DC 37 News, Events, and Services you can use in August

MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY WITH DC 37

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

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

MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES LEGAL SERVICES (MELS)

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Help and Resources

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

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

DC 37 POLITICAL ACTION

Support the DC 37 PEOPLE Program! 

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

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

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

DC 37 AT THE YANKEES

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

Game Dates

Against Division rivals, the Toronto Blue Jays:

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

Against the Houston Astros:

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

Each Ticket includes:

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

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

DC 37 HEALTH & SECURITY PLAN

Personal Service Unit: Addressing Burnout 

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

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

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

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

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

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

DC 37 EMPLOYEES HOUSING PROGRAM

MEHP First Time Homebuyers Workshop

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

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

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

MCU First Time Homebuyer Workshop

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

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

DC 37 EDUCATION FUND

Getting Started with A.I.

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

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

Requirement: Basic computer knowledge

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

  • Thursday, July 30
  • Thursday, August 6
  • Wednesday, September 30
Fall Training Programs

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

CompTIA Network+—BMCC

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

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

CompTIA Security+—BMCC

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

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

EKG Technician—BMCC

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

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

Phlebotomy Technician

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

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

Certified Nurse Aide—BMCC

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

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

CompTIA A+—Monroe University

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

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

Certified Coding Associate—Monroe University

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

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

Certified Coding Specialist—Monroe University

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

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

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

Education and Career Counseling

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

High School Equivalency Diploma

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

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

Free Community College for New York State Residents

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

Applicants must:

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

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

CUNY Counseling Is Here for You!

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

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

Free College Programs for Local 372 Members

Local 372 paraprofessionals can earn 18 credits annually toward a Human Services degree through Monroe University. To begin the enrollment process for the Winter 2027 term, register through the DC 37 Education Fund Academy. For questions, email ppunch@dc37.net.

Local 372 members working in School Food can earn an associate degree in Nutrition and Culinary Management through LaGuardia Community College. To begin the enrollment process for the Spring 2027 term, please register through the DC 37 Education Fund Academy. For questions, email lpicano@dc37.net.

DC 37 NON-PROFIT EDUCATIONAL CORPORATION

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 skills-upgrading opportunities in 2026.

For more information about these programs, call (212) 341-4991 or email: SBoard@DC37.NET.

Early Childhood Programs Professional Learning Opportunity Alert!

The Early Childhood Inclusion Professional Learning Series is a two-day, in-person training now available to any early childhood program with a majority DC 37 members. It’s designed for all staff in the program: classroom and family staff, kitchen staff, environmental staff, and leadership alike.

Sessions run a full workday with breakfast and lunch provided, and the two days can be scheduled flexibly to fit your program’s calendar. Sign-ups are ongoing — now is a great time to get your program on the list before the new school year begins.

Express your program’s interest HERE.

Local 205 and Local 95 Teachers! Want to be Certified?
Fill out the 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 sector. Your responses are confidential and will help us to plan trainings and address 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.

Workshops for Non-Profit and Private Sector Members

Dates for Workshops, Preparation Classes, and Computer Skills Upgrade Google Classrooms will be available in August. To register when they become available, 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.
  • AFSCME Family Scholarship: Each year, the AFSCME Family Scholarship Program provides $2,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors, which are 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.
  • 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, 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.

ACPNY

AdvantageCare Physicians at the DC 37 Health Center

Primary care services are available at the DC 37 Health Center, conveniently located at 115 Chambers in downtown Manhattan.

AdvantageCare Physicians at the DC 37 Health Center takes a “whole you” approach to care by understanding all the physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors that impact your health.

ACPNY is open Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Schedule an appointment online or call (646) 680-4227.

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)

When to Seek Physical Therapy for Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is the most common diagnosis seen by physical therapists. Most cases will resolve in less than two weeks with little to no treatment, but back pain that is sharp, shooting or radiating warrants a timely referral to prevent the symptoms from becoming debilitating. Learn from a PT when it is time to seek care for lower back pain and exercises you can do to prevent it. 

HSS is here to help DC 37 members and families.

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

MSK DIRECT

Personal Screening Recommendations

Cancer screenings are important, so please don’t wait. Take a 5-minute assessment to get personal screening recommendations from MSK: Start now.

DC 37 has a partnership with MSK Direct to provide employees and their families dedicated access to exceptional cancer care, support, and expert resources from the world’s leading cancer specialists at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK). If you or a family member is affected by cancer and would like to discuss treatment options at MSK, call the dedicated MSK Direct phone line for DC 37 employees at 833-786-3365 or visit mskcc.org/dc37.