Why does the York Unit bother to plan and run social events for its members? The answer is simple. Strong unions are built on strong relationships, and social events are a great opportunity to build those relationships.
Our goal is to create opportunities for members to connect, network, and get to know other members from across the board and from different experience levels. Teaching can feel busy and sometimes isolating. Many times as a new teacher, especially a daily OT, sitting at the staffroom table full of experienced, connected staff, can feel very intimidating. Our unit social events give members a chance to step outside their daily routines and build connections across the school board.
For newer members especially, these opportunities can make a real difference. We’ve seen a lot of new faces getting involved recently, which is fantastic. At the same time, overall member activity has dropped over the past few years, and we’re working to grow that engagement again.
We’re proud of the success of our larger events. The Christmas party is always a highlight, bringing out great crowds. Whether it’s small groups of friends or entire school staff celebrating together. Our children’s Christmas party is a favourite for families, and our bus game trips continue to be a big hit. These events remind us how much fun it is to come together.
Now we’d love to see that same energy at our smaller, local events. These gatherings are relaxed, welcoming, and a great way to have real conversations and meet members you might not otherwise cross paths with.
On a personal note, not that long ago I was a new teacher myself. I remember thinking that I wasn’t going to worry about the union until I became permanent. That whole time, I felt very disconnected and constantly wondering about information I didn’t know where to find. When someone from the union reached out and invited me to a union event I decided to go, and it was that opportunity that helped me see how much I had missed by not getting involved sooner. Joining a union committee was one of the best decisions I made. It helped me meet new people, reconnect with teachers I had worked with years before at schools I hadn’t been back to learn more about our union, and feel more connected to the profession beyond my own classroom. I have met some fantastic new friends through work on the committees as well as at social events.
If you are ever thinking about getting involved we’d love to welcome new members to the Social Committee. Fresh ideas and new perspectives keep things exciting and relevant. You don’t need experience, just a willingness to get involved.
So come next time you see an event of interest, consider signing up and coming out to an event. There are bound to be friendly faces there waiting to welcome you.