. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM
Work/Life Balance: How to Achieve Sustainable Success Family relationships with physical and mental wellness are top priorities of firefighters. Yet, balancing personal and professional obligations and interests continues to get more complicated. This workshop teaches union leaders how to align their daily behaviors with their rediscovered priorities in life. They learn how to bring these lessons back to their members. Attendees leave the workshop with a written plan for greater success with work, family, and wellness. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 2) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/27/2024 8:00 AM

01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3)

Description
Alarm in the Firehouse – Addressing LGBTQ+ Discrimination Alarm in the Firehouse – Addressing LGBTQ+ Discrimination in the Workplace. This workshop will begin with the presenter’s experience as America’s first openly gay professional firefighter and his experience with Local 1424 during those years. The presenter will discuss specific actions that contribute to an more inclusive and safe environment for LGBTQ+ employees in the fire and emergency medical services. Real life examples of effective and ineffective ways to address LGBTQ+ discrimination will be used to engage the audience in identifying positive strategies to affect change towards a more diverse and inclusive workplace. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
BRANDING 101: Brand Your Local and Win the Public Branding is a term thrown around a lot, but have you ever thought about the brand of your local union? Does your local have a brand and is it separate from your fire department? How does your current brand impact your ability to make tangible gains for your members? How do firefighters view their union? How do elected officials and the public view your union? In this class, students will review creative ways throughout history that labor unions have created effective branding campaigns that resonated with the public. We will discuss the national fire service brand and how we can leverage that brand with this new historical knowledge to win over elected officials and the public. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Building Local Political Power Every decision about the pay, benefits, working conditions, and retirement of our members is made by someone elected to office or appointed by an elected official. Politics is a tool that we can and must use to improve the lives of our members. Participants will learn the tactics and resources needed to build political power, how to use the legislative process to save money and time, and how to engage in electoral politics to change who makes decisions for your members and Local. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Canadian Duty of Fair Representation This workshop will examine DFR under Canadian Law. The workshop will look at the handling of DFR complaints in both the civil courts and under Labor Board tribunals in those provinces that allow DFR complaints to be heard by Labor Board tribunals. The workshop will also review current DFR decisions. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Cancer Research: From the Fireground to the Fire House This class will focus on the latest research looking at fireground exposures to carcinogens such as PAH, VOC, metals, EDCs which contribute to the risk of cancer within our membership. It will also have a focus on physical and chemical exposures fire fighters face when not responding to fire events and how improvements can be made to reduce risk and improve the health of members. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Defined Benefit Plans Defined Benefit Plans: Legal, Legislative, and Regulatory Issues. Many state and local governments continue to grapple with changes to firefighter retirement plans. This workshop will provide legal, regulatory and legislative updates from both state and federal perspectives and how these changes are affecting public pensions. Also discussed will be the recent battles to convert defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Ethics for Union Leaders Most IAFF leaders are public employees and have fiduciary responsibilities to their membership. Due to the nature of your position, you are subject to higher ethical standards than the average member or employee. These standards must be upheld in order to maintain the trust of your members and run an effective local. Failure to do so can result in loss of credibility, loss of union position, or even criminal charges. This workshop will cover the principles of ethics, the requirements of public employees, and strategies for making ethical decisions. You will use these strategies to analyze scenarios and case studies. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Helping With Financial Decisions IAFF Wealth Management Initiative Track: Helping Mid-Career and Senior Members with Financial Decisions. What you need to know as Affiliate Leaders to help your mid-career active members and your senior members make successful financial decisions. Topics include: · Building wealth · Managing investment risk vs. reward · Ensuring you have provided sufficiently for your family should a tragedy occur. · 457(b) strategies for active firefighters who have not started saving · Maximizing self-directed brokerage to boost return on investment · Understanding Social Security options · Pros and cons of professional asset management and distribution strategies vs. variable annuities and similar insurance options. · Tax efficiency in retirement requires a thoughtful approach to income planning that starts as early as 10 - 15 years prior. A more tax-efficient retirement income distribution plan can add tens of thousands of dollars to estate values or years to portfolio longevity. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
IAFF Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP) What is the IAFF MERP? What can it do for you and your members? And how do you as an Affiliate Leader implement the IAFF MERP for your members? This class will explore these questions and more and will provide participants with a clear roadmap for how to bring the IAFF MERP into your home Local. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
