Tips for Local Presidents to Recruit Veteran Coordinators
Recruit veteran member(s) to serve as the Veteran Coordinator:
LP, E-Board and Steward speak one-on-one with veterans within the Local to encourage veterans to join AFGE Veterans. Identify one or more vets with great leadership skills, who are committed to volunteering extra time, to serve as the Veteran Coordinator.
When speaking with a veteran, always look them in their eyes, give a firm handshake and be brief. Share vet-specific issues with them such as: “Some” members of Congress are going after our pay, trying to privatize VA health centers and are attempting to remove veteran’s preference. Avoid partisan tone and inference. Keep the conversation on how veterans will suffer from a bad policy and let them know that there are ways of fighting harmful proposed policies. Also, assure veteran that the Local will begin a recognition process to recognize those within the Local who exemplify outstanding achievements at the Local level.
Encourage military veterans to join AFGE Veterans and participate on veteran coordinator calls (TBD).
Post AFGE Veterans flyers on breakroom board, desk drop, ask for volunteer(s) at Local meetings and include in Local newsletter.