MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

FIX TIER SIX!

What Is Tier 6 and Why Do We Need to Fix It?

Tier 6 is the pension plan for New York State and City public employees who joined public service on or after April 1, 2012. Tier 6 workers pay higher contribution rates than other workers. We pay a sliding scale of 3-6% of our salaries into the pension system for our entire careers. When our salary increases, so do our contributions. This means we lose out on much-needed cost of living increases.

What Can We Do to Fix Tier 6?

District Council 37, AFSCME, CSEA and other New York unions are calling for an equitable approach to the pension system: set the employee contribution rate at 3% for all public workers in Tier 6. Doing so will raise workers’ take-home pay immediately and make public service a more attractive, affordable career choice for those entering the workforce.

How You Can Help:

Click here to email your State legislators today and tell them: FIX TIER 6!

Why Act Now?

The New York State Legislature is currently negotiating the budget, and this is the only time we can make changes to pension contributions until next year. 

Eliminating contribution bands so everyone pays 3% provides immediate financial relief for current Tier 6 workers and helps future workers too!

DC 37 POLITICAL ACTION

Join the Political Action VMO Program

Our Voice, Our Vote! Become a Political Action Volunteer Member Organizer (VMO) to engage your fellow members and help get out the vote. The program operates yearly during the Primary and General Election Cycles and includes door-knocking, phone banking, and canvassing to directly support union-endorsed candidates.

The 2026 Midterm and General Elections are sure to impact labor and we must do our part to elect labor-friendly candidates who place protecting working families at the forefront of their policies and agenda.

The Political Action VMO program is scheduled to begin Monday, May 11 and shifts takes place every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday throughout the Primary Election, as well as some Saturdays.

Volunteers receive $22 per hour for their participation and can choose a schedule that works best for them. Become a VMO today! Registe HERE or email PoliticalAction@dc37.net for more information.

Attend This Month’s Political Action Committee Meeting

The DC 37 Political Action Committee (PAC), chaired by Donald Nesbit, Executive Vice President of Local 372, is powered by dedicated union members, leaders, and volunteers from New York City’s largest public employee union—District Council 37 AFSCME.

Our PAC activists are on the front lines of advocacy, working to protect and advance workers’ rights through political action. From lobbying and voter education to grassroots mobilization, we are committed to making our voices heard.

District Council 37’s “Green Machine” is at the heart of this movement—engaging in door-knocking, phone banking, and rallies to support endorsed candidates across the five boroughs, especially in communities with strong DC 37 membership.

Together, we can continue building power and elect leaders who will stand up for working families and fight for a stronger, more equitable future.

Get involved. Stay engaged. Make a difference.

Ready to make an impact? Sign up today to join our next monthly PAC meeting!

Thursday, April 9, at 6 p.m. at 125 Barclay Street | To register, click HERE.

Support the DC 37 PEOPLE Program!

There’s a lot on the line this year. The results of the 2026 Senate and Congressional elections will determine the fate of workers and communities across the nation. In addition to our work to get pro-worker candidates into office, DC 37 is fighting for reforms to the tier 6 pension system, fair funding for city and state agencies, and a host of other crucial issues that impact our members. The PEOPLE Program, DC 37’s political action fund, makes these fights possible.

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

Join PEOPLE HERE.

DC 37 SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE

DC 37 Scholarships for 2026 are open! Members can apply to win a competitive scholarship to support educational goals for themselves, their children or grandchildren. Learn more about the scholarships offered, requirements, and deadlines HERE.

DC 37 HEALTH & SECURITY PLAN

Coping With Traumatic Events: PSU Can Help

Approximately 70% of people will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. A traumatic event is an overwhelming or dangerous experience causing intense fear or helplessness and may lead to negative effects on functioning, including anxiety, flashbacks, difficulty sleeping or hypervigilance.

Helpful techniques include:

• Identify triggers that cause emotions to surface (such as loud noises, smells, or certain locations).
• Limit exposure to distressing current events and triggers
• Build self-care habits; maintain consistent sleep, nutrition and exercise, practice mindfulness and meditation, or engage in activities you enjoy.
• Connect with a mental health worker who can help you process feelings and develop effective coping skills
• Express emotions to safe and trustworthy people in your life.

The Personal Service Unit of DC 37 is here to support you. To speak with a Licensed Social Worker for confidential therapy or referrals, please call (212) 815-1260 between 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, for an assessment.

