The National Staff Organization (NSO) is accepting applications for its Winter Advocacy Retreat (WAR) First-Time Attendee Scholarship Program, which will provide up to five members from smaller NSO affiliates with financial assistance to attend the annual retreat.
Established to expand participation in the union, the scholarship program is open to first-time WAR attendees from NSO affiliates with fewer than 40 members. Each scholarship covers round-trip airfare and four nights of accommodations. Meals and other expenses are the responsibility of the recipient and/or their affiliate.
“WAR is one of the most important opportunities we have to bring our members together, but the cost of attending can be a real barrier, particularly for members of smaller affiliates,” said Quinn Chesir, co-chairperson of the NSO Organizing Committee. “This scholarship is about opening that door to members who haven’t had the opportunity to attend before. We want them to come, build relationships and bring what they learn back to their affiliates.”
The scholarship program will be overseen by the NSO Organizing Committee, which will review applications using a rubric designed to support a diverse cohort of recipients. Considerations will include associate and professional employment status, regional distribution and representation across the union’s membership. The committee will recommend recipients to the NSO Executive Committee.
WAR provides members with opportunities for professional development, organizing education and collaboration with staff union colleagues from across the country. Scholarship recipients may be asked to attend a designated educational session and/or submit a report reflecting on their experience following the retreat.
“Our goal is to make sure members leave WAR with something they can use, whether that’s a new approach to organizing, a stronger understanding of their union or a connection with someone who has faced the same challenges,” said Kelley Clouser, NSO vice president for program. “Having more first-time attendees in the room also makes WAR stronger. They bring experiences and perspectives that benefit everyone.”
The scholarship initiative represents an investment of up to $10,000 in member participation and affiliate development.
“NSO is strongest when members from every affiliate have a meaningful opportunity to participate in their national union,” said NSO President Brad Darjean. “We cannot build a stronger organization if the same people are the only ones who can afford to be in the room. This scholarship is an investment in our members, our smaller affiliates and the future of NSO.”
Members may access the application through the Information section of the NSO portal. And must be received by Oct. 12, 2026.
The National Staff Organization represents union staff from across the country, uniting professionals who support and strengthen the labor movement in every sector where unions thrive.
Grounded in a shared commitment to leadership, advocacy, stability, and justice, NSO empowers its members to build strong contracts, protect union values, and champion the rights of workers nationwide. Learn more at www.nationalstaff.org and follow NSO on social media.