What A-PLUS is

A-PLUS, a non-profit postal association, was organized in 1987 for the purpose of mentoring and developing African-American and other postal managers towards a successful career path. Although it was understood that African-Americans in the Postal Service were receiving training and some upwardly mobile opportunities through Affirmative Action and other programs, it was clearly obvious that many African-American managers lacked some of the primary tools necessary for immediate consideration and placement in mid-level, upper and executive management.

A-PLUS was established on the premise that while a significant number of African-Americans in the Postal Service have the required education, experience, skills, and the desire to pursue advanced management, there continues to be other considerations and needs for minorities. These special needs — mentoring with confidence, personal development, networking, self-help education, for example — are major focal points for A-PLUS.

Only a small number of African-American managers spearheaded A-PLUS at its inception. Today, the membership stands at over 1,000 and is growing. There are currently 40 active chapters throughout the United States and an intense campaign is underway to create more wide-spread involvement and recognition.

The A-PLUS membership consists of associate members, mid, upper, and executive managers who contribute their personal time and resources to help those in search of career advancement.

What A-PLUS is not

A-PLUS IS NOT A LOBBYING GROUP

A-PLUS was formed to give its membership full advantage of the methodologies, experiences, and education of Black postal leaders. Sharing knowledge and networking is the basis on which A-PLUS operates to help others in their career paths. A-PLUS does not serve to lobby for, or insist on managerial promotions, assignments or appointments: nor does it attempt to qualify or rescind any action by the Postal Service.

A-PLUS IS NOT A RESTRICTED ORGANIZATION

A-PLUS is designed to “work with” the Postal Service in developing Black managers. Although the organization was formed initially with minorities advancement in mind, any postal manager can benefit from the training and information offered through A-PLUS conferences, workshops, and seminars: membership is open to any postal manager.

A-PLUS IS NOT A SECRET ORGANIZATION

Contrary to some beliefs, A-PLUS is not a “back room,” esoteric organization. There are no activities or actions that are not completely above-board and open to interested parties. Meeting times and locations are published and can be disclosed to anyone who would like to attend.

A-PLUS DOES NOT GUARANTEE PROMOTIONS OR APPOINTMENTS

A-PLUS is based on a support mechanism, not on the idea that members will gain advanced positions within the Postal Service. Its main idea and function thrives on “readiness” through sharing, acting, and supporting.
Corollary: The leaders and members of A-PLUS believe that an organization of this type can only serve to enhance the Postal Service’s managerial and executive base, and that the training, and education provided its members will result in a more effective and professional postal system.