Search Results

< Back to Open Positions Graphic Design Intern Intern (Volunteer) San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before May 31st. ABOUT THE ROLE We are seeking a passionate and motivated Graphic Design intern to join our Communications team. This is a great opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands on experience and mentorship. Position responsibilities include to: Collaborate with the Communication’s team to curate printed and digital promotional materials for campaigns and projects (such as posters, presentations, and brochures) while following brand guidelines Design visual content and posts for social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn, research graphic design topics and case studies Assist in creating and managing content for the website (no coding experience or knowledge required) Attend Communication and staff meetings Further duties as assigned REQUIREMENTS A portfolio or a series of work showcasing skills in design and layout Proficient in Canva (Adobe Creative Suite is a plus) Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines Attention to detail and ability to balance multiple projects at once Able to work both independently and as part of a team 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

Is the San Diego Asian-Pacific Islander (API) community connected with local politics? Our API Voter Engagement Project (AVEP) utilizes surveys to research this relationship. Represent API Communities API VOTER ENGAGEMENT PROJECT "It is time that our elected offices are reflective of the communities they serve and that members of the API community have a seat at the table." JASON PAGUIO CEO, Asian Business Association San Diego THE FOCUS 9% Nationally, the number of eligible API voters has increased by 9% since 2018, compared to 3% among all eligible voters. The Asian-Pacific Islander Voter Engagement Project (AVEP) focuses on the factors around civil and political engagement or disengagement among the San Diego Asian-Pacific Islander (API) community . This campaign largely focuses on communities such as Mira Mesa, Kearny Mesa, and University City. Surveying is the medium in which we collect information, and the API Voter Engagement Project will be tabling at local community events to encourage survey responses. The survey will be rolled out to assess levels of civic engagement among the API community and to determine why or why not the San Diego API community is connected with local organizing efforts. THE CONTEXT During the 2021 San Diego City Council Redistricting process, we successfully pushed for higher University City to be moved into City Council District 6 to bolster the youth and API population. However, our work isn't done. Bridging the youth and API community will be fundamental to the success of the new City Council District 6. Strengthening this bond through community-building, outreach, and educational activities will provide a strong core of civic engagement and local participation for District 6. Civic engagement takes on many different forms, whether it be attending city hall meetings, signing petitions, or reaching out to local representatives. However, API community members are underrepresented in many of the avenues of political participation, if they are even given a seat at the table, to begin with. The API Voter Engagement Project would like to assess whether community members as they exist today feel empowered to be a vocal part of the community. Do folks feel that their vote matters in San Diego? Are their language needs being considered? Are API members of the community being overlooked by politicians? Perhaps taken for granted? These questions about civic engagement and the API community of San Diego are worth answering. After all, API political representation has come a long way in San Diego. Over the last few years, API members of San Diego have been fighting for increased representation in local politics. Certainly, an example of this broad effort can be seen with the newly redrawn City Council District 6, which includes the communities of Mira Mesa, University City, and Kearny Mesa. Has the API community noticed these efforts? Do these changes encourage even more civic engagement from the community? In 2020, API voter turnout was up 26% since 2008. Despite improvements, 44% of eligible API voters remained unregistered in 2020. THE IMPACT 346 20 330 4 Homes canvassed People Surveyed Hours worked Staff members THE SURVEY 1 Screening, 5 topics, 10 questions. That's all to it. Contents: Community Engagement Identities and Voting API Outreach and Presentation Reflecting on Your Vote Language Needs Take the survey yourself and be part of our initiative! View Survey Questions THE GOALS Here are our goals laid out. Show up for the community Build rap port with community members Connect with community leaders Collect 350 survey responses Analyze and share survey results Sparky.Mitra@ottaunited.org INSTAGRAM LAUNCH Take a look at Sparky Mitra's, AVEP Project Director, launch video explaining how her team plans to engage with local API communities in the upcoming election. The video is posted on our Instagram (@ottaunited). Go to Video MEET THE TEAM Our mission is dedicated to building your power in San Diego. We aim to connect youth to the API community in places of celebration via event participation and tabling. Thus far, we've worked on organizing youth throughout the redistricting process to champion not only youth voices but aim to build a stronger API district. Sparky Mitra Project Director Donovan Schipper Project Coordinator Benjamin Wang Researcher McKayla Sarmiento Researcher

