One year ago, the Sierra College Faculty Association (SCFA) was in crisis.

There were lawsuits and numerous sudden leadership vacancies. The unit was nearly gutted and there were huge needs. The to-do list was massive: candidate searches, three elections, appointments, training, organizing, member surveys and engagement, website and bank account transfer, negotiations issues, bylaws and standing rules updates, email changes, workload, meetings, etc. Then our local’s leadership team was awarded a release time grant from CCA and it changed everything.

Local faculty union units often face periods of crisis—whether due to sudden workload increases, urgent contract enforcement issues, accreditation pressures or unexpected leadership vacancies. During these moments, the ability of a local chapter to respond quickly and effectively can determine whether faculty voices remain strong and organized. Recognizing these challenges, the California Community College Association provides two key support mechanisms: the Local Chapter Reassigned Time Grant and the Innovative Grant.

The Local Chapter Reassigned Time Grant allows a chapter to secure temporary reassigned time for faculty leaders who must devote significant hours to addressing urgent local issues. This support enables faculty representatives to focus on negotiations, grievance work, organizing and member communication without sacrificing their instructional responsibilities.

The Innovative Grant, by contrast, encourages creative solutions that strengthen local chapters and faculty engagement. Locals can use these funds to pilot new organizing strategies, develop communication tools, host leadership training, or build collaborative initiatives that improve union capacity.

The grants information is on the CCA website. Be aware that timing can be a relevant factor in the grant process.