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Community Organizer with Faith and Action for Strength Together

Organization:
The Direct Action and Research Training Center, Inc. (DART) is a national network of 20 community organizations that unite congregations across racial, religious, and socioeconomic lines to pursue justice. Unlike charities and direct service providers, DART organizations seek long-term, sustainable improvements at a systemic level. DART organizations regularly conduct direct action assemblies in which thousands of people from a cross-section of faith traditions publicly hold decision-makers accountable on local justice issues. DART organizations' recent victories include:
• Winning statewide legislation to rein in the payday loan industry • Expanding drug treatment programs to reduce criminal recidivism • Plugging the school-to-prison pipeline by implementing restorative justice practices in public schools • Securing multi-million dollar investments in affordable housing • Increasing access to primary health and dental care
Responsibilities and Training:
In order to build power for justice in Pinellas County, the community organizer will:
  • Build relationships of trust among clergy and lay leaders from diverse backgrounds, and deepen their participation in the work of the organization
  • Train clergy and lay leaders in basic organizing skills, guide them in setting realistic yet challenging goals for their participation, and hold them accountable for fulfilling those commitments
  • Research viable, systemic solutions to community problems
  • Organize turnout for public meetings where 1,000+ people are mobilized to demonstrate support for these systemic solutions
  • Maintain financial sustainability by ensuring timely dues collection among member congregations, and annually coordinating a major 6-8 week investment drive
  • Assist in the recruitment of at least two new congregations into the organization annually
Intensive training is provided through the DART Organizers Institute, the five month field orientation program for new DART organizers. This includes an initial on-site orientation followed by field training and a weekly reading/discussion curriculum covering basic organizing principles. Initial skill development focuses on articulating the mission of the organization, intentionally developing relationships through one-on-one conversations, engaging leaders based on personal motivations, managing time effectively, running great meetings, building grassroots networks, long-term planning, working with clergy, and issue selection. Vocational development continues through annual training and planning retreats, summer staff retreats, and joint regional staff trainings.
Location:
This position is with Faith and Action for Strength Together (FAST) in Pinellas County, FL. Most of the work will occur in the community throughout St. Petersburg and Clearwater, but the central FAST offices are located at 1310 22nd Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL, and 1676 S Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL.
Salary & Benefits:
Starting salary is $34,000/year plus health benefits, with regular cost of living increases and performance-based raises. For candidates relocating more than 50 miles, $250 is paid to help cover relocation costs. Retirement benefits begin after a prescribed period (usually one full year of employment.)
Eligibility and Qualifications:
Community organizing positions within the DART Network are competitive. People of color are encouraged to apply. Qualities we look for in our hires include:
  • Core passion for justice and equality
  • Excellent relationship-building skills
  • Exceptional work ethic
  • Ambition for a long-term career organizing with DART
  • Comfort working with religious institutions
  • Fluency in Spanish or Creole preferred (not mandatory)
Basic eligibility requirements include:
  • Bachelors degree or equivalent professional experience
  • Proof of US citizenship or permanent residency
  • Access to a car with proof of insurance

How to apply

Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend an upcoming informational webinar on August 19 at 8pm EST. Sign up at www.thedartcenter.org/events
To learn more about DART and access the application, visit www.thedartcenter.org
You may also contact our Recruitment Director, Hannah Wittmer, with questions at: hannah@thedartcenter.org