< Back OTTA United Completes Youth Activation & Workplace Motivation Workshop Series with Catalyst Saturday, June 10, 2023 Our Time to Act United MEDIA CONTACT: Mariya Grabovska, Press Intern ( mariya.grabovska@ottaunited.org ) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OTTA United is proud to announce the successful completion of its Youth Activation & Workplace Motivation Workshop Series with Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties. This two-part series, conducted in collaboration with the California Department of Social Services as part of the Stop the Hate grant, focused on addressing the challenges of "activating" and "motivating" youth in diverse settings. Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties is a community of funders dedicated to investing in social change work. The Stop the Hate grant, a partnership with the California Department of Social Services, aims to support organizations facing difficulties in engaging and motivating youth across diverse contexts, including service, activism, and the workplace. The primary objective was to enhance understanding of the youth perspective, improve intergenerational workplace relations, and provide practical frameworks for incorporating youth into organizational activities. The first workshop, titled "How Youth See Themselves, and How the World Sees Them" was a tremendous success. It was facilitated by Nicole Lillie, Director of Housing Justice, who skillfully guided a diverse group of nonprofit leaders through a dynamic program. Participants were encouraged to examine their preconceptions and biases about both young and older individuals, inspiring rich discussions and insights. Key takeaways from Workshop 1 included valuable tips for optimizing youth outreach, all framed from the youth's perspective. The engaging format and thoughtful content left participants better equipped to bridge generational divides and activate youth engagement effectively. In Workshop 2, "Models for Motivation: Radical Candor in an Intergenerational Workplace" Aidan Lin, Executive Director, led attendees through an exploration of Radical Candor framework as a motivational tool. Radical Candor can be summarized by caring personally about the team, not shying away from being direct of giving feedback, and seeking feedback when necessary. This session emphasized the importance of vulnerability in the workplace and provided participants with a practical understanding of how to employ Radical Candor effectively. An interactive activity allowed participants to practice giving feedback using the Radical Candor model, enhancing their communication skills and fostering a culture of openness and constructive dialogue. Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties extends its sincere gratitude to Aidan Lin, Nicole Lillie, and all participants who contributed to the success of these workshops. The organization remains committed to fostering generational understanding and empowerment. Next Previous

