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< Back OP-ED: Students are making waves in redistricting. San Diego should listen Tuesday, November 2, 2021 Aidan Lin, Executive Director Students are the future of San Diego. So why does redistricting overlook them? Everyone has heard of the phrase "youth are the future," and it is frequently accompanied by the sentiment that leaders should hold the interests of youth at heart when making decisions. But, as I write in my opinion piece with the San Diego Union-Tribune , when students began to get involved with the City of San Diego's 2020-21 redistricting process, students were not treated as such: At the recent redistricting hearing, Commissioner Fred Kosmo said , “I’m impressed with the college students and their enthusiasm, but a lot of people who have families and jobs — they came out, too. ... You can’t always get what you want, but you get what you need.” This tone-deaf statement implies that students are not employed or do not have families to support — and that affordable housing is not a basic need. Instead, the commission has demonstrated a preference for wealthy, single-family homeowners. Yet [student] voices have been drowned out at redistricting commission hearings. After dozens of students spoke out in special hearings for Districts 1 and 6, organized political insiders in La Jolla, including former council President Sherri Lightner, responded to our concerns by rallying to preserve the status quo exactly as it stands ... To date, the majority of commissioners have demonstrated far more concern for the feelings of these La Jollans than any other community. It is clear that students are not being treated as the stakeholders of the future––or even as community members––that they are often ascribed to be. San Diego Redistricting Commission, take note: students are far from done fighting. www.sandiegouniontribune.com Opinion: The redistricting process is ignoring the needs of UC San Diego students I have seen how my UC San Diego peers are ignored and viewed condescendingly. Next Previous

< Back Activating Youth: Catalyst Leadership Second Workshop Tuesday, August 22, 2023 Our Time to Act United MEDIA CONTACT: Mariya Grabovska, Press Intern ( mariya.grabovska@ottaunited.org ) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: In a transformative Activating Youth: Catalyst Leadership Workshop held on August 22, 2023, OTTA United unveiled a powerful model that explores the dynamics of leadership and connection, led by Aidan Lin, Executive Director, and Yvania Rubio, a former director at OTTA United. The workshop, hosted by Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties, brought together a diverse group of individuals eager to enhance their leadership skills and create meaningful connections. At the workshop's core was the innovative Activation model, dissected into two essential components: "Motivation" and "Foundation." From Motivation stems the crucial elements of holding accountability and inspiring action, while Foundation provides the building blocks of building rapport and showing vulnerability. This unique model demonstrates the inherent capacity of "Activation" to foster genuine connections. The event witnessed a remarkable crowd overlap between the two workshop days, indicating that participants not only found value in the initial session but were compelled to return for a deeper dive into the model's principles. We were very excited to see some familiar faces and meet more individuals interested in what OTTA offers. "We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Catalyst of San Diego, the organizers of this event, for recognizing and supporting the strength of our youth organization," said Aidan Lin. Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties commitment to empowering youth aligns seamlessly with our mission, and we applaud them for championing the cause. The first workshop, held on June 10, 2023, set the stage for the August event, and OTTA is thrilled to see the continued interest and enthusiasm from the community. Looking towards the future, OTTA is excited about delivering more training programs that serve and empower youth and youth organizations. While expressing gratitude to Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties, OTTA United looks forward to collaborating with various partners to expand its impact and reach. "OTTA United is committed to creating a lasting impact on the lives of youth, and we hope to replicate the success of this workshop in the near future," added Aidan Lin. Next Previous

Join us in advocating for more housing opportunities through the City's Housing Action Package 2.0.

Jordan (he/him/his) was once a football player with a love for basketball and now is a die-hard Celtics fan. Jordan is a proud Samoan, Black, and Mexican man who's turned past challenges into a powerful journey of growth. He is dedicated to making a positive impact and inspiring others, now serving as a Housing Justice Organizer. < Back Jordan Koster Housing Justice Organizer Jordan (he/him/his) was once a football player with a love for basketball and now is a die-hard Celtics fan. Jordan is a proud Samoan, Black, and Mexican man who's turned past challenges into a powerful journey of growth. He is dedicated to making a positive impact and inspiring others, now serving as a Housing Justice Organizer. jordan.koster@ourtimetoact.org

