Employment Services — 2

On the first item the Executive Council identified a company called Employee Benefit Services and we held our first meeting to map out a plan and to coordinate our activities. The response to this program has been tremendous. Since its inception, there have been hundreds of calls from officers and members.

On the second item, we have developed a website on employment related issues. By going to www.goiam.org and clicking on the Employment Services Department link this website can be accessed. This site covers six categories that we felt would be most beneficial. They are insurance, budgeting, important links, job search links, information for unions, and retraining information.

The third function was to either create a pamphlet or manual that could be used by our leaders in their duties to assist our brothers and sisters. We immediately went to work with the Communications Department and in June we produced our first copies and made those available to our leaders. We then set our goals to complete a very comprehensive employment services resource manual. In October of 2003 a completed draft copy was approved and in November we made this available to our union leaders and members.

Our fourth target was to be available to assist our locals and districts with any questions they might have in regards to employment related issues. In response to this issue there have been hundreds of calls to this department concerning the insurance plan, W.I.A., W.I.B., ITA, etc. We have returned all calls and assisted as many of our brothers and sisters as we could.

The present elected federal officials and their administration have no plans in place to create meaningful employment opportunities that I am aware of. The loss of jobs under the current Republican administration is staggering but the human suffering is even more compelling. Many of our social programs have been cut or sacrificed. Budget cuts, loss of government employees, elimination of programs, all add up to less service to those who need it the most. For every one of our members who lose their good-paying jobs the whole family is adversely affected. This department is committed to assist, counsel and advise each of you in your fight for justice.

In conclusion we hope this overviewgives you a better understanding of this department and the commitment of the Executive Council to provide the quality service you rightfully deserve.