• Coordinator, Equally Blessed (posted 01.09.2012)
• Field Director - MassEquality (posted 01.05.2012)
• GLBT Program Coordinator - Minneapolis Public Schools (posted 01.03.2012)
• Faith and Reproductive Justice Leadership (posted 11.29.2011)

Coordinator, Equally Blessed

Part-time, grant-funded position. 15-20 hours/week

Background. Equally Blessed is a coalition of four national Catholic organizations which work for justice and equality for LGBT people in church and society. We are seeking a part-time coordinator to manage the day-to-day work of the coalition, as well as to oversee special projects and initiatives as they arise. At present, Equally Blessed is involved in communications work to amplify the voice of the majority of US Catholics who support justice and equality for LGBT people, as well as education and advocacy projects consistent with our mission. Coalition partners meet via conference call at least once a month; we also meet in person about five times a year.

Equally Blessed partner organizations maintain separate offices in Boston, MA, Chicago, IL, Rochester, NY, and the Washington, DC area. We would prefer an employee who could work out of one of these offices; we will also entertain the possibility of an offsite employee.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manages all administrative work of the coalition, other than financial management. Includes meeting scheduling, maintaining minutes, responding to inquiries, etc.
• Works with coalition partners and contracted communications firms in facilitating circulation of statement drafts and final releases.
• Manages coalition website and social media outlets.
• Coordinates workflow on coalition projects.
• Represents coalition members at conference outreach booths.
• Develops and maintains effective networking with other key social-justice individuals and groups in furtherance of the coalition¡¦s goals.

This position may require occasional travel and the possibility of some evening and weekend hours.

Education, Background, and Skills, and Experience

• Two to three years experience working toward social justice goals, emphasis on Catholic church reform and/or LGBT issues preferred
• Excellent spoken and written communication skills
• Strong organization skills
• Ability to negotiate a variety of organizational cultures and work with a variety of personalities.
• Social media/website content management experience
• Proficiency in all standard office software
• BA or equivalent experience required
• Self-starter and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Preferred Start: Approximately March 15, 2012

Applications must be received by February 1, 2012. Please submit cover letter and resume by email to jobs@equally-blessed.org.

For more information on Equally Blessed, visit www.equally-blessed.org.

DignityUSA serves as administrator of the grant providing funding for this position. It is the policy of DignityUSA to provide equal employment opportunity to all people without regard to race, creed, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, marital/partnered status, national origin or disability. DignityUSA is committed to assuring equal opportunity and equal consideration to all applicants and employees in personnel matters, including recruitment and hiring, training, promotion, salaries and other compensation, or termination.

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Field Director - MassEquality

Reporting to: Director of Public Policy and Political Affairs

Background:

Founded in 2001 to promote and protect marriage equality in Massachusetts, MassEquality now works to ensure that every lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) person is protected from cradle to grave – with equal opportunities in schools, in marriage and family life, at work and in retirement.

Position Summary:

MassEquality seeks a Field Director with at least five to seven years experience, to oversee a team of talented individuals working to build long-term community and political infrastructure while delivering concrete legislative and electoral victories to ensure Massachusetts’ continued leadership in promoting and advancing equality and justice for all members of the LGBT community. The Field Director will report to the Director of Public Policy and Political Affairs, guide organizational direction as a member of the Management Team, and supervise a team comprised of two full-time staff.

Organizing and Coalition Building

• Design and oversee comprehensive plan to engage, develop, and assist local activists to build long-term community and political infrastructure throughout Massachusetts;
• Develop and execute educational and organizing campaigns designed to support legislative, policy and public education initiatives (and support partner organizations in doing the same, as their legal status allows);
• Educate a range of audiences about legislative, electoral, and educational organizing through a long-term community-building lens at conferences, workshops, trainings and other public speaking (some travel required);
• Develop and participate collaboratively and actively in coalitions with LGBT and allied organizations working across issues, identities, and communities to advance justice and equality for all LGBT people;
• Respond to requests for information, resources, and technical assistance from local activists and coalition partners as appropriate;
• Provide training, guidance, technical support, and long-term capacity building to partner statewide LGBT advocacy organizations;
• Integrate online communications and organizing with offline organizing, mobilizing and events.