DC 37 MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES LEGAL SERVICES

Financial Caregiving Toolbox: Lessons from “My Mother’s Money”

Join us for a virtual webinar on April 29 at 6:30 p.m. as Beth Pinsker, Certified Financial Planner, explores the financial and legal planning challenges faced by caregivers and their loved ones and shares practical tips to help navigate them with confidence. She will discuss:

• Pervasive Planning Procrastination and How to Overcome It
• What Documents are Needed to Get Started
• Understanding Medicare and Medicaid Coverage Options
• What are the Out-of-Pocket Costs for Caregivers
• Strategies to Retain Financial Resources
• How to Map Out Care Decisions and Next Steps

Click HERE to register.

DC 37 EMPLOYEES HOUSING PROGRAM

MEHP First-Time Homebuyers Workshop

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

Saturday, April 4, at 11 a.m. | Register HERE.

Saturday, April 18, at 11 a.m. | Register HERE.

MCU Homebuyers Webinar

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

Thursday, April 23, at 6 p.m. | Register HERE.

DC 37 PRIDE DIVERSITY INTEREST GROUP

At our next meeting, we will finalize the details for our June 26 event! Also, we will be walking in the NYC Pride Parade on June 28, so mark your calendars. Let’s arrive with our UNION PRIDE as we march for solidarity and equity! Come on out and bring an ally. For more information, or to be added to the PDIG WhatsApp Group, please contact Andrew Douglas at (917) 952-1127 or email adouglas@sseu371.org.

Follow PDIG on Instagram!

Monday, April 13 at 6 p.m. | Join meeting HERE

DC 37 CLIMATE JUSTICE COMMITTEE

The DC 37 Climate Justice Committee will meet on Monday, April 6, at 6 p.m. via Zoom and telephone. The Committee is focused on helping protect DC 37 members, the public, and our workplaces and schools from the impact of increasingly extreme weather, wildfires, flooding, and other environmental concerns.

This work includes legislative lobbying, working with environmental activists, giving climate-related presentations, and making recommendations on ways to address the consequences of climate change.

The Committee is open to all DC 37 members and retirees.

Monday, April 6 at 6 p.m. | 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 April 6, at 6 p.m, Housing Committee Chair Dennis Ifill, President of Local 1359, will discuss housing issues, resources, and upcoming events. The virtual meeting room opens at 5:50 p.m., and the meeting begins at 6 p.m.

Monday, April 6, at 11 a.m. | Register HERE.

DC 37 EDUCATION FUND

Education Fund Is Now Accepting Applications for Spring 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 see what is available for a course, please view our list of programs by clicking HERE.

DC 37 Scholarship Applications Are Now Available

The DC 37 Scholarships Committee offers several scholarships for dependent children and grandchildren of eligible DC 37 members and retirees. There are different scholarship eligibility, requirements and documents that need to be submitted, so please review the Scholarships FAQ before beginning your application. For more information on available scholarships, please click HERE.

Tuition Reimbursement Benefit

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 reimbursement benefit, please click HERE.

The 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 DC 37 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 need to 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 and look under Labor Education Courses.

DC 37 Education Fund Provides Free Social Worker Workshops for Local 768 Members

The District Council 37 Education Fund, in conjunction with the National Association of Social Workers, New York State Chapter, plans to host continuing education workshops for eligible Local 768 licensed Social Workers. These workshops are:

April:

• Social Work Practice with Parents of Estranged Adult Kids
  (3 CE) (3 hours) Wednesday, April 29 from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
  LAST DAY TO REGISTER OR WITHDRAW FROM WORKSHOP: Monday, April 13
• Decolonizing Your Mental Health Practice
  (3 CE) (3 hours) Thursday, April 30 from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
  LAST DAY TO REGISTER OR WITHDRAW FROM WORKSHOP: Monday, April 13

If you are interested in attending these virtual workshops, please enter the following link(s) into your web browser and complete the online application.

May:

• Creating Speculative Spaces Using Artificial Intelligence Augmented Expressive Arts to Promote Trauma Recovery
  (3 CE) (3 hours) Monday, May 11 from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
  LAST DAY TO REGISTER OR WITHDRAW FROM WORKSHOP: Monday, April 26
• Affirming Care Basics for Polyamorous and Non-Monogamous Clients
  (3 CE) (3 hours) Thursday, May 14 from 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
  LAST DAY TO REGISTER OR WITHDRAW FROM WORKSHOP: Wednesday, April 29

If you are interested in attending these virtual workshops, please enter the following link(s) into your web browser and complete the online application.

