From the Massachusetts Nurse Newsletter
March 2010 Edition
| Enjoying “MNA Day” at Leominster Hospital, from left: Donna Halloran, Jane Moorcroft, Aimee St. Jean, Anne Loiselle and Natalie Pereira. | |
Members at Leominster Hospital conducted an “MNA Day” in early January. The leadership there scheduled the day in hopes that it would encourage nurses to become more involved with and educated about the organization that represents both their professional and union-specific needs.
The event was widely advertised throughout the bargaining unit and nurses were strongly encouraged to attend during their coffee and lunch breaks and at change of shift. MNA leadership secured a conference room just outside the cafeteria for the festivities and it quickly became a hub of activity, with more than 100 nurses stopping by to enjoy snacks and the company of colleagues.
Nurses had the opportunity to spend time with and ask questions of their MNA bargaining unit committee members and the MNA staff members who work with the unit. They received updates about grievances and about the unit’s ongoing preparations for contract negotiations. Other topics of discussion that were on the agenda that day included:
- Nursing practice concerns
- Bargaining unit questions
- Legislative and community priorities
- Upcoming regional activities and opportunities
The MNA’s division of membership was also on hand to answer members’ questions, and the committee made sure nurses had access to plenty of free MNA tchotchkes and gear. Information regarding the organization’s extensive, members-only discount and benefit programs was also available. In addition, participating nurses had the opportunity to win prizes by entering a raffle and by taking part in an “MNA trivia quiz.”
By everyone’s standards, the event was a hit and a great way to herald in a successful year at Leominster Hospital.
Note to reader: “MNA Day” at Leominster Hospital is an excellent example of what a successful in-unit MNA event can look like. Other bargaining units can host one too. Contact your MNA bargaining unit leadership and ask about arranging one at your facility.
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