Electoral

• Work closely with the Director of Public Policy and Political Affairs to elect and re-elect pro-equality candidates;
• Support the MassEquality PAC board;
• Shepherd the endorsement process;
• Design and execute plans to register and educate voters;
• Design and execute campaign field plans for electoral strategy;
• Assist Director of Public Policy and Political Affairs in building and managing strong relationships with elected leaders and staff;
• Educate potential LGBT candidates about how to effectively run a campaign.

Management

• Manage and develop two field organizers;
• In collaboration with other department leaders, craft and oversee the field department’s annual strategy, work plan, and budget, and assist with development and implementation of individual work plans and budgets for direct reports;
• Develop tools and metrics to assess the success of field organizing efforts;
• Compile regular reports for the board;
• Role model cross-departmental collaboration and assist in the development and direction of organizational strategy as a member of the Management Team;
• Represent MassEquality and its mission in the community;
• Work with the communications team to develop key content for website and assist with social media campaigns to advance advocacy initiatives;
• Oversee intern and volunteer recruitment and development.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the Executive Director and/or the Director of Public Policy and Political Affairs.

Minimum Qualifications:

All candidates must have a “can do” attitude, enjoy a fast-paced environment, be highly organized without losing sight of larger objectives, and be committed to justice and equality for all LGBT people across issues, identities, and communities.

• Minimum of 4-5 years experience in grassroots organizing and/or campaigns (electoral and issue preferred);
• Experience including design and implementation of political canvasses is highly desirable;
• Knowledge of Massachusetts political and electoral communities and laws is highly desirable;
• Understanding and enjoyment of multifaceted advocacy that combines legislative strategy, grassroots organizing, media relations, policy analysis and coalition-building activities;
• Demonstrated ability to forge productive and healthy collaborations;
• Excellent writing, verbal and interpersonal skills, including public speaking;
• Knowledge of interplay, distinctions and legal requirements of 501c(3), 501c(4) and Political Action Committees essential;
• Keen analytical skills and attention to detail;
• Ability to think “big picture” as well as to translate ideas into realistic, actionable plans;
• Able to handle and prioritize appropriately multiple tasks in a timely and efficiently manner;
• Ability to synthesize policy and political information for different audiences;
• Ability to collaborate on projects with staff from other departments, and a high level of personal investment in contributing to the priorities of the organization as a whole;
• Experience developing and managing work plans and project budgets as well as training, supervising, and developing staff and volunteers;
• Willingness to travel and work evenings and weekends as projects demand it;
• Demonstrated experience with LGBT issues is preferred; commitment and desire to work in a multi-cultural environment where diversity based on race, ethnic origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, physical ability, family status and other characteristics is an important and practiced value is essential.

To Apply:

Please forward via email a letter of interest, resume, and salary requirements by January 20, 2012 to Otto O’Connor (OttoOconnor@MassEquality.org). Please include “Field Director Application” in the subject line.

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GLBT Program Coordinator - Minneapolis Public Schools

