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Aishwarya (Sparky) Mitra (she/her) is a Bioengineering student at the University of California San Diego. Hailing from Texas, she currently resides in California, where in her free time she serves as the University of California San Diego College Democrats’ President and the California College Democrats’ Vice President. Sparky has organized public comments and rallies in San Diego with the help of unexpected allies in unexpected places, gathering 200+ students and community members at each rally. Additionally, she has worked in many capacities with organizations such as March for Our Lives Texas as a translator, Our Time To Act as their API Voter Empowerment Project Director, her university newspaper, the UCSD Guardian, as their Opinion Editor/Section Lead with articles garnering upwards of 40,000 interactions, her student government, and various professional bioengineering societies such as the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering serving as an Executive Board member. Her primary focuses include advocating for housing justice, common-sense gun reform, reproductive rights, voting rights and access to education through equity-centered direct actions, and legislation. < Back Sparky Mitra Senior Director of Special Projects Aishwarya (Sparky) Mitra (she/her) is a Bioengineering student at the University of California San Diego. Hailing from Texas, she currently resides in California, where in her free time she serves as the University of California San Diego College Democrats’ President and the California College Democrats’ Vice President. Sparky has organized public comments and rallies in San Diego with the help of unexpected allies in unexpected places, gathering 200+ students and community members at each rally. Additionally, she has worked in many capacities with organizations such as March for Our Lives Texas as a translator, Our Time To Act as their API Voter Empowerment Project Director, her university newspaper, the UCSD Guardian, as their Opinion Editor/Section Lead with articles garnering upwards of 40,000 interactions, her student government, and various professional bioengineering societies such as the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering serving as an Executive Board member. Her primary focuses include advocating for housing justice, common-sense gun reform, reproductive rights, voting rights and access to education through equity-centered direct actions, and legislation. sparky.mitra@ourtimetoact.org

< Back OTTA United and community partners host a local candidate forum at UC San Diego Monday, October 24, 2022 Our Time to Act United On Monday, October 24th, OTTA United was pleased to welcome candidates for City Council District 6 and candidates for Office 35 of the San Diego County Superior Court to the Triton's Choice Candidate Forum. Although City Council District 6 candidates Kent Lee and Tommy Hough and Office 35 of the San Diego County Superior Court candidates Rebecca Kanter and Mike Murphy were all invited and confirmed to attend the Triton's Choice Candidate Forum, Tommy Hough and Mike Murphy were unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances. After all of OTTA United’s hard work and dedication, over 80 tritons were able to come and speak to local San Diego candidates, representing a resounding victory for student engagement in local politics. Leaders from the Youth Voter Engagement Project (YVEP), one of OTTA United’s project initiatives, worked tirelessly to bring this successful UC San Diego candidate forum to fruition. Nicole Lillie and Yvania Rubio, the Project Director and Assistant Project Director of YVEP, provided a space for dialogue between candidates and UC San Diego students so as to encourage mutual interaction and mitigate voter roll-off. According to William K. Hall of Bradley University, voter roll-off refers to “voters who cast ballots in the major partisan race such as president, governor, or U.S. Senator, but who do not cast their votes in [down-ballot elections such as] the judicial election.” Through the space that was provided, elected officials were able to speak about the importance of the city council and superior court races and why students should pay attention to these particular elections, with the intention of bridging any potential gaps in understanding about local candidates and forging confident young voters. Hosted at UC San Diego by OTTA United and our partner student organizations at UC San Diego, we called upon candidates to listen to students’ voices, and local San Diego candidates stepped up to the plate. As we celebrate the success of the Triton’s Choice candidate forum, OTTA will continue to champion student voices and listen to youth needs. Thank you to our collaborators for making this event possible, including: Associated Students of UC San Diego, Office of Local Affairs Graduate & Professional Student Association Seventh College Student Council Eleanor Roosevelt College Student Council Thurgood Marshall College Student Council Next Previous

