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Our team is crucial to the work we do. Scroll down to see where you can join in. Open Positions Open Positons On-Site (San Diego) Housing Justice Team Member Volunteer Position View Position San Diego, CA, USA Associate Executive Director (AED) Volunteer View Position 1 1 ... 1 ... 1

Stay up to date with Our Time To Act's latest announcements, updates, and news. Press Releases Empty Home Tax Proposal Coming to a Ballot Near You Mar 4, 2026 Announcing a new chapter of leadership at Our Time To Act! Jul 17, 2024 Announcing our new name: Our Time To Act Mar 4, 2024 Circulate San Diego Designates OTTA as Sustainable Growth Award Winner Sep 21, 2023 Activating Youth: Catalyst Leadership Second Workshop Aug 22, 2023 OTTA United Completes Youth Activation & Workplace Motivation Workshop Series with Catalyst Jun 10, 2023 OTTA United Celebrates Positivity and Community in Pro-Housing Listening Session May 6, 2023 Press Conference and Rally: The University Community is Pro-Housing Mar 11, 2023 OTTA United & students play a major role in successful push for more housing in San Diego Feb 15, 2023 OP-ED: "More Housing, For Us and Our Climate" by Nicole Lillie, Housing Projects Director Feb 6, 2023 Aidan Lin appointed by California Senate to new state-wide Youth Empowerment Commission Jan 18, 2023 Two young leaders, Nicole Lillie and Yvania Rubio, take new leadership roles on staff team Jan 17, 2023 1 2 3 1 ... 1 2 3 ... 3

Our Time To Act is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizing powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. Learn about our solidarity letter on student's rights and safety. READ MORE WE BELIEVE IN OUR MISSION The future is not something that just happens. It is created with intention, either by the status quo or by the people who dream for something better. Our society is suffering because we — future-shaping youth and youth allies — need more power to solve society's most existential problems: housing unaffordability, lack of public transportation, and neighborhood segregation; inequality of outcomes perpetuating injustice by class, race, gender, sexuality, ability, and more; and the climate crisis and environmental injustice. We organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. Will you join us in forging this ambitious, better future for us and the generations to come? ABOUT US Donate You power our work. Be a change-maker and help us advance our mission. DONATE Youth own the future. We're shaping it now. NAVIGATE TO: GOAT Model Events Support Us OUR STRATEGY Our GOAT change-making model Our Time To Act's dynamic approach to change-making is our "GOAT" Change-Making Model, which encompasses grassroots organizing, advocacy, and training programs. Rooted in the Trifecta Model for Youth Empowerment, we strive to foster a virtuous cycle of adaptation, opportunity, problem-solving, and impact. GOAT IN ACTION VIEW THE TEAM Grassroots Organizing Grassroots organizing is collective action powered by community based leaders and volunteers. HOUSING AVEP YVEP REDISTRICTING MIDWAY PROJECT Advocacy and Research Advocacy is a policy-based change-making using a small, well-trained team of advocates. Trainings and Workshops Trainings empower youth with the experience, network, skills, and resources to be impactful leaders. "Activating Youth" Workshop "Introduction to Advocacy, Mobilizing, and Organizing" Worskhop "How Youth See Themselves, and How the World Sees Them" Workshop GOAT Change-Making Model A COLLECTIVE EFFORT Be Part of the Team If you resonate with your mission or are interested in making an impact, consider joining the OTTA family by applying as a staff or board member! You can learn more about who's on the team here. JOIN THE TEAM FUND A DIFFERENCE Support the Work The biggest bottleneck in accomplishing our goals are funds. Right now, we work completely on a volunteer basis. Help donate today to rise money for resources and labor, enabling youth to make their voices heard. DONATE YOU'RE INVITED TO Upcoming Events Your chance get involved is right around the corner. With many events coming up, this is your opportunity to learn more about us, become involved in your community, and expand your network. July 20-21, 2024: San Diego Pride Festival It's OUR TIME to be OUT and PROUD! March with us at this year's Pride Festival or join us as a volunteer. LEARN MORE View our Past Events Our past events stand as milestones in our mission to create a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. Each event was a unique chapter in our journey, bringing together passionate individuals, inspiring discussions, and unforgettable moments. VIEW MORE Events STAY CONNECTED Make a Change The biggest bottleneck in accomplishing our goals are funds. Right now, we work completely on a volunteer basis. Help donate today to raise money for resources and labor, enabling youth to make their voices heard. Supprort Us Become a Member Join our community as a paying member to enjoy exclusive benefits, network with like-minded individuals, and be a driving force behind our work. Join Today Volunteer Roll up your sleeves and get involved directly in our initiatives. Your time and skills are invaluable in creating a tangible impact on the ground. Sign Up Donate Your contributions fuel our efforts and drive our projects forward. Your financial support ensures we can continue working toward a better future. Donate Today WE HAVE FUTURE PLANS Stay Updated By staying updated, you become an integral part of our mission. Your awareness and engagement contribute to positive change in the world. Here, you'll also discover the incredible impact our community and supporters are making as well as a behind-the-scenes look at our projects, initiatives, and events. Our Newsletter Our newsletter is your gateway to an exclusive world of updates, insights, and inspiring stories. Join our ever-growing community of newsletter subscribers and keep your finger on the pulse of all things happening at Our Time To Act! SUBSCRIBE Press Releases COMMUNITY FEEDBACK We Value Your Opinion We believe that the most valuable insights come directly from our community. Whether you have a question, a brilliant idea, or constructive criticism, we're eager to hear it all. Feedback Form SUBMIT Thanks for submitting!

