DC17 Voluntary
Activist Committee
Give Back • Get Connected • Build Union Power • Win Prizes
Our Goal
At DC17, we believe that when members give their time, skills, and solidarity, our entire Union family grows stronger. The Volunteer Activist Committee (VAC) is where that happens. It is a place for members to get involved, make a difference, and represent the very best of our trades.
This committee isn’t just about volunteering, it’s about building Union power from the ground up. The VAC proudly includes our Voluntary Organizing Committee (VOC), bringing together members who want to take an active role in improving our communities and strengthening our Union presence on and off the job site.
Why Join the VAC?
Community Impact:
Whether it’s a clean-up day, a local charity event, or a community build project using the skills of your trade, you’ll be helping where it matters most. Together, we show that Union members don’t just work here - we build here, support here, and care here.
Stronger Union Connection:
Meet fellow members beyond the job site, build relationships within our Union family, and take pride in representing what the IUPAT stands for.
Rewards for Your Efforts:
For each month you participate in a VAC event, your Union monthly dues are covered. Plus, every event you attend gets your name entered into our annual prize draw. The more you participate, the more entries you earn and one lucky member will take home a great prize at year-end!
Inclusive & Member-Driven:
Every member’s voice matters. Have an idea for an event or cause that resonates with our membership? Bring it forward! We’ll help organize and make it happen.
Organizing for Our Future:
By joining the VAC, you’re also joining the Voluntary Organizing Committee, the heartbeat of grassroots Union strength. From outreach to potential members and supporting organizing campaigns, to showing solidarity on picket lines or demonstrations, your involvement helps grow our movement and protect good Union jobs.
How It Works
Sign Up Fill out our quick VAC registration form so we can keep in touch
Attend Events Watch for invites via email, text, and the News & Events page
Earn Monthly Dues Credit Each month you participate in at least one VAC event, your dues for that month are covered
Get Entered in the Prize Draw Each event earns you a ballot in our annual prize draw
Win Big! A great prize will be drawn at the end of the year - participation pays off!
Share Your Ideas See a need in your community? Have a creative idea for a volunteer or organizing event? Let us know! This committee is by members, for members
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What counts as a VAC event?
A: Any approved volunteer or organizing activity such as community clean-ups, charity builds, mentorship programs, organizing drives, political actions, or other Union-endorsed events.
Q: How many months do I need to participate for dues credit?
A: You’ll earn dues credit for each month you participate in at least one VAC event.
Q: How many entries can I get for the annual draw?
A: One entry per event attended - the more involved you are, the more chances you have to win!
Q: Does it cost anything to join?
A: Not a cent. Joining the VAC is free and your Union covers your dues for months you participate.
Q: How do I stay updated on events?
A: Once you sign up, you’ll receive regular event notifications by email or text, and all upcoming events will also be posted on our News and Events page.
Other Opportunities to Get Involved
The VAC and VOC work together to encourage member-led participation across all areas of our Union life. Join us for:
Political and community action: helping shape the future for working people
Skills-based volunteer projects: using your trade to support those who need it most
Shop Steward & Union training: grow your confidence and leadership
Retiree committee events: connecting generations of union members
Demonstrations, pickets & Salting: showing visible solidarity and working with our organizing team
Donation of labour: giving back to build something meaningful
Ready to Join?
Be part of something bigger than yourself. When we volunteer, we strengthen our communities and our Union.
Apply below to sign up for the Volunteer Activist Committee and start receiving updates on upcoming events!
Your participation makes a difference and together, we build power, pride, and solidarity across the Prairies.
Apply Now!