Building Connections with Peers and Their Union

06 January 2022

The newest iteration of the Local 600 Mentorship Program is being labeled as a “pilot program.”  But pilots are known for taking flight, and that outcome is every bit what Local 600 staff and committee members are hoping will happen with this new program in its efforts to enrich members’ careers and increase union solidarity.

“Unions are at their very best when they develop myriad ways to support working families. Mentorship can make the difference in turning jobs into careers and letting members know they are part of a larger community that wants them to succeed,” said Local 600 National Executive Director Rebecca Rhine. “We hope this pilot program is the beginning of creating strong bonds between mentors and mentees and another connection between members and their union.”

The new program, which launched this week, is the result of months of collaboration between Local 600 administrators, staff members and Sophia Jimenez, a consultant brought aboard specifically to guide the endeavor. Kudos also to Jennifer Gilroy, Josh Hancher, Mark LaBonge, Ella Lubienski and Hollis Meminger: the dedicated volunteers who make up the Pilot Mentorship Committee along with Local 600 Assistant Western Region Director Xiomara Comrie.

In past years, Local 600 has conducted three previous mentorship program cycles. Membership has consistently indicated that they view mentorship as a union priority, but guild officials concluded that the program would need to be overhauled in order for it to flourish.

“I thought it needed a complete workover,” said Comrie. “It needed a revamp to keep it fresh for membership, and I think the team has done that.”

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