Department: Diversity & Equal Employment Opportunity

Position Code: 30022352 - Coordinator, GLBT

Work Hours: 40 hrs, 52 wks

Application Deadline: 01/11/2012

SUMMARY

Under general supervision, administers and coordinates specialized educational support and services programs to increase the academic achievement of Gay Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender students.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions, but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Leads MPS District efforts to fulfill the tenants of the Board Resolution in support of the Out4Good Program.
• Creates and monitors mechanisms for data collection regarding the experiences and well-being of LGBT students and behavior incidents involving anti-LGBT bias.
• Administers and coordinates a variety of support programs, student services, and community services, and fundraising in support of MPS goals; performs duties within scope of authority and training, and in compliance with MPS policies; duties will vary according to job assignment.
• Plans, organizes, guides and manages the implementation of GLBT program activities including site administration, instruction, and communications.
• Recruits, trains and provides oversight, resources and on-going communication to high school support group leaders and Gay/Striaght Alliance Advisors
• Creates, reviews and evaluates curriculum, training, program evaluation, and program goals.
• Develops and implements district wide training events on topics such as LGBT Cultural Competency, Understanding Gender Identity, LGBT Inclusive Curriculum, Responding to Name Calling and Harassment, and Bully Prevention and Intervention.
• Creates and facilitates community service learning-student organizing activities for GLBT youth through Gay/Straight Alliances, Support Groups, and Peer Educaiton.
• Works collaboratively with MPS departments and committees such as the Office of General Counsel, Student Support Services, Teaching and Learning, and The Equity and Achievement School Board Committee to develop and enhance policies, procedures and curriculum for the district to become more inclusive of GLBT students, staff and families.
• Provides intensive technical assistant to schools and departments, including conflict mediation, planning, program development, and implementation assistance.
• Researches and identifies grant funding opportunities that meet MPS needs and are consistent with the Department’s objectives; assist MPS staff with grants prospecting and technical research.
• Develops and circulates GLBT awareness materials in school sites and departments.
• Develops, facilitates and maintains district wide GLBT network for staff and families, and develops working relationships with principals, Legal Services, and Human Resources.
• Supports the relationship between MPS and the community by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with students, clients, visitors, and MPS staff; enthusiastically promotes the Superintendent’s goals and priorities in compliance with all policies and procedures.
• Coordinates projects and communications with community organizations and program partners; reviews and coordinates contracts and agreements. Maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, records and MPS information; performs related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training and Experience Guidelines

Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Community Studies, Social Service, Youth Developoment or related field; AND three year’s experience working with public education support programs; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.

Knowledge of:

• Applicable policies, procedures and regulations covering specific areas of assignment.
• Rules and regulations of the Minnesota Department of Education and other governing agencies.
• Best practice research and theory on GLBT populations and youth development.
• Age appropriate curriculum.
• State and Federal laws governing public sector grant funded programs.
• Principles and practices of public sector administrative management, customer service and employee supervision.
• Local community resources, regional community services programs, and regional training programs.
• Personal computers utilizing standard software, and specialized MPS and state agency software applications and procedures.
• Principles of record keeping and records management.
• Safety rules and regulations.

Skill in:

• Reading, interpreting, understanding and applying program standards and procedures, applicable Federal and state rules and regulations, and MPS policies and procedures.
• Using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.
• Administering educational and school support programs.
• Identifying problems and opportunities, and developing solutions.
• Planning, organizing, and coordinating the work of assigned staff.
• Assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects and demands.
• Researching computer databases, and compiling information for reports and special projects.
• Providing effective customer service, and dealing tactfully and courteously with the public.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co-workers, clients and community agencies.
• Effective verbal and written communication.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

A valid Minnesota State Driver’s License may be required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a standard office environment which requires occasionally lifting such articles as file boxes

SALARY

1.0 FTE, 52 Weeks - MAAC-D 71,963 - $82,872

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

James Burroughs, at James.Burroughs@mpls.k12.mn.us.

METHOD OF APPLICATION

All applicants, including MPS employees, must complete an on-line application at www.mpls.k12.mn.us (click on employment). IN addition, upload an electronic copy of both your cover letter and resume to your application at the time that you apply. Make sure that you apply for the specific position in which you are interested. Only complete applications, which include all the following items, will be considered:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• On-line application

Final candidates may be invited to interview with a committee. Final appointment to this position will be contingent upon passing a criminal background check.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY

Minneapolis Public Schools will not deny anyone the opportunity for training or employment because of sex, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, marital status, age, sexual preference, disability or status with regard to public assistance.

The Minneapolis Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action School District

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Faith and Reproductive Justice Leadership

The Faith and Progressive Policy Initiative at the Center for American Progress is seeking a diverse group of faith-based leaders to lend their voice, commitment, and leadership to the reproductive health, rights, and justice movement. Our goal is to help build a new generation of emerging and seasoned leaders, especially from communities of color: women and men committed to reproductive health, rights, and justice as part of their faith, conscience, and moral code.

