Retired Educators Association of Massachusetts

The Retired Educators Association of Massachusetts is an organization committed to serving the needs and interests of its members based on democratic principles. We encourage the use of our members' collective power to promote their economic and social well being while utilizing their professional background and collegiality to develop a sense of community. As an organization devoted specifically to retired educational personnel, the Retired Educators Association of Massachusetts stands as their advocate and is committed to taking any necessary action to promote and protect the interest of its members.

ITEMS OF INTEREST:

National Commission of Fiscal Responsibility & Reform Update- thanks to the many members and friends who responded to our call for comment. REAM, in addition to many other public retiree associations, submitted information regarding how the WEP & GPO affect the financial sustainability of those living on a public pension and have their earned social security benefits reduced. We are also pleased that retired educators were well represented at the hearing by California Retired Teachers Association Legislative Advocate David Walrath. David was one of 90 speakers who addressed the Commission at their public hearing. Link to Mr. Walrath's testimony.

Membership Renewal for 2010: Membership renewal is a continual process for REAM. Members can easily renew their membership through our Summer & Fall newsletters. Membership applications can be used for renewal or new memberships.

Volunteer Opportunities: REAM partners with other organizations to help provide meaningful volunteer opportunities for members who desire to continue to give back. Please check our Volunteer Opportunities to find ways of supporting local charities and specific campaigns geared toward helping those less fortunate.

Advocacy Day: Thank you to the members and friends that came into the Statehouse to support our lobbying efforts on May 11. REAM continues to experience positive feedback regarding legislation filed on behalf of our members. Our efforts will continue throughout the formal session and we encourage members to stay in touch with their local elected leaders. Timely updates will be posted on our website and sent through email blasts to our members.

Pension Study Commission Report: attached is the report filed on behalf of the Public Pension Study Commission

New travel opportunities are available to REAM members through Collette Vacations & Durgan Travel. Details are listed under travel opportunities.

Pre-Retirement Seminars - REAM cordially invites all administrators and educators to a complimentary seminar on preparing for retirement. Seminars are held throughout the year at various times and locations. For upcoming dates and times, please contact our seminar specialists at (800) 644-3422. Online registration is also available.

REAM is now offering a multi-year membership. Membership is currently $30 per year or $80 for three years. Membership with REAM includes a local chapter affiliation.

Ream's Retirement Planning Guide

WEP/GPO Update - REAM continues to closely monitor this issue. Officials from REAM have joined with other retiree gourps from the affected states as well as other interested parties and groups to help coordinate a more concerted effort on behalf of repealing and/or revising the language of Windfall Elimination Provision/Goverment Pension Offset. Important information regarding bill numbers and important advances in getting our message heard can be found on the WEP/GPO information section of our website.

For any questions regarding the Association or any information found on this website, please contact Executive Director Hillari Wennerstrom.