77+ Years of Sacred Stewardship
161+ Honored Members of the Board and Administration
January 7, 1947: The Day the Vision Began
The history of the essential workforce is a tapestry woven with the threads of sacrifice, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the public good. In Minnesota and Wisconsin, the pillars of our community, our nurses, teachers, police officers, and firefighters, have long relied on the strength of their labor unions to secure their rights and protect their futures. However, as we navigate the complexities of 2026, a profound truth has emerged: the contractual protections of a union are the foundation, but the quality of a member's life requires a separate, dedicated steward.
State Employees, Inc. (SEI) does not seek to replace the vital work of organizations like AFSCME, the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA), or Education Minnesota. Instead, we exist as a secondary layer of support, a legacy-driven nonprofit that honors the essential worker by providing the lifestyle enrichment and financial relief that standard contracts often overlook.
The Foundation Era: 1947–2020
The origins of SEI trace back to a pivotal moment on January 7, 1947, when 30 visionary state employees recognized that their collective service deserved more than just a paycheck. They sought to create a "family" of support that would extend beyond the office or the precinct. For over seven decades, this organization has stood as a silent sentinel, preserving the dignity of the essential workforce through times of economic shift and societal change.
★ Visionary Leadership: Established by 30 original stewards.
★ Enduring Legacy: 77+ years of continuous nonprofit service.
★ Purity of Mission: Governed by a 100% volunteer Board of Directors.
Why Union Benefits Are Only the First Step
While union member benefits in MN and Wisconsin union perks provided by organizations like AFSCME Council 5 or the Wisconsin Professional Police Association (WPPA) are essential for bargaining power, they are often focused on the macro, wages, insurance, and retirement. SEI focuses on the micro, the daily joy of a family vacation, the peace of mind during a financial emergency, and the physical vitality of the individual.
10 Reasons to Layer SEI onto Your Union Membership in 2026
1. The "Afford Today" Hardship Relief
We recognize that 37% of essential workers cannot cover a $400 emergency. Through our partnership with the Foundation for American Service (FAS), SEI members gain access to the Afford Today program. This is not a loan; it is a manifestation of community support, offering hardship relief and emergency grants for those who have sacrificed so much for others.
2. Exclusive YMCA Wellness Access
A steward must maintain their own strength to serve others. SEI provides exclusive pathways to YMCA memberships across Minnesota and Wisconsin. Whether you are a nurse finishing a double shift or a teacher preparing for the school year, your physical vitality is a priority we honor with tangible savings.
3. Iconic Family Enrichment: Disney World & More
The legacy of an essential worker is often built in the quiet moments between shifts. We offer prestigious discounts on Disney World tickets, allowing families to create memories that transcend the stresses of the workplace. This is a level of recreational access that sets SEI apart from standard union offerings.
4. Seamless Integration with "Tickets at Work"
For those seeking a broader range of recreation, our membership unlocks the full power of the "Tickets at Work" network. This includes nationwide savings on cinema, theme parks, and professional sporting events, ensuring that your $5/year investment returns value in every corner of the country.
5. Honoring the Education Sector (Education Minnesota)
Teachers and school staff are the architects of our future. We offer specialized Education Minnesota member savings that complement local CBAs. From classroom supplies to personal wellness, we ensure the "Steward of the Classroom" is seen and remembered.
6. Specialized Police & Firefighter Union Deals
The weight of the badge is heavy. SEI provides police union discounts and firefighter union deals that focus on quality of life. By partnering with local businesses in the Twin Cities, Milwaukee, and Madison, we bring the community to the front door of those who protect it.
7. The Mall of America SeaLife Experience
Community enrichment is at the heart of our mission. Through SEI, members receive exclusive pricing for Mall of America SeaLife tickets. It is a simple yet profound way to provide educational and recreational joy to the children of our essential workforce.
8. The $20 Lifetime Legacy for Retirees
The transition from active duty to retirement is a milestone of great honor. While most union benefits change upon retirement, SEI offers a $20 one-time payment for a Lifetime Membership. We believe that once you have served the state, your seat at our table is permanent.
9. Beauty, Spa, and Restoration Partnerships
True stewardship involves restoration. We have curated a network of beauty and spa partners across the region. These exclusive discounts are designed to provide a sanctuary of rest for healthcare workers and first responders who spend their days in high-stress environments.
10. A Growing Network of Local Business Partners
SEI serves as a bridge between the essential workforce and the local economy. Our vendor partners join for free, offering discounts to our members in exchange for the honor of serving those who keep our states running. This local ecosystem strengthens the bond between the worker and the community they serve.
The Era of Modern Stewardship: 2021–2026
In recent years, under the guidance of our volunteer Board, SEI has expanded its reach. We have moved from a local Minnesota focus to a nationwide vision, while maintaining our core strength in the Midwest. Our commitment remains unchanged: to empower the essential workforce with impact-scalable member benefits.
▸ Total Integrity: Every dollar of your $5 membership fee is funneled back into member value.
▸ Community Resilience: We stand beside you during inflation, hardship, and transition.
▸ A Professional Record: We maintain an archival history of our members' contributions through our Memory Lane.
The Vow of the Steward
As we look toward the remainder of 2026, we invite every member of AFSCME, MNA, Education Minnesota, and our various Police and Firefighter associations to consider the value of a secondary support system. Your union protects your job; SEI honors your life.
"To the one who stands at the hospital bedside, the one who guards the street, the one who leads the classroom, and the one who maintains our infrastructure: You are the heartbeat of this nation. Our mission is to ensure that heartbeat remains strong, supported, and celebrated."
Join the Legacy Today.
▸ Active Essential Workforce: $5 per year
▸ Retired / Retiring Members: $20 one-time payment for a Lifetime Membership
Secure Your Membership and Explore Plans Here
To learn more about our 77-year history and our 100% volunteer-led mission, please visit our About Us page.