IAFF Union Leadership: Leading Organization Change How Can I Help Our Union Become More Effective? This workshop will provide tools to help affiliate leaders become more effective as IAFF locals continue to evolve to meet the serious challenges facing our union and our members in the 21st century. During the workshop, participants will learn how to assess and to prioritize union resources and leverage and how to engage in strategic planning to establish and achieve effective organizational goals. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Local Human Relations Committee: Getting Started The IAFF recommends that every local establish a human relations committee. Establishing a committee is a proven way to help locals sort through the opportunities and challenges that diversity presents. It can assist locals in resolving conflict and developing a proactive strategy for change. In this workshop, affiliate leaders will learn about the benefits of having a local human relations committee and strategies for developing their own committee. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
MEDIA 101: Introduction to Working with the Media The media is an important tool to leverage your local’s brand and control the narrative about your union. Establishing and building a relationship with local media outlets and reporters is a great way to advance your local’s mission and message. And while we’ve all heard the horror stories of mis-quotes, errors, and just plain bad press, the good news is that most media outlets want to work with fire fighters and can be an asset to your local. This workshop will provide participants 5 quick tips on how to work with the media and how to leverage the fire fighter brand when speaking to the media. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Preparing for a Line-of-Duty-Death How do you plan and prepare for the most horrible event imaginable? How do affiliate leaders act when faced with what can often be a crippling organizational event? Listen to IAFF leaders and staff as they provide suggestions to affiliate leaders about relationships and networks to establish before tragedy strikes, guidance on immediate steps to support surviving members and families, the ceremony, the incident review and championing positive change in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Self-care and follow-up efforts are also discussed. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Preparing for Grievance Arbitration: Contract Language *This workshop is FULL* The collective bargaining agreement is a contract between union and management that outlines the wages, benefits, and working conditions for fire fighters. To maintain flexibility in the workplace, negotiators sometimes include language in the agreement that is ambiguous or general in nature. Occasionally, this ambiguity leads to disputes between the two parties over the meaning of the contract. When these disputes are brought to arbitration, the arbitrator must determine which interpretation is the most reasonable and best reflects the mutual intent of the parties. This workshop will teach you how arbitrators consider contract language, past practice, and other contributing factors in order to reach a decision. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Sleep Hygiene and Optimal Health How does sleep fatigue impact the health and safety of fire fighters? This class will identify the link between lack of sleep and associated health effects and how to combat them to optimize the health of members in your department. Speakers will also address how to apply this information to address staffing and operational concerns. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
Teamwork and Inclusion Fire fighters put their lives and health at risk to save other people’s lives and property; they don’t stop to ask who lives in the burning building or for background information on the heart attack victim. At the same time, fire fighters need to bring that respect for community, diversity and ethics back to the firehouse, living up to their own – and their community’s – highest standards for providing a safe, diverse and respectful workplace. Similarly, a station house must be a place where teamwork standards live up to fire fighters’ – and their community’s – standards for fairness and transparency. This workshop helps examine what it means to be a good team member, how to make effective changes in individual behavior and how to build a culture of teamwork that respects and embraces diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM
The Nuts & Bolts of Union Governance What do I have to do to make sure that my Local is complying with the law and operating effectively? In this class, we will examine member rights, officer obligations and local union requirements under the law and the IAFF Constitution and By-Laws. We will discuss best practices and top tips for making sure that your local union operates properly, and your union elections run smoothly. We will also discuss cutting edge union governance issues such as virtual meetings and electronic elections. This will be an interactive and participatory class as we explore various union governance decisions. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 3) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/27/2024 10:30 AM

01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4)

Description
