About Us:
The J Healthcare Initiative is dedicated to addressing the toxic drug crisis by empowering drug users' healthcare choices. We envision a society where people who use drugs are treated with compassion, dignity, and respect, and have access to comprehensive, evidence-based healthcare services that prioritize their health and well-being.
Role Overview:
We are seeking a passionate and skilled Public Relations Specialist to help increase our organization's visibility and influence on drug policy in Canada and at the United Nations level. This role is crucial in shaping public perception and advancing our mission through effective communication strategies that center the voices of people who use drugs and other affected communities.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement a comprehensive PR strategy aligned with our mission and values, ensuring representation of diverse voices
Write and distribute press releases, media statements, and opinion pieces that highlight the experiences of people who use drugs, people living with HIV, Indigenous peoples, and other rights-holder groups
Build and maintain relationships with journalists, media outlets, and key stakeholders, particularly those from affected communities
Arrange interviews and media appearances for JHI representatives, prioritizing spokespersons with lived experience when appropriate
Monitor media coverage and respond to inquiries about our work and stance on drug policies
Collaborate with the social media team to ensure consistent, inclusive messaging across all platforms
Prepare JHI spokespersons, including peers, for media interactions and public speaking engagements
Create and maintain a crisis communication plan that considers the unique needs of our diverse groups.
Track and report on PR metrics and campaign effectiveness, with a focus on reaching and engaging affected communities
Qualifications:
* Strong understanding of harm reduction principles and drug policy issues
* Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to craft compelling, respectful narratives
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with sensitivity to diverse experiences
* Experience in media relations and crisis communication (formal or informal)
* Proficiency in social media and PR tools
* Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse team
* Commitment to JHI's mission and values
* Formal education in PR, Communications, or Journalism is an asset but not required
Time Commitment:
Flexible, approximately 5-10 hours per week. We understand that volunteers may have other commitments and health considerations, and we're happy to work with you to find a schedule that fits your needs.
Benefits:
* Opportunity to make a significant impact on Canadian drug policy and public health
* Gain experience working with a dynamic, mission-driven organization
* Networking opportunities with policymakers, healthcare professionals, and advocates
* Develop skills in advocacy, policy communication, and public relations
* Be part of a compassionate community working towards social justice
* Access to training and professional development opportunities
* Potential for peer support and connection with others who have similar lived experiences
To Apply:
Please send your resume, a brief cover letter explaining your interest in the role, and any relevant examples of your work or advocacy experience to volunteer@j-initiative.org . Include "Volunteer PR Specialist Application" in the subject line.
We Strongly Encourage Applications From:
* People with current or past experience of substance use
* Individuals living with HIV
* Indigenous, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples
* Members of other rights-holder groups disproportionately affected by drug policies
* Individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities
We believe that those most affected by drug policies should be at the forefront of shaping them.
We are dedicated to providing accommodations for persons with disabilities, health conditions, or other needs. This includes but is not limited to flexible scheduling, remote work options, and support for those in various stages of substance use or recovery. Abstinence is not mandatory for this role.
312 Main St, Vancouver, British Columbia V6A 2T2, CA
We are a registered Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to transforming substance use healthcare through peer-driven strategic advocacy and innovation. Our mission is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their drug use, has access to options of safe, effective, and dignified healthcare. We value harm-reduction, meaningful engagement with knowledge Keepers, the decolonization of substance use healthcare and decolonizing the current drug policies.
The J Healthcare Initiative has emerged as a powerful force in reforming substance use healthcare, balancing global advocacy with local action. We've successfully pushed for harm reduction in international drug policy, while also providing practical support through free smokable and injectable harm reduction supplies to youths who use drugs. Our partnerships with a few Canadian universities, offering paid internship and practicum placement for undergraduate and graduate student enable us to create the next generation of healthcare providers who understand the context of our toxic drug crisis. From presenting at international conferences to co-signing progressive drug policy manifestos, we're driving meaningful change in how society approaches substance use, keeping the well-being of individuals at the forefront of our mission.
This is a Virtual Opportunity with no fixed address.
August 23, 2024
