ABOUT THE ROLE
THE ROLE
We are looking for a CYAN Lead Organizer (0.75 FTE). The Lead Organizer reports to the Executive Director and works in close partnership with the Director of Housing Justice, the Housing Justice Team, and the Engagement Team. The Lead Organizer will develop our flagship program—the Civic Youth Action Network (CYAN)—by working with the CYAN leadership team to accomplish CYAN-related membership and organizing objectives. This position will also support the housing justice organizing and research work led by the Housing Justice Team.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Key responsibilities include to:
This role is empowered to plan, launch, and execute organizing events that draw youth and youth allies into our youth organizing (CYAN) and housing work
Build people power by building relationships with youth, including individuals, youth-led organizations, and youth-serving organizations and institutions
Manage volunteers that are essential to building capacity for organizing and direct action
Develop the leadership capacity of CYAN leaders and members, aiding the planning and execution of the CYAN Conference and monthly events
Assist in research-related projects, including the Youth Housing Safety Net which identifies how youth fall into homelessness and are failed by the system and the history & impacts of exclusionary single-family zoning
Become a clear and powerful voice for organizing and the principles thereof inside and outside of the organization
This is the dream job for someone passionate about organizing people to disrupt the status quo; lifting up marginalized voices, including youth; working directly with individuals and groups with diverse identities, lived experiences, and perspectives; and engaging youth and the community to build long-lasting power and a brighter future.
We are looking for someone who:
Has strong organizational and time management skills
Has the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Has a desire to learn organizing skills and expand youth power in San Diego
Is passionate about our mission
REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Previous organizing experience or related work experience is preferred, with priority given to individuals with experience organizing youth or for youth-related issues. A high school diploma is preferred, although not required if a candidate has exemplary youth organizing experience.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
WORK MODALITY & LOCATION
The work modality of this role is either hybrid or remote. Work is welcome in person at OTTA United’s office, located in San Diego, California (3252 Holiday Court Ste 103, San Diego, CA 92037), but it is not required.
PAY & BENEFITS
This position is on a volunteer basis. There is no monetary compensation for this position at this time. OTTA United deeply values the potential for personal and career development and strives to uplift its team members to best position them for their bright futures. Non-monetary benefits include:
Tailored work experience and growth to fit your desired career path
Hands-on experience with Quickbooks and resources to foster exploration
Letters of recommendation
Certified Volunteer Hours, if requested
A tight-knit team and community of fellow change-makers
OTTA United is a youth-founded, youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future.
OTTA United values authenticity and passion. We play the role of coalition builders and mentors within our communities, sharing knowledge, resources, credit, and impact. And as a justice-oriented, impact-driven, and people-centered organization, our perspective grounds us with who we serve and the work we do while advancing our mission.
Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Here are some things to keep in mind:
Our team values flexibility and taking initiative over structure and top-down delegation. This philosophy is not a good fit for all, so we want to be clear upfront. If you thrive in dynamic, open environments, this is the place for you.
We value meaningful impact and support. We seek to authentically serve both our audience and our team members alike.
We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs.
Our team and organization are growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve, at all levels of our organization!
Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow us to be an effective team.
We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo.
We prefer personability over professionalism, at least in internal settings.