< Back OTTA United hosts first-ever gala in December 2022 with awards, food, and celebration Sunday, December 11, 2022 Benjamin Wang, Staff On Sunday, December 11th, Our Time to Act (OTTA) United was pleased to conclude our eventful 2022 year under “A Sky Full of Stars,” the theme for our first-ever gala. This gala provided the perfect opportunity to thank the community leaders who give us their much-appreciated support and to recognize the passion and dedication of the OTTA United team. Hosted at the Multipurpose Room at the University of California, San Diego, OTTA United was pleased to welcome San Diego leaders such as Mayor Todd Gloria, Councilmember Joe La Cava, and Councilmember Kent Lee to the gala. While the audience enjoyed local San Diego Chinese food from Fan-Fan and butter mochi from KatKatxMochi, Mayor Gloria kicked off the night by delivering his remarks to the OTTA United crowd through a personalized video. Aidan Lin, OTTA United’s executive director, followed up by sharing four vignettes that encapsulated some of the lessons that he learned over the course of OTTA United’s growth and development. Authentic empowerment, leading by nature, and sharing our resources freely were some of the insights shared. Tommy Jung, OTTA United’s Director of Operations, then proceeded to present the internal awards, which celebrated the outstanding accomplishments of individuals within OTTA United. Afterwards, Executive Director Lin returned to the podium to present the external awards, which acknowledged San Diego community groups and individuals who went above and beyond in their support of youth causes and issues. Melanie Cohn, Alex Villafuerte, Jean-Huy Tran, and Tama Becker-Varano received the Youth Ally Award, which recognized the relentless commitment of these individuals to uplift youth voices. The San Diego Communities Collaboration Map Coalition and the San Diego Asian Pacific Islander Coalition both received the Coalition Builder Award, which recognized coalitions who did an exceptional job in shaping and leading our communities as a whole. Youth Will and the Asian Business Association of San Diego received the Outstanding Community Partner Award, an award that acknowledged and appreciates those who have demonstrated their steadfast support for OTTA United. Rhianen Callahan received the Legacy Award, a nod to a former member of OTTA United who made a lasting impact on our organization, and Judy Ki received the Legendary Youth Champion Award for fearlessly commanding respect for youth and youth leaders and for her support of youth causes using her own resources and networks. Next, President Janice Park, Ethics & Policy Committee Chair Gabrille Darisme, and Director Manu Agni of OTTA United’s Board of Directors answered the question “Why OTTA?” by delivering an interactive presentation about OTTA United’s values, determination, and accomplishments. Board Directors Park, Darisme, and Agni argued that supporting OTTA United is a phenomenal future investment – one that supports youth and the community. Finally, Councilmember Kent Lee delivered the closing remarks, wrapping up a monumental gala as he drew upon his own lived experience as a student at UC San Diego and a youth leader to reflect on the impact that the OTTA United youth have been able to make in the local community. Ultimately, this gala was a celebration of the bridge that OTTA United has built between youth and youth allies, a bridge more than 75 attendees and OTTA United board and staff are now able to cross for the benefit of the San Diego community. OTTA United would like to thank everyone who took time out of their day to share this special moment with us. OTTA United would also like to give a special thank you to Viet Vote, the Asian Business Association San Diego, and the YMCA of San Diego County for sponsoring our organization and gala! We would also like to thank Alex Villafuerte, the Asian Solidarity Collective, Judy Ki, Marina Tostado & Oliver Lin, Melanie Cohn, the Organization of Chinese Americans of San Diego, Ron Cho, Senate Pro Tempore Toni Atkins, Social Artistry, Tama Becker-Varano, and Trinh Le for being our lovely co-hosts. Because of your support, we are better equipped to fulfill our mission of organizing powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. We would also like to thank Councilmembers Joe La Cava and Kent Lee for making time to come to our gala. Last but not least, OTTA United would like to give a huge thank you to all of the volunteers, staff, and board members who helped make this night possible. In particular, this event would not have been possible without Isaac Lara and Rachel Choy, OTTA United’s Director and Assistant Director of Communications. 2022 was a wonderful year of organizing, mobilizing, and advocating, and we here at OTTA United look forward to another year of great success. Next Previous

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

< Back to Open Positions Assistant Director of the Local Leaders Program Volunteer South Bay Area APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director of Local Leaders directs the Local Leaders program, a hands-on community project designed to empower high school students in partnership with Title 1 schools. They are responsible for coordination between the Local Leader program’s Site Coordinators, Program Managers, and members. Additionally, they oversee our middle school tutoring program. REQUIREMENTS Prior relevant experience preferred. Demonstrates ability to develop a curriculum and guide the development of a target audience. Exemplifies strong leadership qualities. High school student or beyond. 8-10 hours, 2-3 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 Manu Agni, OTTA Board Director, participates in Voice of San Diego's Politifest as a panelist Saturday, October 8, 2022 Aidan Lin, Executive Director On Saturday, October 8th, one of the largest local government forums in San Diego, the Voice of San Diego's Politifest , commenced at the University of San Diego. OTTA United was proud to be represented by Manu Agni, Board Director, in the Fast Bus! panel. The Fast Bus! report authored by Circulate San Diego describes relatively quick and low-cost initiatives to improve bus speed, frequency, and dwell time. Manu is known for his work in transit. As an Urban Studies Planning student, he has worked for transportation consultants, partaken in advocacy work, and led projects at UC San Diego to expand access to transit for students and youth. Manu contributed a valuable youth perspective—armed with extensive knowledge and firsthand experience—to the discussion. OTTA United's work and mission were well-represented by his voice. We look forward to relentlessly championing youth involvement in all spaces, including transit, and thank Circulate San Diego for the invitation to join the panel and Voice of San Diego for hosting the event. Next Previous

