RTAM: Much More Than Just Cola

Alex Boyes RTAM Board Member Since becoming a Board Member of RTAM last January, I have become aware that some RTAM members feel that if you took away from RTAM’s agenda its pursuit of a better COLA deal from the Province, there would not be a reason for RTAM’s existence.

Nothing could be further from the truth

Let me say at the start, however, that any endeavour on RTAM’s part to put more disposable income in the pockets of retired teachers has my full support. No argument there ! An organization like RTAM, with over 8000 members, has as an agenda, purpose and commitment that encompasses more than just the pursuit of a more equitable COLA outcome. Retired teachers in Manitoba provide significant services to many Manitobans. Just read about these services in each issue of KIT. RTAM and its many Chapters are at work in Manitoba communities continually. The “Motion Tracker” section of the Board’s monthly meetings clearly indicates the number of initiatives that are being undertaken by your Board. Every Standing Committee has current and new initiatives under exploration. Regularly, there are information sessions held throughout the Province to bring relevant information to retired teachers and those about to retire. To encourage local Chapter activity, the RTAM Board provides a grant of $250 towards the pursuit of activities at the Chapter level. These grants are always welcomed. RTAM is constantly monitoring its Benefit Plans to ensure that it offers the best possible rates to its members at competitive costs. These are reviewed and reported to the Board regularly. All committees: Wellness, Educational Advocacy, Public Relations, Political Action, indeed all strive to put before the Board all the relevant information it needs to meet your needs and expectations. Currently, RTAM is exploring ways it can collaborate with Winnipeg Harvest to provide services to needy students in both rural and urban areas. A survey is being considered to determine if there might be new areas in which RTAM might offer new services to members. The pilot “Eldercare Project” will begin in January of 2014. A word needs to be said about the work of RTAM’s many local Chapters. In no particular order, here are a few of the activities being provided by these fine volunteers: • Over $20,000 in scholarships given out in recent years. • Used eyeglasses have been collected for 3rd world countries • Toiletries are collected for Osborne House • Remembrance Day Services are conducted in many communities • Christmas hampers are collected and distributed • Monies are collected and distributed to Heart and

Stroke, Cancer, Diabetes and other community organizations • Visiting shut-ins/condolence cards to persons needing comfort • Promoting the economic interests of teachers.

These are just a few of the many activities supported and endorsed by RTAM. Retired teachers do not stop contributing to their communities when they retire. That contribution needs to be recognized. RTAM is considering a study of this contribution made by our retired teachers based on one done in British Columbia by the BCRTA. Does RTAM only exist for COLA? Not at all. This brief look at the work of RTAM should answer that question. RTAM is, and will continue to be, a “value added” contributor to our community .

And, by the way, at an annual membership fee of $27, that is a very good bang for your buck. n