Rachel Choy (she/her) is working towards a career in brand marketing. She joined Our Time To Act in April 2021 as the Graphic Designer and became the Assistant Director of Communications in July 2022. Throughout her time at Our Time To Act, she has seen the implications of and needs for visual communications to create impactful changes. Some of her work includes leading social media and website content projects, collaborating with departments for marketing campaigns, and rebranding the organization. Outside of Our Time To Act, Rachel is studying for a major in Marketing and a double minor in Graphic Design and Retail Studies at Santa Clara University (SCU). Rachel is also Co-Chair of the Asian and Pacific Islander Student Union at SCU. Here, she fosters community by providing spaces, resources, and events for API students. Furthermore, Rachel is currently a Marketing Intern for Noble Health where she researches social media strategies and designs promotional content revolving around mental health therapy. < Back Rachel Choy Vice President, Internal Affairs Rachel Choy (she/her) is working towards a career in brand marketing. She joined Our Time To Act in April 2021 as the Graphic Designer and became the Assistant Director of Communications in July 2022. Throughout her time at Our Time To Act, she has seen the implications of and needs for visual communications to create impactful changes. Some of her work includes leading social media and website content projects, collaborating with departments for marketing campaigns, and rebranding the organization. Outside of Our Time To Act, Rachel is studying for a major in Marketing and a double minor in Graphic Design and Retail Studies at Santa Clara University (SCU). Rachel is also Co-Chair of the Asian and Pacific Islander Student Union at SCU. Here, she fosters community by providing spaces, resources, and events for API students. Furthermore, Rachel is currently a Marketing Intern for Noble Health where she researches social media strategies and designs promotional content revolving around mental health therapy. rachel.choy@ourtimetoact.org

< Back Aidan Lin, Executive Director, awarded "Bridge Builder of the Year" for API Heritage Month Thursday, May 19, 2022 Our Time to Act United On May 19th, 2022, Aidan Lin was awarded the "2022 Bridge Builder of the Year Award" at the Asian Pacific Islander Leaders of the Year Awards hosted by the San Diego Business Journal and Asian Business Association San Diego . Aidan was recognized for his work with Our Time to Act (OTTA) United in his capacity as Executive Director for his leadership during the City of San Diego's 2020-21 redistricting process, during which OTTA United partnered with dozens of community-based organizations to push for equitable representation for the Asian, Latine, Black, and youth communities of San Diego. OTTA United is honored to have its principal leader recognized for his work in the community—particularly as a force for coalition-building and intersectional collaboration. As we celebrate Asian Heritage Month, we are proud of Aidan's accomplishments and the invaluable relationships we have built with San Diego's API community. Next Previous

< Back to Open Positions Administrative Interns (Quarter 3, Jul-Sep) Intern (Volunteer) San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Applications are due on June 16th. ABOUT THE ROLE The main role of the Administrative Intern is to learn and improve how work is completed efficiently and effectively at OTTA United. Administrative Interns are encouraged to adopt both a system-wide and individual approach to problem-solving and are assigned to a specific Director to support their work. We seek applicants who are passionate, solutions-oriented, and excited to dive into specific areas of work at OTTA United. TERM & PROCESS Q3 Administrative Interns are accepted for work between July 1st and September 30th. Administrative Interns may apply for multiple repeating terms. In July, Administrative Interns are introduced to OTTA United, staff members, and their fellow intern cohort. Interns are assigned to shadow and assist a specific Director depending on need and intern preference. By the end of July, interns will begin to formulate an Individual Impact Project (IIP) that serves as a guide for applied learning throughout the course of the term. At the beginning of August, interns will pitch their IIPs and begin work. They will meet weekly with their assigned Director and occasionally with the entire intern cohort. Along the way, interns will assist Directors with administrative tasks that provide experience and insight into the inner workings of a nonprofit. This will continue until mid-September when IIPs come to a close. Interns will give concluding presentations on their work and reflect on what they learned. Interns may also apply for an extension to continue their IIPs into the next term. INDIVIDUAL IMPACT PROJECT (IIP) GUIDELINES IIPs aim to improve the management of the nonprofit in order to maximize operational efficiency, program efficacy (impact), team cohesion, or the general advancement of OTTA United's mission. Interns are encouraged to design IIPs to improve the specific skills that best support their personal or professional development. One component of IIPs is a 1:1 conversation with a relevant subject field expert, which offers valuable growth opportunities for interns. Interns are encouraged to be creative and ambitious with their IIPs! OTTA United will support you in your quest for knowledge and growth. REQUIREMENTS EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE All youth (15-24) are encouraged to apply, regardless of education and experience level. 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: 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 An emphasis on connecting you to future jobs, either at OTTA United or within the community EXPECTED HOURS & FLEXIBILITY Interns are required to work at least 5 hours per week but are not expected or required to work more than 10 hours per week. Interns are allowed to work more if they so choose. Many staff members and interns are also students, so our work environment is as flexible as possible. Certain responsibilities, such as staff meetings, are fixed. Other obligations can be flexible around your schedule. 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