The Faith and Reproductive Justice Leadership Institute will take place during 2012 and include two convenings in Washington, DC, as well as frequent communications and activities in the interim. Each convening will last two days. One will be held in the spring and one in the fall. During the convenings we will provide:

• Timely briefings on reproductive health policies
• Roundtable exchanges on best practices and challenges facing faith-based reproductive rights advocates
• Communications and media training, including new models for communicating with people of faith on reproductive health, rights, and justice
• Opportunities to strengthen alliances with each other and with progressive allies
• Application of skills and resources to leaders’ ongoing and new work

Leader Profile

We are looking for highly motivated participants seeking to expand their skills, perspectives, and networks in order to achieve faith-based social change. Applicants might be clergy, seminary students, faith-based advocates, or those working in sexual health or reproductive rights and justice with experience in and a commitment to working with faith communities. Participants agree to:

• Help shape and deliver effective messages concerning conscience, faith, and morality regarding women’s reproductive health in order to help fill the “moral vacuum” in public discourse on these issues
• Bring a commitment to and understanding of racial justice, especially as it affects reproductive health and rights issues
• Be able to connect reproductive health and rights to broader issues of social justice
• Serve as a public spokesperson for these issues

We encourage younger people and people of color to apply. Currently employed applicants should secure written support from a supervisor affirming their participation in the program’s activities.

Why a Leadership Institute?

Since last year’s mid-term elections, more than 900 legislative measures have been introduced at the state and federal level to restrict women’s access to reproductive health care, including family planning services, PAP smears, abortion, and more. More than 64 bills have been passed. Although voters recently defeated the Personhood Amendment in Mississippi, its promoters say they will introduce the amendment in several new states in the coming year. Other serious setbacks to reproductive health include restrictive measures to roll back comprehensive sexuality education and a concerted demonization of reproductive health providers, organizations, and users.

Conservative religious and political leaders are leading these efforts, claiming that they are the sole champions of moral values, religious truth, and the public good. However, their impact has been dangerous for women, who already bear the brunt of health disparities and pay more for health care than men. Furthermore, low-income women face increasing rates of unintended pregnancy, while policy makers add more restrictions to reproductive health care. Women of color endure even more burdens. An African American or Latina woman is more likely to live in poverty, incur higher rates of disease, have less access to health care, and experience a higher risk of unintended pregnancy than her white counterpart.

In order to stop these assaults on women’s reproductive health and gain ground on reproductive rights and justice, we need to support and amplify the good work that faith-based groups are doing; strengthen faith-based leadership, messages, and messengers on reproductive health, rights, and justice; and incorporate into our work spiritual and moral values that resonate with the public and recognize individual conscience and human complexity.

Selected participants agree to:

• Participate in a spring and fall convening
• Read materials prior to meetings and review research polling, project reports, and other written materials in a timely manner
• Incorporate knowledge and training in volunteer efforts or work, where appropriate. This may include:
• Briefing colleagues, organizations, and/or personal networks
• Incorporating message frames into ongoing and new communications
• Providing feedback on effectiveness of these message frames
• Participating as media spokesperson and public speaker

Application process and deadline

• Resume & Personal Statement: no more than two pages indicating the reason(s) you are applying to the program, what you hope to gain from it, your background in faith-based work and reproductive health, and your goals for changing the public discourse on reproductive health, rights, and justice issues.
• One current recommendation letter: Letter should speak to your relevant background and skills.
• There is no monetary compensation or stipend associated with the program, but agreed upon travel costs and lodging will be provided. Participants must be able to attend both convenings and will be bound by Center for American Progress’ rules and restrictions.
• Deadline for applications: January 15, 2012. Please send applications to Eleni Towns at etowns@americanprogress.org or Center for American Progress, 1333 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20005.

Download the application (pdf)

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