Organizing Institute Frequently Asked Questions
Updated
Organizing Institute Frequently Asked Questions Updated
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  • Can I hold spots during registration?

    Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee holds requested by unions. The name on the registration must reflect the participant attending the training.

  • Can I change participant names?

    Although our policy does not allow switching participants, we do understand situations arise where this needs to happen. Please email us at [email protected] at least three weeks prior to the start date of the training to request switiching participants. Any changes within the three-week period will be subject to a $250 administrative fee.

  • What is the cost to participate?

    The cost to participate in our in-person training program will be $250 per participant which includes meals and a t-shirt. This does not include the cost of on-site accommodations or travel. Should the AFL-CIO need to transition training online, all participants will receive a refund.


     

  • Can I submit payment to the AFL-CIO after the training?

    Payment must be received at least three weeks prior to the first day of training. Payment may be made through credit card, check, ACH or PayPal. Participants will not be confirmed until payment has been received. 

  • What if my union needs to cancel a participant?

    Please email us at [email protected] at least three days prior to the start of the training to cancel a participant. Failure to do so may result in the registration fee being forfeited. This is due to catering and other costs associated with the training. Refunds may take up to 60 days.

  • What if I have withdrawn a participant from a particular training? Can I hold that spot for a future training?

    No. We will refund the sponsoring union the money used to register the participant. You will need to re-register for the next OI training you are interested in. 

  • OI Three-Day Trainings fill up very fast. Is there a waitlist?

    Yes, there will be a waitlist for every AFL-CIO OI Three-Day Training.

  • Can I show up to a training without being registered?

    No. This is unfair to the participants and unions who played by the rules to register for the training. People who are not registered will be turned away. 

  • Can my union register three or more participants for an OI Three-Day Training?

    Yes. For every three organizers a union registers, we will request an additional organizing staff member from your union to serve as a teaching fellow to assist with the training. 

  • Does it cost the union to send an organizer to serve as a teaching fellow?

    Other than any travel costs (hotel, per diem, etc.) covered by the union, there is no cost to send an organizer to serve as a teaching fellow.

  • What COVID-19 safety protocols are in place?

    Although strongly encouraged, the wearing of masks is optional. The AFL-CIO OI will adhere to CDC and to state and local COVID-19 guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

  • Can you help train the staff at my union?

    The Organizing Institute can assist AFL-CIO affiliated unions with their staff and member trainings through partnered in-person or remote training. If you’re interested in collaborating on a training for your organization, please complete our Training Interest Form.