< Back to Open Positions Assistant Director of Research Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director of Research works to further our organization's scientific understanding of youth empowerment and development. By proposing and answering applicable and tangible research questions, Our Time to Act United can improve our approach, methodology, and actions to further our impact on youth. REQUIREMENTS Prior academic experience required. Preferred in the fields of psychology, sociology, education, political science, or related subjects. Demonstrates ability to identify research questions and strong project management. Undergraduate or beyond. Exceptions for exceptional candidates can be made. Highly flexible hours. Meetings dependent on research schedule. 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

Hadil Salih (she/her) is a senior at San Diego State University studying Comparative International Studies with a double minor in interdisciplinary studies and Arabic and Islamic Studies. Born in Germany, raised in Sudan for five years of her life, and migrating to the United States contributed to Hadil’s passion to learn more about foreign relations as well as legal diplomatic procedures. This led her to study abroad via the federally funded and operated Critical Language Scholarship, intern for the Superior Court of San Diego, become the External President of the national club Empowering Women in Law, and branch into other forms of public service. Hadil was also a resident advisor for two years, and she was trained to help first-year college students through many hardships. This includes economic instability, mental health problems, and Title IX cases. Currently, Hadil is Our Time To Act’s executive assistant. She manages the schedule for the Executive Director, the Office of the Executive Director, and Senior Management. She also fulfills various administrative tasks and has been aiding in drafting the Standard Operating Procedures. Hadil is new to Our Time To Act and is excited to continue to watch OTTA grow and reach various communities. < Back Hadil Salih Executive Assistant Hadil Salih (she/her) is a senior at San Diego State University studying Comparative International Studies with a double minor in interdisciplinary studies and Arabic and Islamic Studies. Born in Germany, raised in Sudan for five years of her life, and migrating to the United States contributed to Hadil’s passion to learn more about foreign relations as well as legal diplomatic procedures. This led her to study abroad via the federally funded and operated Critical Language Scholarship, intern for the Superior Court of San Diego, become the External President of the national club Empowering Women in Law, and branch into other forms of public service. Hadil was also a resident advisor for two years, and she was trained to help first-year college students through many hardships. This includes economic instability, mental health problems, and Title IX cases. Currently, Hadil is Our Time To Act’s executive assistant. She manages the schedule for the Executive Director, the Office of the Executive Director, and Senior Management. She also fulfills various administrative tasks and has been aiding in drafting the Standard Operating Procedures. Hadil is new to Our Time To Act and is excited to continue to watch OTTA grow and reach various communities. hadil.salih@ourtimetoact.org

Faith is an Accountant at Our Time To Act and a student at UC Davis. She is a junior majoring in Managerial Economics and minoring in Accounting. In addition to her position at Our Time To Act, she works an on-campus job at UC Davis and is the Professional Relations Director of the Davis Accounting Society (DAS). On her free time, Faith enjoys watching YouTube and playing video games with her friends. Some of her favorite games are Valorant, Phasmophobia, Cave Crawlers, and Minecraft. < Back Faith Xiong Accountant Faith is an Accountant at Our Time To Act and a student at UC Davis. She is a junior majoring in Managerial Economics and minoring in Accounting. In addition to her position at Our Time To Act, she works an on-campus job at UC Davis and is the Professional Relations Director of the Davis Accounting Society (DAS). On her free time, Faith enjoys watching YouTube and playing video games with her friends. Some of her favorite games are Valorant, Phasmophobia, Cave Crawlers, and Minecraft. faith.xiong@ourtimetoact.org