If you have any questions regarding the online application or the workshop, please email edf-testpreps@dc37.net.

Education and Career Counseling

Do you need guidance on selecting a class from our offerings, updating a resume, or need assistance reaching a career or educational goal? Contact an Ed Fund counselor HERE and look under Ongoing Programs to schedule a virtual appointment.

Do You Need Your High School Equivalency Diploma (The GED)?

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 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.

Free College Programs for Local 372 Members In Specific Job Titles

Local 372 Paraprofessionals can earn 18 credits annually for a degree in Human Services through a partnership with Monroe University. To begin the process to enroll for the Fall 2026 term, complete an online application: www.dc37edfund.org/monroectpcandidateform. For questions, email: ppunch@dc37.net.

Local 372 Members Working in School Food can earn an associate’s degree in Nutrition and Culinary Management through a partnership with LaGuardia Community College. To begin the process to enroll for the Fall 2026 term, complete an online application at www.dc37edfund.org/laguardiacandidateform. For questions, email: lpicano@dc37.net.

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 at https://slu.cuny.edu/worker-education/leap-to-teacher.

Spring 2026 Computer Programs

Below are the following open computer programs offered by the Education Fund:

COMPUTER COURSES DISTRICT COUNCIL 37 (UNION HEADQUARTERS): In-Person

• Introduction to Computers, Thursdays, 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. (Union HQ at 125 Barclay) TBD, In-Person REGISTER HERE
• Microsoft Word, Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (Union HQ at 125 Barclay) TBD, In-Person REGISTER HERE

COMPUTER COURSES QUEENS COLLEGE: Online

• Microsoft Word, Thu. 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., 10 weeks, 4/16-6/18, Online REGISTER HERE
• Microsoft Excel Level I, Tue. 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., 10 weeks, 4/14-6/16, Online REGISTER HERE
• Microsoft Excel Level II, Wed. 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., 10 weeks, 4/15-6/17, Online REGISTER HERE

COMPUTER COURSES CITY COLLEGE/CENTER FOR WORKER EDUCATION: Online and In-Person

• AutoCAD by Autodesk, Tuesdays/Thursdays, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. (City College/CWE), 4/13-6/1, In-Person REGISTER HERE
• Microsoft Office Professional, Intermediate, Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. (City College/CWE) 4/14-6/16, Online REGISTER HERE
• Microsoft Excel Level I, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m., (City College/CWE) 4/16-6/18, Online REGISTER HERE
• Microsoft Excel Level I, Fridays, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. (City College/CWE) 4/10-6/12, Online REGISTER HERE
• Microsoft Excel Level II, Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (City College/CWE) 4/11-6/20, Online REGISTER HERE

Note: Microsoft Word is a prerequisite for the Microsoft Excel Program.

COMPUTER COURSES LAGUARDIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Online Program

• Data Analytics Certificate Program Orientation – Spring 2026, Online REGISTER HERE

Note: Microsoft Excel Level 2 is a prerequisite for the Data Analytics Program

Retirees Education Courses for Spring 2026

The Ed Fund is currently accepting applications for Retirees classes for the Winter 2026 cycle. Apply online by clicking HERE.

For questions, please contact Manuel Gomez-Rosa at mgomezrosa@dc37.net or call (212) 815-1700.

DC 37 NON-PROFIT AND PRIVATE SECTOR EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

DC 37 Non-Profit and Private Sector Members represented by Locals 95, 205, 215, 253 and 389 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)

• Violence Prevention & Intervention: April 13, from 6 to 8 p.m.
• Child Abuse & Maltreatment: April 20, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
• Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) workshop: April 27and April 29, from 5-8 p.m. (MUST attend BOTH days)
• Continuing Teacher Leader Education (CTLE): Classroom Management Solutions April 9, from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Infectious Diseases: Wednesday, April 8, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

PREPARATION CLASSES (virtual)

• Content Specialty Test (CST) – Arts & Sciences: 4/11/26, 4/18/26, 4/25/26 & 5/2/26 (4 sessions), from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Content Specialty Test (CST) – Math: 4/7/26, 4/8/26, 4/14/26, 4/15/26, 4/21/26, 4/22/26, 4/28/26, 4/29/26 (8 sessions), from 6 to 8 p.m.
• Educating All Students (EAS): 4/20/26, 4/27/26, 5/4/26, 5/5/26 & 5/11/26 (4 sessions), from 6 to 8 p.m.
• Assessment of Teacher Assistant Skills (ATAS): 4/11/26, 4/18/26, 4/25/26 & 5/2/26 (4 sessions), from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

COMPUTER SKILLS UPGRADE [Google Classroom] (virtual)

• Advanced Excel: 4/11/25, 4/18/25, 4/25/25 & 4/2/25, from 10 a.m.to 1 p.m.