Pashe crisp (she/her) is a high school student currently serving as OTTA’s co-director of Engagement. Aside from being a student, Pashe is involved in various youth and community-oriented organizations in the belief that youth own the future and hold the power to shape it, (?) presiding as the co-lead of Team Enough, co-chair of SDUSD’s Environmental Literacy Task Force, holding seat at the La Jolla Playhouse Teen Council, and of course Our Time To Act in the engagement team. Having ample experience in communications, social media management, organization, and outreach Pashe joined OTTA’s youth-centered mission in May 2024 and strives to engage and enrich communities alongside the engagement team. < Back Pashe Crisp Director of Engagement Pashe crisp (she/her) is a high school student currently serving as OTTA’s co-director of Engagement. Aside from being a student, Pashe is involved in various youth and community-oriented organizations in the belief that youth own the future and hold the power to shape it, (?) presiding as the co-lead of Team Enough, co-chair of SDUSD’s Environmental Literacy Task Force, holding seat at the La Jolla Playhouse Teen Council, and of course Our Time To Act in the engagement team. Having ample experience in communications, social media management, organization, and outreach Pashe joined OTTA’s youth-centered mission in May 2024 and strives to engage and enrich communities alongside the engagement team. pashe.crisp@ourtimetoact.org

< Back to Open Positions Board Director Volunteer California | Remote APPLY Rolling Application ABOUT THE ROLE Working within the Board of Directors and reporting directly to the President of the Board, board members perform more than administrative tasks; they are the governing body of the organization that establishes and oversees our mission, priorities, business operations, long-term development, and finance goals. REQUIREMENTS Familiarity with OTTA United’s mission, vision, values, and goals Excellent written and verbal communication skills Organization and interpersonal skills Strong information analysis skills Goal and future-oriented decision-making skills Ability to understand and analyze financial reports Ability to evaluate executive performances Ability to participate in the execution of strategic plans Ability to fulfill fiduciary responsibilities ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION As a 501(c)(3) youth empowerment nonprofit, OTTA United is dedicated to building youth power (aged 15-24) in areas predominantly occupied by adults to benefit the community as a whole. 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. APPLY

< Back to Open Positions Advisory Services Event Coordinator Volunteer South Bay Area and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE Event Coordinators for Advisory Services run informational workshops designed to enhance the organizational and leadership skills of youth, offering them new methods and ideas for their own groups and organizations. Specific work includes creating an event plan, calculating event expenses, communicating with event personnel, and facilitating event execution and wrap up. REQUIREMENTS No prior experience required. Demonstrates proficient forethought and planning skills. High school student or beyond. 6-8 hours, 1-2 meetings a week. Our scheduling is highly flexible. Values cooperation, creativity, growth-mindset. Exhibits organization, diligence, and dedication. Passion for youth empowerment. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION While pursuing our mission of youth empowerment, Our Time to Act United understands the importance of fostering a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all. As such, the actions we take align with our values as an organization and as individuals. We value meaningful impact. We always seek to genuinely support those that we serve and the people within our organization. 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 is growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow for us to be a cooperative, productive, and effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you in order to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our organization, values, workplace environment, or the application process. APPLY

< Back to Open Positions Associate Executive Director (AED) Volunteer San Diego, CA, USA APPLY Rolling application ABOUT THE ROLE Position Summary: The Associate Executive Director (AED) will work closely with the Executive Director (ED) to co-lead and manage a team of directors, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic initiatives. The AED is responsible for overseeing various projects, attending key meetings, and representing the organization at internal and external events. This role requires strong leadership, people management, and project management skills. Additionally, the AED will undergo a mentorship period with the ED to ensure a smooth transition into the role and provide ongoing development opportunities. You must be located in San Diego. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Management : Co-lead and manage the directors alongside the Executive Director, ensuring collaboration across departments and policy enforcement. Strategic Planning : Support the ED in developing and implementing organizational strategies to achieve long-term goals. Project Management : Oversee the successful execution of key organizational projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and budget. Meeting Attendance : Actively participate in Office of the Executive Director (OED) meetings, director-level meetings, and other sessions to ensure cross-departmental coordination. Event Participation : Represent the organization at relevant events, including networking and community partner events. Operational Oversight : Assist the ED in day-to-day operations, providing guidance and support to department heads. Mentorship Period: The AED will undergo a mentorship period with the previous AED and Executive Director, where they will receive tailored guidance and support to ensure they are well-prepared to lead effectively within the organization. This period will focus on developing leadership capabilities, organizational knowledge, and strategic management skills. Mentorship will include regular one-on-one meetings, shadowing the ED in high-level decision-making processes, and receiving feedback to foster personal and professional growth. This role is ideal for a leader who excels in a collaborative environment and is passionate about driving organizational success through strategic management and people leadership. This role is ideal for a leader who excels in a collaborative environment and is passionate about driving organizational success through strategic management and people leadership. REQUIREMENTS Leadership Experience : Proven track record of leading teams. People Management : Strong experience in managing and developing staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. Project Management : Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, with strong organizational and time management skills. Strategic Thinking : Ability to contribute to high-level strategic planning and decision-making processes. Communication Skills : Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels. Problem-Solving : Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to seek out problems, think critically, and adapt to changing circumstances. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION 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. APPLY