A Road Map for Winning: Developing a Strategic Plan Does your local tackle obstacles in a systematic, thoughtful, and collaborative way? Or does your daily workload push you into a place where you’re always reacting to the next crisis? In this class, students will learn the importance of engaging in deliberate strategic planning. We’ll talk about defining your mission as an organization, creating parameters to determine your strengths/weaknesses and opportunity/threats, and obtaining buy-in from members for the process. Students will engage in strategic planning exercises dealing with specific issues impacting their local. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Advanced Strategies & Tactics for Local Treasurers While the Best Practices for Secretary-Treasurers class covers the basic functions of the role, this Advanced Strategies and Tactics class provides more in-depth information and guidance. Some of the topics covered will include, taxes and other government filings (990s, LM forms), line-item budgeting, auditing and oversight tips, fraud protection, and investment strategies. This class will also allow students to exchange ideas and share tactics that they have had success with in their local. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Caught on Camera? Now What? Dash cams, body cams, surveillance cameras, and cell phones record EMS practitioners while treating patients. This session will focus on the disciplinary process, provider mental health, crisis communication, and developing a responsible approach for union leaders to consider. Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad “-Isms”? As our communities become more diverse, the “-isms” and “-phobias” land mines we all fear will increase. In this session, you will have the opportunity to gain cultural humility in a safe environment. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Crisis Communication Responding to crises effectively is not just a skill; it’s a mission-critical imperative. As fire fighters and labor leaders, you understand the profound impact a crisis can have on members and the communities we serve. This workshop gives you the tools and strategies essential for weathering these storms and safeguarding your union’s reputation. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Family Medical Leave Act A detailed examination of the Family Medical Leave Act and similar Canadian laws and regulations and how they apply to public employees, with examples, case studies and Q&A. Additional attention will be paid to state/provincial/local FMLA-like laws as well as paid leave laws in the United States and Canada. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Federal Sector Labor Relations Update This session will provide updates on the parameters of the Biden Executive Order expanding bargaining in the federal sector. The session will also cover recent decisions by the Federal Labor Relations Authority and the Federal Service Impasse Panel. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Helping New Fire Fighters Financially IAFF Wealth Management Initiative Track: What you need to know as Affiliate Leaders to help your new members make successful financial decisions in their life. Topics include: · Credit card debt · Basic personal finance – · Setting and executing financial goals · Creating a budget · Creating an emergency fund · Deferred Compensation Deferrals · Mortgage Basics · IAFF 15 x 5 Principle Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
IAFF Behavioral Health Resources You Need to Know Join this dynamic panel to learn about the behavioral health resources you need today to create a resilient foundation for your department tomorrow. This session will deliver a comprehensive overview of the behavioral health resources available to IAFF members, including what’s new in behavioral health training, clinician education, addiction recovery, disaster deployments, behavioral health presumption laws, treatment partnerships, and more. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
IAFF Union Leadership: Culture, Communications & Coalitions IAFF Union Leadership: Culture, Communications & Coalitions During the workshop, you will identify and learn how to effectively model union values while communicating with the membership, building an effective culture of union solidarity, and creating and working with coalitions to achieve local IAFF political and legislative goals. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Local Human Relations Committee: Next Steps Local Human Relations Committee: Next Steps Once you have developed your committee, you are ready for action. In this workshop, you will learn how to assess membership needs, develop and carry out long-term strategic plans, report progress to key stakeholders and devise strategies to fund your committee’s activities. In addition, you will explore strategies for forming a cohesive team of committee members and learning how to keep them productive and energized. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
My Brother, My Sister: Helping Transgender and Non-Binary My Brother, My Sister: Helping our Transgender & Non-Binary Members This presentation will focus on the experiences of trans people in the workforce, with information from existing best practice, case-study, and the presenter's own personal experience as a trans female in the fire service. This session, while workplace specific, will provide valuable insight for members with transgender family members. This session, while transgender specific, is a guidepost to address issues face by the LGBTQIA+ community as a whole. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Preparing for Grievance Arbitration: Evaluating Evidence *This Workshop is FULL* Preparing for Grievance Arbitration: Evaluating Evidence To win your case in grievance arbitration, it is crucial to have evidence to back up your arguments and assertions. Without sufficient evidence, it is difficult to convince an arbitrator to rule in your favor. This workshop will teach you how to gather evidence, identify the types of evidence admissible in arbitration, and determine which types carry the most weight with arbitrators. This workshop is ideal for local union officers and grievance committee members who have limited experience with grievances. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Preparing for Negotiations: Collective Bargaining *This Workshop is FULL* The collective bargaining process allows you to negotiate for wages, benefits, and other conditions of employment. To be successful at the bargaining table, you must thoroughly research and develop your strategy. In this workshop, you will learn how to set realistic goals for your membership and collect the data needed to support your case. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Protecting Yourself and Your Members Protecting Yourself and Your Members: First Amendment Speech, the Internet and Social Media As a public employee, knowing your First Amendment rights will allow you to advocate for yourself, your members and your co-workers while keeping yourself and your Local out of trouble. We will examine the various First Amendment protections afforded to union officials and members, both on and off the job. In addition, we will provide guidance on the perilous intersection of the First Amendment with the internet and social media platforms. Finally, we will discuss the various federal and state laws concerning the recording of meetings, phone calls, video conferences and similar forms of communications. As part of this class, there will be the opportunity to participate in a trivia/game show type contest to review the most important aspects of First Amendment protections. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Running Local Meetings – Basics of Parliamentary Procedure Running Local Meetings – the Basics of Parliamentary Procedure This class is designed to help local leaders with the parliamentary procedure for holding meetings. The class includes explanation of the typical order of business, how to process motions at meetings, a summary of common motions, how to keep good meeting minutes, and other best practices for local meetings. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
To D.R.O.P. or Not to D.R.O.P.? To D.R.O.P, or Not to D.R.O.P.? Why is that a Question? Deferred Retirement Option Plans have been touted by many as the best possible benefit addition that can be provided to our membership to improve retirement security. Simultaneously, D.R.O.P. provisions have been attacked by the media and many elected officials as being enormously costly to taxpayers and an outrageous benefit increase to retirees. Are any of these assumptions or statements, correct? It depends. Come learn about the financial and political opportunities and pitfalls of the D.R.O.P. We will discuss the money saving opportunities for members and employers alike as well as other advantages and disadvantages of this important retirement program. Learn how the rules or governance surrounding a D.R.O.P. benefit determines the costs, the savings, and the benefits to all involved. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Using AI in Communications Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionizing the way we connect, engage, and resonate with our audiences. Stay at the forefront of communications by better understanding how AI can generate content, tailor messages for your audiences, and more. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM
Work/Life Balance: How to Achieve Sustainable Success Work/Life Balance: How to Achieve Sustainable Success Family relationships with physical and mental wellness are top priorities of firefighters. Yet, balancing personal and professional obligations and interests continues to get more complicated. This workshop teaches union leaders how to align their daily behaviors with their rediscovered priorities in life. They learn how to bring these lessons back to their members. Attendees leave the workshop with a written plan for greater success with work, family, and wellness. Category 01/27/2024 - Saturday Workshops (Session 4) Time 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 1/27/2024 2:00 PM

01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5)

Description
Balance vs. Burnout: The Key to Surviving Union Leadership *This Workshop is FULL* This session is designed to help any IAFF leader more effectively balance union leadership with other life roles, including work demands, homelife, relationships, parenting, dual careers, finances, healthcare, and self-care. Join us for a dynamic and honest discussion on how to take care of yourself, when your job is to take care of everyone else. Practical strategies will be explored for both new and established union leaders to recognize burnout, set boundaries, and utilize support systems to emerge as more capable leaders. This session will be delivered by two seasoned union leaders and a mental health clinician. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Behaviorial Health Considerations for Female Fire fighters This session is intended to increase awareness of behavioral health issues prevalent to female fire fighters, through a combination of shared lived experience and available research data. Tangible tools that can be implemented by departments to provide recruitment potential, inclusivity, retainment, supportive behavioral health for women in the fire service will be discussed. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Best Practices for Community Risk Assessment The IAFF uses a combination of demographic and economic variables to identify areas with high risk. The method helps to predict areas that will experience more incidents in the future, even in parts of the community which are evolving or developing. It also identifies which areas need special attention due to the existence of vulnerable populations. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Building a Movement: Organizing Workers For decades, the IAFF has worked on making national collective bargaining a priority for all IAFF members. However, with gridlock in Congress and a keener eye towards specific state statues that allow for collective bargaining on the local level, the IAFF has turned its focus to fighting for collective bargaining in the states and at the local level. The IAFF has seen major wins for collective bargaining across the south in Georgia, Louisiana, and Virginia. It’s because local leadership has stepped up to build their Local’s infrastructure, organized their workers, and used political power to achieve local collective bargaining ordinances. Participants will learn about state laws or constitutional amendments that allow collective bargaining and review best practices for gaining collective bargaining. We will also review case studies of success stories. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Department Response Capabilities Analysis From Industry Standards to Workload Analysis The aim is to help affiliates inform their fire department and city leaders about resources needed to protect lives and property safely and effectively. GIS coupled with fire department workload analysis are two great ways for you to start owning your data. However, although these resources could stand on their own, their power is tied to your ability to use the data, tell your story, and build winning arguments. