Legislative Director, MI ACORN
Posted: 2/4/08
Legislative Director, Michigan ACORN
Reports to: State Head Organizer and National Director, ACORN
Location: Detroit or Lansing
Michigan ACORN seeks a legislative director to guide its advocacy efforts with state government around predatory lending and foreclosure prevention, as well as other legislative issues that impact low- and moderate-income families. Applicants should have at least two years of advocacy and/or organizing experience, preferably with local knowledge of Michigan politics, and stellar communication skills.
Background: ACORN, the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now, is the nation’s largest community organization of low- and moderate-income families, working together for social justice and stronger communities. As national leaders in the fight against foreclosures, ACORN wants to ensure that American families don’t have their dreams stripped from them by predatory market practices.
Job Responsibilities: Bill tracking: Legislative Director will track the status of bills related to the ACORN Working Families Agenda, with a particular emphasis on foreclosure prevention and predatory lending.
Legislative Strategy and Advocacy: Legislative Director will meet with elected officials and staff, maintain an up-to-date whip chart, and coordinate members’ lobbying activities.
Membership Mobilization: Legislative Director will staff and work closely with legislative committee of members, and, in coordination with organizers, work to mobilize membership to contact key officials, including organizing a Lobby Day.
External Relations and Development: Legislative Director will sit at coalition tables, build and maintain relationships with allied organizations, seek grant money for legislative work, and organize banquets for allied elected officials and other fundraisers.
Qualifications:
- At least 2 years in legislative advocacy or organizing
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Four-year college degree (Bachelor’s)
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience and existing relationships in Michigan politics
This position reports to both the National Director of Financial Justice Center and Michigan Head Organizer
Salary is based on experience, with excellent health, vacation and pension benefits. Email cover letter describing your interest and qualifications, resume, writing sample, and three references with names and numbers to miacorn@acorn.org. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply – ACORN is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.
*For more information contact:
David Lagstein
Email: miacorn[at]acorn.org