< Back to Open Positions Board Member Paid San Diego, CA, USA APPLY ABOUT THE ROLE REQUIREMENTS ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION APPLY

< Back to Open Positions Director of Operations & People Staff Director (Volunteer) San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before January 28th, 2024. ABOUT THE ROLE Reporting to the Associate Executive Director, the main responsibility of the Director of Operations and People is to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of OTTA United’s team, systems, and processes. JOB DESCRIPTION The Director of Operations and People drafts, revises, and enforces workflows and policies that guide the way OTTA United conducts its work. Key job responsibilities include: Drafting, revising, and enforcing workflows Analyzing and improving task efficiency Performing administrative tasks that maintain function Generally managing the internal, day-to-day work of the nonprofit Boosting team cohesion, collaboration, and morale Hire and onboard new members REQUIREMENTS DREAM ROLE This is the dream role for someone who is skilled at identifying and solving problems, understand systems work, and can lead the enforcement of processes in a kind, understanding, and empathetic way. Additionally, this role targets those who are looking to kick-start a career in organization management, human resources, project management, or business administration and strategy. Key skillsets may include: Problem-solving, Authoring and enforcing policy Evaluating and improving systems of work A focus on efficiency and efficacy Being an empathetic leader EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Previous operations-related experience is required, with preference given to individuals with experience in youth or youth-related issues. A high school diploma is preferred, although not required if a candidate has exemplary youth operational experience. WORK MODALITY & LOCATION The work modality of this role is either hybrid or remote. Work is welcome in person at OTTA United’s office is 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 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: Mentorship and hands-on experience on hiring and onboarding practices Gain knowledge on nonprofit operations and processes Tailored work and growth to fit your desired career path Networking opportunities with community nonprofits, policymakers, elected officials, and companies Letters of recommendation Certified Volunteer Hours, if requested A tight-knit team and community of fellow change-makers EXPECTED HOURS & FLEXIBILITY In a Director position, expected hours fluctuate from 15-25 hours per week. Certain responsibilities, such as staff meetings, are fixed. Other obligations can be flexible around your schedule. Many staff members are also students, so our work environment is as flexible as possible. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION 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 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. APPLY

Gabrielle Darisme is a freshman at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York City. Although undecided on her major, she strives to pursue an interdisciplinary focus and is interested in environmental science, biology, public health, and international policy. Gabrielle is an avid world traveler and has completed internships in Belize, Costa Rica, and South Africa. She has been a dedicated member of the Our Time To Act family since her Junior Year of High School. Outside of school, she has received serval Future Business Leader of America (FBLA) Awards, a Presidential Volunteer Award, hosted a TEDx conference, and has had artwork exhibited in the San Jose Museum of Art. < Back Gabrielle Darisme Vice President, Governance Gabrielle Darisme is a freshman at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York City. Although undecided on her major, she strives to pursue an interdisciplinary focus and is interested in environmental science, biology, public health, and international policy. Gabrielle is an avid world traveler and has completed internships in Belize, Costa Rica, and South Africa. She has been a dedicated member of the Our Time To Act family since her Junior Year of High School. Outside of school, she has received serval Future Business Leader of America (FBLA) Awards, a Presidential Volunteer Award, hosted a TEDx conference, and has had artwork exhibited in the San Jose Museum of Art. gabrielle.darisme@ourtimetoact.org

