Head Organizer, Michigan Acorn

Posted: 11/10/08
Location: Detroit

Work for the organization that John McCain thinks is the most dangerous in America!

Detroit ACORN is hiring a full-time Head Organizer. The Head Organizer is the equivalent of other organization’s Executive Director.

The Head Organizer will oversee all operations in the Detroit and Southeastern Michigan. This will include:

  • Building power and creating a voice for low and moderate income people
  • Working with the membership Board and other grassroots leadership.
  • Planning and carrying out city policy and corporate campaigns, mobilizing grassroots involvement, and working with ACORN leaders on events and strategy
  • Developing an implementing a strategy to engage mayoral candidates on the issues of ACORN members
  • Supervision and development of staff
  • Coordinate with ACORN offices in Lansing, Flint and Grand Rapids on state campaigns and agendas
  • Being part of a national movement engaged in transformative change at the national level.
  • Planning overall budgets and managing fundraising efforts, including foundations and grassroots fundraising.

ACORN is the largest low-to-moderate income membership organization in the country. We work at the local, state, and national levels on issues including housing, racial justice education, jobs and wages, health care, and access to credit.

The ideal candidate will have:

  • At least 2 years of experience working on community, labor, political or other organizing efforts.
  • Grassroots experience including door-to-door work, phonebanking, and training field staff or volunteers in these.
  • At least 1 year of staff management experience.
  • Demonstrated commitment to economic and social justice.
  • Accountability to goals and a willingness to learn new skills and ideas.
  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Ability to recruit and motivate diverse groups of people.
  • Willingness to make a two-year commitment and to travel for training.

The position includes:
Salary dependent on experience. Full healthcare, paid vacations and holidays, and pension.

How to apply:
Email the following to David Lagstein, State Head Organizer, at miacorn[at]gmail[dot]com People of color, women, and bilingual candidates strongly encouraged to apply:

  • Resume and cover letter.
  • At least 3 references that can speak to your direct organizing qualifications.