< Back to Open Positions Assistant Director of Policy and Action Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director of Policy and Action works within the advocacy branch, with a focus on current legislative activity. They are responsible for coordination between Youth Advocates, Policy Analysts, and the Director of Advocacy, ensuring efficient analysis and action on legislation that affects youth. REQUIREMENTS Prior relevant experience preferred. Demonstrates ability to identify and pursue potential policy areas for action. 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

Apurv (he/him) officially joined Our Time To Act in 2020 as a Presidential Aid and transitioned through several different roles and responsibilities before becoming Director of Services in December 2021. Outside of Our Time To Act, Apurv is involved with clubs like FBLA, Debate, and the National Honor Society, but loves to play tennis and indulge in Taco Bell whenever he can. < Back Apurv Gupta Director of Services Apurv (he/him) officially joined Our Time To Act in 2020 as a Presidential Aid and transitioned through several different roles and responsibilities before becoming Director of Services in December 2021. Outside of Our Time To Act, Apurv is involved with clubs like FBLA, Debate, and the National Honor Society, but loves to play tennis and indulge in Taco Bell whenever he can. apurv.gupta@ourtimetoact.org

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

< Back to Open Positions Lead Editor Volunteer South Bay Area, San Diego, and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Lead Editor is in charge of Our Time to Act United's newsletter, website content, articles, and reporting. They compile internal information to create communiqués, document interesting instances of youth action or areas of youth need, and share this information through social media, news organizations, and on our website. REQUIREMENTS Prior experience preferred. Must be demonstrate ability to engage others through writing. 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 Policy Analyst Paid San Diego APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before March 1st, 2022. ABOUT THE ROLE As a member of the advocacy team, the policy analyst will be responsible for tracking San Diego municipal policy issues/debates. In 2022, the policy analyst will focus on affordable housing advocacy and the city budget. REQUIREMENTS Position Responsibilities: Track important bills/initiatives related to the San Diego City Council/Board of Supervisors Potential responsibilities include: Attending city council/board of supervisors meetings Reviewing meeting minutes and recordings of previous city council/board of supervisors meetings Reviewing and compiling list of related news articles and op-eds Quantitative/Qualitative analysis of potential impact on youth (aged 15-24) and the community at large Attend staff meetings Collaborate with the Director of Advocacy to write policy briefs/position papers Additional duties as assigned. Experience & Education: High school diploma required. Current undergraduate students are preferred. Previous experience in qualitative research is preferred. Hourly Commitment: Average 8 hours per week Compensation $17.30 per hour 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. 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. APPLY

< Back to Open Positions Assistant Director of Logistics Volunteer South Bay Area APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director of Logistics works behind the scenes to coordinate our organization's events and functions. They oversee the full preparations for events, finalizing a budget, locating the proper venue, coordinating personnel, and more with the help of Logistics Event Coordinators. REQUIREMENTS Prior relevant experience preferred. Demonstrates ability to think ahead, predict, and plan appropriately. 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 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 Senior Director of Programs Staff Director (Volunteer) San Diego, CA, USA APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before June 16th. ABOUT THE ROLE Reporting to the Executive Director, the primary job of the Senior Director of Programs leads three direct reports: the Director of Organizing, the Director of Advocacy & Research, and the Director of Services. JOB DESCRIPTION The Senior Director of Programs plays an influential role in building strong, stable, and successful programs within the three areas they oversee: organizing, advocacy & research, and services. Job responsibilities include: Set goals REQUIREMENTS DREAM ROLE This is the dream role for someone with strong abilities to set great goals, operationalize success, and lead direct reports in a collaborative, empathetic way. Key skillsets may include: Community organizing Program design and leadership Ability to inspire, train, and empower youth sociopolitical awareness to achieve change and help others to do so Passion and commitment A “do-er” (strong implementation skills) EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Previous organizing experience is required, with preference 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. WORK MODALITY & LOCATION OTTA United’s office is located in San Diego, California (3252 Holiday Court Ste 103, San Diego, CA 92037). CYAN will be launched in San Diego, so applicants must be in the San Diego region with the ability to travel around the City of San Diego and to the OTTA United office. The work modality is hybrid, with some required meetings at the OTTA United office. 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: Tailored work experience 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 Senior Director position, expected hours fluctuate from 15-30 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. Approximately 80% of meetings will be conducted online, with some optional in-person attendance, and 20% will be conducted in person. 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 Aashika Srinivas, Policy Analyst, presents redistricting reform research to SD City Council Wednesday, April 20, 2022 Leana Cortez, Director of Advocacy If one were to describe the 2020-2021 San Diego Redistricting process, “equitable” would scarcely be used. The current structure of the process enforces the power of wealthy, single-family homeowners while leaving San Diego’s youth and BIPOC communities vastly underrepresented. As youth ourselves, OTTA United endeavored to disrupt this structure and begin our research for reform. These measures included: Changing the appointing authority. Partial district detachment. Implementation of a two-part selection process. These proposed changes would simply bring San Diego’s City redistricting process up to par with our neighboring cities and the state. Aashika Srinivas, policy analyst at OTTA United, brought these reform suggestions to the San Diego City Council Rules Committee on April 20th, 2022. She did a wonderful job presenting during non-agenda public comment and caught the attention of two councilmembers. Councilmember Chris Cate commented that he was "encouraged by some of [Aashika's] ideas." Council President Sean Elo-Rivera was "intrigued by the presentation," "appreciate[d] the level of civic engagement of the youth who presented," and thanked us for "having engaged in the redistricting process." With this encouragement, OTTA United will continue to meet with councilmembers to figure out the further development and implementation of such reforms to ensure just representation occurs for the diverse city of San Diego. Next Previous