WHEREAS:

            AFSCME members and leaders are the driving force of our union; and

WHEREAS:

            Our union is strongest when all members take on activist and leadership roles; and

WHEREAS:

            The Next Wave is an affiliate-based program preparing our youngest and newest members for these roles and future challenges facing our union. One of these challenges is the pending generational transition, as true and tested leaders retire and the future of our union is placed in the hands of the youngest and newest members; and

WHEREAS:

            Next Wave members have already demonstrated success as leaders at all levels of the union; and

WHEREAS:

            The best practices of the most successful affiliate Next Wave programs incorporate the following traits: leadership development, training on how to run for and serve in official union positions, the integration of Next Wave with the existing affiliate priorities and work, social events, mentorship opportunities with seasoned members, staff time, financial resources, technological resources and a strong internal drive

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

            That Next Wave continue to be a national priority for AFSCME; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

            That members of the Next Wave be encouraged to run and serve in elected union positions at the local, council and national level; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

            That AFSCME affiliates and councils be strongly encouraged to develop Next Wave programs and plans that include quantifiable goals to increase the participation of the next generation that are innovative and incorporate the best practices.