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Federal Sector Office of Workers Compensation Program (OWCP) This session will provide valuable updates to federal affiliates on OWCP programs to include filing claims and the processes involved in claim approval. This session will also cover recent updates to the OWCP Fire Fighters Special Claims Unit. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Fire Station Facilities *This Workshop is FULL* Fire stations and fire halls are a historic and important aspect of the fire service and the community. They are meant to be a functional and efficient space for work, but they can also have a huge emotional and physical impact on those that work inside them every day. This course will explore how we appropriately honor traditions, while taking advantage of the improvements in health, resiliency, safety, diversity, and quality of work environment offered by evolving concepts in fire station design. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Frontline Union Representative Basics *This Workshop is FULL* This workshop addresses the knowledge and skills involved in effectively enforcing contract provisions and representing workers’ rights with your fire service management and jurisdiction. It will introduce and explore the issues and best practices involved in handling grievances, enforcing contract language, and handling discipline issues. Additionally, this workshop reviews ways that key union personnel can inform membership on the benefits of union membership and active involvement. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Get a Seat at the Accreditation Table: The Time is Now! The IAFF embraces the concept of fire department accreditation as a means of ensuring quality work, enhancing safety, and creating meaningful labor-management relationships. However, if we aren’t careful the process can be leveraged against us. This class will discuss common topics of concern for affiliates in the accreditation process through the eyes of IAFF commissioners and those that have been through the process. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Health Insurance Trusts: Right or Wrong for Your Local Should your Local create or join a Health Trust? Are you and your Board informed on all the nuances of not only creating, but administering a Trust? Learn the basics about a Health Trust, as well as what the IAFF is doing to help. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Overview of ADA and ACA This workshop provides an overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the amendments which now make it officially the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA). This workshop will also address the Accessibility Canada Act (ACA) and similar legislation in Quebec and Ontario. The workshop will explore the basic principles of the legislation, examples of how it applies to fire service employees, plus case studies and Q&A. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
PFAS Research Attendees will learn about how fire fighters are exposed to PFAS, and what the latest research is telling us. They will learn about the health effects from PFAS exposure, related pathologies known to be high in fire fighters, and the studies showing fire fighters are at increased risk. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Teamwork and Inclusion Fire fighters put their lives and health at risk to save other people’s lives and property; they don’t stop to ask who lives in the burning building or for background information on the heart attack victim. At the same time, fire fighters need to bring that respect for community, diversity and ethics back to the firehouse, living up to their own – and their community’s – highest standards for providing a safe, diverse and respectful workplace. Similarly, a station house must be a place where teamwork standards live up to fire fighters’ – and their community’s – standards for fairness and transparency. This workshop helps examine what it means to be a good team member, how to make effective changes in individual behavior and how to build a culture of teamwork that respects and embraces diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Tips and Techniques for Presenting a Case Tips and Techniques for Presenting a Case before an Arbitrator or Hearing Officer Have you ever wondered what goes through the mind of an Arbitrator as you are presenting your case or what an Arbitrator looks for in determining whether you will win or lose your case? This class will include the insight and experience of a seasoned labor arbitrator who will share his/her perspective as to what makes for a successful presentation at an arbitration hearing. You will also be able to ask the Arbitrator the questions that you have always wanted to ask. We will provide a review of the nuts and bolts of preparing and presenting a case to an arbitrator or hearing examiner, including how to prepare witnesses and documents to use at the hearing. We will also review typical evidentiary issues that arise at a hearing, including hearsay objections and past practice. Participants will also learn how to prepare an opening statement and how to conduct an effective cross-examination. Finally, there will be opportunities to participate in various role play scenarios with feedback provided from the arbitrator and the attorney presenters. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Understanding and Developing SAFER Grants The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grants (SAFER) were created to provide funding directly to fire departments to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, "front line" firefighters available in their communities. This workshop will provide an overview of SAFER grant legislation, available funding, program priorities, and the application process. Instructors will provide tips and tricks for writing effective grants for their department, actual grant applications for critique, and a question-and-answer session. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM
Understanding Union Leadership *This workshop is FULL* This workshop will address many facets of being a union officer, including the responsibilities associated with each role. This workshop will also address how to be a union advocate, using the skills of the executive board, and how to organize members and increase their participation to build a stronger local. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 5) Time 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1/28/2024 8:00 AM

01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6)

Description
Bargaining for Retiree Health Insurance *This Workshop is FULL* IAFF leaders face many challenges, but few are more pressing than pre-65 health care options for retirees. From VEBAs, PEHP, HRAs, and HSAs, learn how to create opportunities through the collective bargaining process to engage employers to lower the cost of post-employment healthcare to allow IAFF members an earlier and more dignified retirement. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Canadian Member Benefits This class will be delivered by TD Insurance and TD Wealth, focusing on securing and protecting your financial future. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Community Crying Poverty *This Workshop is FULL* Cities and states give away huge corporate subsidy deals and then cry poverty on public safety budgets. Learn how to document and expose these giveaways, plus successful fight-back strategies, messaging, and allies. Learn about free databases Subsidy Tracker and Tax Break Tracker, plus a new government accounting rule that helps unions document how much tax revenue governments are losing to corporate tax breaks. They are labeled “economic development incentives,” but they are often unnecessary and sometimes fail to pay off. States lose so much revenue this way, the losses often far exceed their pension obligations. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Federal Fire Fighters – Retirement Special category retirement considerations. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Increasing Membership Participation *This Workshop is FULL* The strength of a local depends on the active involvement of its members. Whether it’s a committee meeting, political campaign, or public relations effort, your members make the difference between success and failure. This workshop provides methods to increase member participation and build an effective union. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Lowering the Heat on Violent Calls Every time you arrive on scene, there are many factors that contribute to whether a calm or heated environment will prevail. During this session you will learn about the six-phase Aggression Continuum. The Continuum describes the varying degrees to which patients or bystanders may be verbally or physically hostile and how to appropriately respond to reduce the chances of experiencing violence. You will learn strategies to keep patients and bystanders calm and cooperative and to keep your own behavior professional to avoid sparking a verbally or physically hostile scene. You will try de-escalation techniques and approaches that will be featured in IAFF workplace violence (WPV) prevention courses and view live demonstrations. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Parliamentary Procedure for Convention Delegates If you are thinking about attending the 57th International Convention in Boston and have questions about the parliamentary procedure that will be used at the business meeting portion of the convention, then this class is for you. Attendees will learn about parliamentary procedure, the rules used at the convention, the potential types of business that can be considered by the convention, and other information that should be helpful for potential convention delegates. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Recruitment: Problem and Solution *This Workshop is FULL* The presentation includes tips aimed at identifying the current problems in recruitment and retention. Once the problems are identified, we will work together to build plans to be used at different departments. The presentation will be interactive and is designed to create plans to get buy in from the administration and community, address funding issues, and educate current members on successful practices. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly With Consultant Reports *This Workshop is FULL* Decision makers frequently rely on third party consultants to determine plans of action for public safety because they don’t understand what firefighters and EMS workers do. This workshop is designed to inform affiliate leaders how they can use their data, including publicly available resources, science, and subject matter expertise to refute their findings. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Understanding and Developing the AFG Grants The AFG Training and Equipment grants are for critically needed resources to equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, enhance operations efficiencies, foster interoperability, and support community resilience. This workshop will provide an overview of AFG grant legislation, available funding, program priorities, and the application process. Instructors will provide tips and tricks for writing effective grants for their department, actual grant applications for critique, and a question and answer session. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM
Women's Health & Wellbeing in the Fire Service For women, the risks related to exposures, shift work and physiologic strain has the potential to negatively impact maternal and child health in addition to the overall health of female fire fighters. This workshop is not just for women, but also for local leaders to understand the occupational health concerns of the female firefighting population. This workshop will also explore the relationship between gender specific anthropometrics, turnout suit fit and turnout ensemble range of motion. Category 01/28/2024 - Sunday Workshops (Session 6) Time 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM 1/28/2024 10:30 AM

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