< Back OTTA United Receives “Partner of the Year Award” from YIMBY Democrats of San Diego Wednesday, August 23, 2023 Our Time to Act United MEDIA CONTACT: Mariya Grabovska, Press Intern ( mariya.grabovska@ottaunited.org ) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: San Diego, CA – August 23, 2023 – OTTA United, a formidable advocate for housing solutions and youth engagement, proudly announces its receipt of the "Partner of the Year Award" from the YIMBY Democrats of San Diego County. This prestigious award highlights OTTA United's exceptional dedication to the pro-housing movement and its unwavering commitment to amplifying youth voices in the community. The "Partner of the Year" award is a testament to OTTA United's unwavering dedication to promoting housing initiatives that benefit the entire San Diego community. OTTA United has actively engaged in critical conversations surrounding housing policy and has taken decisive steps to reach out to local universities, youth, and young professionals to foster greater community involvement. OTTA United takes immense pride in its nomination and its role as an advocate for a sustainable future, particularly for the youth of San Diego. Next Previous

Samyak Jain is majoring in Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He spends his free time dancing and spending time with his family. In his past few years being a Vice President with Our Time To Act, he has made countless priceless memories and connections and is looking forward to seeing what Our Time To Act will accomplish next. < Back Samyak Jain Secretary Samyak Jain is majoring in Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He spends his free time dancing and spending time with his family. In his past few years being a Vice President with Our Time To Act, he has made countless priceless memories and connections and is looking forward to seeing what Our Time To Act will accomplish next. samyak.jain@ourtimetoact.org

16 projects, 1000's of hours... check out our impact in connecting the San Diego community to efforts in housing, civic engagement, and more! Crossword Puzzle Answers The Liberated Peep Issue 001 Across 1. HOOKE 6. SPF 9. UNLOCK 11. TAR 12. BEDROOM 14. ICED 16. LLB 17. RESOLUTIONS 22. HOUSING 23. EMERGENCIES 27. BAN 28. ACNE 29. BREATHE 34. ADE 35. CRISIS 36. LSD 37. SLATE Down 1. HUB 2. ONE 3. OLD 4. KOR 5. ECOLOGICAL 6. STIR 7. PACE 8. FRESHENERS 10. KOLN 13. MBS 15. DOOR 18. LUG 19. USE 20. TIN 21. INCA 23. EBB 24. MARC 25. ENDS 26. SEED 30. AIL 31. TSA 32. HIT 33. ESE

Grayson Sciacqua (He/Him) is a 17-year old Environmental and LGBTQ+ Rights activist seeking a better future for Youth. As a Queer youth from San Diego, they are a proud member of Our Time To Act, serving as the Director of Operations and People and the Collaborative Learning Chair of the Civic Youth Action Network (CYAN). < Back Grayson Sciacqua Director of Operations and People & CYAN Advisor Grayson Sciacqua (He/Him) is a 17-year old Environmental and LGBTQ+ Rights activist seeking a better future for Youth. As a Queer youth from San Diego, they are a proud member of Our Time To Act, serving as the Director of Operations and People and the Collaborative Learning Chair of the Civic Youth Action Network (CYAN). grayson.sciacqua@ourtimetoact.org

< Back to Open Positions Youth Empowerment Researcher Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE Our Researchers analyze pre-existing literature on youth empowerment to guide the development of our programs and other youth-targeted nonprofits. This area intersects heavily with the psychological development in the adolescent phase, as well as the cultural and societal influences on pre- and post-pubescent youth. REQUIREMENTS Prior academic experience required. Preferred in the fields of psychology, sociology, education, political science, or related subjects. 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

< Back to Open Positions Marketing 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 driven and enthusiastic Marketing 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 develop and execute campaigns and strategies Conduct market research and analyze data to support marketing initiatives, contribute to the creation of marketing materials such as fliers, emails, and social media contents Help manage social media accounts and website Assist with strategizing event programing and outreach efforts Assist with Search Engine Marketing using Google Keyword Ads Attend Communication and staff meetings Further duties as assigned REQUIREMENTS Enrolled in a marketing, communications, or related field of study Strong writing and communication skills Familiarity with social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Ability to balance multiple projects and meet deadlines Able to work both independently and as part of a team Basic knowledge of graphic design software, such as Canva, is a plus 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 Grant Writer Volunteer South Bay Area, San Diego, and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE Our Grant Writers aim to fund our programs by writing compelling grants. They strive to condense our mission, goals, and achievements into an inspirational piece that organizations will resonate with and thus grant funding for. REQUIREMENTS No prior experience required. Must demonstrate the ability to write a compelling narrative. 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