Aidan Lin-Tostado (he/him) is the President of Our Time To Act. He co-founded Our Time To Act in 2018, serving as Executive Director during its rise as a powerful youth organizing nonprofit in San Diego. As President, he is honored to lead the volunteer Board of Directors in matters of general governance, budgeting, and mission advancement. Aidan works full-time at Nonviolent Peaceforce, an international civilian protection nonprofit. He also serves on the new California State Youth Empowerment Commission advising the State Legislature and Governor, the City of San Diego Youth Commission, and the San Diego Youth Homelessness Consortium Steering Committee. Aidan has received recognition for his work in the community, including the 2022 Community Service Award from San Diego Pride and the 2022 Bridge Builder of the Year from the API Leaders of the Year Awards. He is a student at UC San Diego and a 2024 McNair Scholar. < Back Aidan Lin-Tostado President Aidan Lin-Tostado (he/him) is the President of Our Time To Act. He co-founded Our Time To Act in 2018, serving as Executive Director during its rise as a powerful youth organizing nonprofit in San Diego. As President, he is honored to lead the volunteer Board of Directors in matters of general governance, budgeting, and mission advancement. Aidan works full-time at Nonviolent Peaceforce, an international civilian protection nonprofit. He also serves on the new California State Youth Empowerment Commission advising the State Legislature and Governor, the City of San Diego Youth Commission, and the San Diego Youth Homelessness Consortium Steering Committee. Aidan has received recognition for his work in the community, including the 2022 Community Service Award from San Diego Pride and the 2022 Bridge Builder of the Year from the API Leaders of the Year Awards. He is a student at UC San Diego and a 2024 McNair Scholar. aidan.LT@ourtimetoact.org

< Back to Open Positions Financial Analyst Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY 8/7/24 - 2/7/25 ABOUT THE ROLE Job Summary: Financial Analysts at OTTA will build the skills necessary to learn how to budget and forecast with $200k+ funding, utilize Excel to break down expenses and funding sources, and understand how finances work at a nonprofit organization. Financial Analysts will directly support the Director of Finance and Budgeting and will be able to work with other OTTA members across different departments. Job Details: Attend weekly working and check-in meetings with the Executive Director and Director of Finance and Budgeting Facilitate fund requests and allocate funding to different departments Review and maintain compliance with laws and financial regulations Use excel to model budgets and forecast funding for future years Attend all additional meetings and events determined mandatory by your project team. Attend all relevant meetings and events for Our Time To Act as determined by your director and/or the Office of the Executive Director. Bring your full self and your passion to your work, and actively contribute to the finances of Our Time To Act team with genuine passion. Hours Per Week: Approximately 5-10 hours per week. These hours are mostly flexible except for required weekly meetings. During specific campaigns or running up to events, hours may increase and become less flexible. You are not expected to work late hours, and some weekends may be required, especially for some events. Meetings usually take place from 5pm - 8pm on weekdays. REQUIREMENTS Required Qualifications: Youth, 15 - 24 years old Existing knowledge of how to use Google Drive applications (Gmail, Docs, Forms, Calendar, Slides, Sheets, etc.). Google Drive applications are used frequently. Basic knowledge of Slack, the communications platform. Attention to detail and deadlines. Ability to communicate well with others, including fellow team members. Ability to work successfully with a team. Ability to communicate feedback effectively and with care. Ability to be flexible and adaptable to evolving situations. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to problem-solve quickly when issues arise. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Our Time To Act is a youth-founded, youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. Our Time To Act 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