COMMUNITY ORGANIZER

Hourly rate commensurate with experience. 

Hybrid: In-Person and Virtual 

Join UP! We are lighting the path home, one person at a time.

About Urban Pathways 

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves.

Job Summary

Reporting to and under direct supervision of the Director of Policy, the Community Organizer will help lead and organize advocacy efforts for individuals who previously experienced and are currently experiencing homelessness that are tenants and residents living in Urban Pathways’ supportive housing and safe haven program locations. The Community Organizer will assist with driving forward initiatives that promote education and advocacy for tenants and residents.  Key responsibilities include but are not limited to expanding opportunities for resident voices to be heard, participating in the agency’s direct-action campaigns such as the NYS Homeless Protection Act, nonpartisan civic engagement efforts and other opportunities that promote advocacy for the population we serve.  The Community Organizer will be a dedicated individual with lived experience or who has direct knowledge of the homelessness population needs, NYS and NYC policy advocacy, as well as outreach efforts to underserved populations.  The Community Organizer will be an active listener and respond exhibiting cross-cultural awareness.  

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions 

• Working with program staff and residents, schedules monthly Tenant Association and Advisory Board meetings to be held at program locations.
• Facilitates Tenant Association and Advisory Board meetings with residents and provides technical support.
• Maintain and organize data and conduct periodic assessments and evaluations to track progress on tenant advocacy initiatives.
• Work closely with the Finance Department to oversee and facilitate the use of allocated funds by Tenant Associations and Advisory Boards.
• Assists residents with planning events and activities to be hosted by the Tenant Association or Advisory Board.
• Help provide leadership training and skill development to tenant and resident leaders.
• Conducts outreach to residents to gain participation in Tenant Associations and Advisory Boards.
• Assists Policy Department with coordinating and organizing advocacy activities and events, and the consumer advocacy group, as needed.
• Engage residents in nonpartisan voter registration, education, voter campaigns, and other advocacy programs.
• Possesses a desire to ensure that tenants’ voices are heard; verbally communicates and advocates in a respectful manner.
• Accompanies residents to community events and advocacy activities, as needed.
• Performs all other duties as assigned and required.

Administrative

• Maintain accurate meeting notes and attendance records for all Tenant Association and Advisory Board meetings.
• Maintains and submits all necessary documentation, reports, and data accurately in a timely manner and as required by Urban Pathways.

Community Relations

• Develops and maintains constant relationships with Urban Pathways staff and residents.
• Develops and maintains positive relationships with community groups.

Communication

• Communicates verbally and in writing in a professional manner.
• Facilitates/attends staff meetings, training, and supervisory sessions, as required.
• Responds to all communications including telephone, email and other oral and written inquiries in a timely manner.

Qualifications, Education and Experience

• Possess lived experience with homelessness or living with a mental illness is preferred.
• Experience working with individuals who have experienced homelessness or who are living with a mental illness preferred.
• Experience conducting community organizing or related work in formal or volunteer capacity.
• Tenant organizing or housing advocacy experience is a plus.
• Experience facilitating groups and leading meetings.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Peer Specialist preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• Knowledge of virtual and in-person organizing.
• Experience and passion for community organizing.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as both part of a team and independently.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A proactive person-centered approach.
• Experience in working with diverse communities.
• Bi-lingual English/Spanish a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, (one-on-one and group dynamics), cultural competency, strong listening skills.
• Flexibility in schedule required to occasionally work evening and weekend hours.
• Ability to travel by public transportation throughout New York City.
• Commitment to Urban Pathways’ mission and to uplifting the voices of people with lived experiences of homelessness and mental health disorders.
• Proficiency in Google Suite & Microsoft 365, Videoconference, & technical online skills.

Capabilities

• Desire to perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Comfortable with using public transportation to travel to and from various programs sites.

Urban Pathways offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. 

These benefits include:

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.
• Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues.
• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.