Our Youth Voter Engagement Project (YVEP) supports the UCSD student community in registering to vote and participating in civic engagement. Learn more about our impact! YOUR GUIDE TO VOTING [RE-]REGISTER TO VOTE IN SAN DIEGO INFO ON CANDIDATES + SAMPLE BALLOT INFO ON CANDIDATES + ELECTION RESULTS SAVE THE DATES Above are quick links to guide your registering and voting process. Continue to scroll to read more about our Youth Voter Engagement Project! ENGAGE WITH OUR PROJECT LEARN MORE Learn about the problem and background of our project. SURVEY Fill out a 15 minute survey on voting registration at San Diego. BECOME AN AMBASSADOR Come join us as an ambassador and make an impact. Read more RSVP FOR THE DEBATE Come to our big event: the Political Candidate Debate. Read more ABOUT US Learn more about the people and passion behind the project. 60.6% of the undergraduate population at UCSD consists of students who are eligible to vote but are registered outside of San Diego or simply not registered at all . We spend nearly the entirety of our academic year in San Diego versus the three months possibly spent at home. As you attend UCSD you are going to be impacted by the initiatives on the ballot in local elections. It is essential we [re-]register to San Diego in order to ensure our voice, opinions, and needs are heard and represented by the political candidates that will govern us during our time in San Diego County. If we do not become voters we leave our fate in the hands of only La Jolla’s non-youth voters, out of touch with the needs of students and youth. If we choose not to become voters we lose the ability to influence decisions that disproportionately affect us. WHAT WILL IT TAKE? What will it take to create a culture of Civic Engagement at UCSD? What will it take for you to [re-]register in San Diego County and hit the polls this November? UCSD students are already civically engaged and politically active. YVEP does not believe the “politically apathetic” stereotype that has been pinned to our campus. On the contrary, we see the politically active and empathetic reputation UCSD students have created, whether it be through striking for better working conditions in the dining halls, or protesting for higher wages and affordable housing. We want to tap into that already existing culture of civic engagement and expand it to voting in order to ensure the concerns we voice are addressed by the people who are chosen to represent us. We want to not only make voting more accessible to students through our [re-]registration efforts but also through providing the resources necessary to become confident and informed voters at the polls this year, and in the future. To further encourage a lasting culture of civic engagement at UCSD, YVEP is also bringing the candidates to you! We will bring local San Diego candidates to campus to engage in town-hall style debate and attempt to win the student vote. This project has never been done before! UCSD students will lead us in our efforts to encourage overall youth engagement and participation at the polls. The student response we receive at UCSD will be extremely valuable to us when expanding our efforts to solve the issue into a national agenda in the future. HELP US SURVEY Help us by filling out a quick, 5 minute survey! This will help us understand how to best tailor our resources and engagement efforts to provide the most impactful support possible to the student body! THE ISSUE learnmore ambassador JOIN US BECOME AN AMBASSADOR We want to Unite with you! Join us in our efforts to increase San Diego registration and overall voter engagement on UCSD’s campus! What can Our Time To Act do for your organization and its members in order to assist you in creating a lasting culture of civic engagement at UCSD? Fill out this form if your organization has an interest in meeting with us to discuss becoming an ambassador for voter and civic engagement on the university’s campus! THE BIG EVENT Tritons' Choice @ Price To further encourage a lasting culture of civic engagement at UCSD, YVEP is also bringing the candidates to you! We will bring local San Diego candidates to campus to engage in town-hall style debate and attempt to win the student vote. WHEN WHERE October 24th 11:00 am - 3:00 pm The Forum @ Price WHO District 6 City Council candidates Kent Lee and Tommy Hough District 35 Superior Court candidates Rebecca Kanter and Mike Murphy RSVP FOR THE DEBATE debate about us NICOLE LILLIE YVE Project Director Nicole.lillie@ottaunited.org Nicole was born and raised in San Bernardino county, where she committed herself to civic engagement through peer-led voter registration drives, and a devotion to community service through Rotary International. Currently, she is studying Political Science with a focus on Public Law at the University of California San Diego and devoting herself to voter/civic engagement efforts in her new home of San Diego County. YVANIA RUBIO YVE Asst. Project Director Yvania.rubio@ottaunited.org Yvania is from City Heights San Diego however, she did study in South East Los Angeles, Tijuana, and Ensenada Mexico. She is now a part of the La Jolla Community as she pursues her Double Major in Political Science and Sociology for the next three years. ABOUT US Hi! We met in a Political Science class during our first year at UCSD and now we work together as youth leaders at Our Time To Act! We both care deeply about issues that disproportionately affect UCSD students, like affordable housing. We are dedicated to ensuring our peers needs are met and represented by San Diego County political candidates!