Where to register: click HERE.

SCHOLARSHIPS

The following scholarships are available to eligible DC 37 members or their dependents:

• Educational Incentive Program (EIP): The Educational Incentive Program (EIP) scholarship is awarded based on income and gives up to $2500 per year for college courses and up to $1250 for the CDA. This scholarship is only for classroom personnel.
• CUNY and SUNY: Several CUNY and SUNY colleges offer free Associate degree programs in high-demand industries for eligible students. Students may be eligible if they are residents of NY, and are between the ages of 25-55, and do not already have a college degree. For more information on these programs, call (212) 815-1644.
• AFSCME Family Scholarship: Each year the AFSCME Family Scholarship Program provides $2,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors that will be renewed for $2,000 each year for a maximum of four years, provided the student remains enrolled in a full-time course of study. The scholarship may be used for any field of study. Questions about this scholarship should be directed to AFSCME.
• Union Plus College Program: Through the Union Plus College Program, union members and their families can earn an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree 100% online while minimizing their out-of-pocket costs thanks to exclusive union discounts, financial aid, and grants. Questions about this scholarship should be directed to scholarships@unionplus.org.

Survey for Local 205 & 95 Teachers and Assistant Teachers

Please complete the survey so we can provide additional support for you in being certified.

Workplace Needs Survey

District Council 37 is conducting this survey to understand the staffing, safety, and training needs of our members in the non-profit and private sectors. Your responses are confidential and will help us in planning trainings and addressing safety and health concerns in your workplace. Thank you for taking the time to fill out this survey.

The information you provide will be kept confidential. Complete the survey HERE.

DC 37 RETIREES ASSOCIATION

Retired and not a member of the Retirees Association?

The benefits we enjoy as DC 37 members were not given freely, they were hard-fought and hard-won.

When you retire from your Local union, you become eligible to join the DC 37 Retirees Association. Here, you can maintain an active role in the battle to protect and expand our pension program, health benefits, Social Security, Medicare, and more.

In addition, we offer several benefits to our members:

• Regular membership meetings at DC 37 Headquarters, virtual and in the five boroughs and Florida.
• Education classes on topics like Black history, Jewish history, Technology, and Conversational Spanish.
• Discounts on everything from travel to cell phone service through the AFSCME Advantage Program.
• A $500 supplemental death benefit for member beneficiaries, and more.

You can join today at www.dc37retirees.org/join. Did you know your spouse can join the Association, too? Visit www.dc37retirees.org/spouse and pay your annual spousal dues via credit card!

Get to know us!

This April, we’re making stops in all five boroughs! Whether you’re newly retired or have been enjoying retirement for years, this is your chance to connect, stay informed, and get the most out of your DC 37 retiree benefits.

Join us in your borough to:

• Learn more about the DC 37 Retirees Association
• Get up-to-date information on your union retiree benefits
• Ask questions, meet fellow retirees, and build solidarity and community
• Enjoy light refreshments in a welcoming, in-person setting

Borough Meetings:

• Brooklyn on April 1 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Medgar Evers College, 1638 Bedford Avenue
• Manhattan on April 2 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3 p.m.–5 p.m. at Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building, 163 W 125th St.
• Queens on April 21 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at LaGuardia Community College, 45-50 Van Dam St.
• Bronx on April 22 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. PM at Hostos Community College, 120 East 149th St.

Staten Island is coming soon! Seats are limited at each event. Please RSVP now to secure your spot!

You can also visit our website at dc37retirees.org or check our Facebook page at facebook.com/dc37retirees to learn how to get involved.

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)

Aches and pains? Getting connected with the world’s #1 in orthopedic care just got easier!

HSS will host a webinar on Thursday, April 2, about 5k training and injury prevention! Whether you are a walker, jogger, or seasoned runner, this webinar is for you. Register HERE.

DC 37 has teamed up with HSS to bring members their family’s access to world-class orthopedic care. The HSS Care Concierge team will connect you with in-network care at one of our convenient locations in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Florida.

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

MSK DIRECT

Visit the MSK Direct site for more information on being sun-smart this summer.

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.