Board Member/Director of Advocacy & Public Policy Job Description

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Position Overview: The Director of Advocacy & Public Policy is a key member of United Social Services Inc. (USS), responsible for leading advocacy efforts and influencing public policies that align with USS’s mission. This role involves developing strategies to address systemic issues affecting at-risk populations, fostering relationships with policymakers, and engaging the community to promote equitable and sustainable solutions.

Time Commitment: 10 to 15 hours per month.

Reports To: Board of Directors and Founder/President & CEO.

Meetings and Responsibilities

• Attend scheduled board meetings, including regular, annual, and special meetings.

• Participate in community events, advocacy efforts, and fundraising activities to support USS’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

1. Advocacy Strategy and Leadership

• Develop and implement advocacy strategies to advance USS’s mission and priorities.

• Identify and address policy issues affecting populations served by USS, including homelessness, foster care, LGBTQ rights, disability access, and senior support.

• Work with the board, staff, and community to promote USS’s vision for inclusive communities.

1. Public Policy Engagement

• Monitor and analyze local, state, and federal legislation and policies impacting USS programs and services.

• Develop policy briefs, position statements, and reports to educate stakeholders and decision-makers.

• Build relationships with elected officials, government agencies, and advocacy organizations to influence public policy.

1. Community Outreach and Education

• Engage and mobilize community members, partners, and volunteers to support advocacy campaigns.

• Organize events, forums, and workshops to raise awareness of systemic issues and empower community involvement.

• Represent USS at public hearings, meetings, and coalitions.

1. Collaboration and Partnerships

• Partner with advocacy groups, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to amplify USS’s voice and initiatives.

• Facilitate coalitions and networks to drive collective impact on shared goals.

1. Communications and Public Awareness

• Collaborate with the communications team to develop messaging, campaigns, and materials to promote advocacy efforts.

• Utilize media and digital platforms to engage the public and share USS’s advocacy work.

1. Evaluation and Reporting

• Track and evaluate the impact of advocacy initiatives and policy changes.

• Provide regular updates to the Board of Directors and leadership team on advocacy progress and outcomes.

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Proven experience in advocacy, public policy, or social justice initiatives, preferably in the nonprofit sector.

• Strong understanding of legislative processes and policymaking at local, state, and federal levels.

• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills.

• Ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop actionable strategies.

• Passion for USS’s mission and a commitment to systemic change.