Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now Seeks Legislative Director

Posted by on April 8, 2005

Legislative Director – PA

Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now

ACORN is hiring a full-time, salaried, Legislative Director in Pennsylvania, to start immediately. The position will report to ACORN’s Head Organizer in PA and to the national director of Public Policy. The State Legislative Director will oversee our legislative operation, which will involve planning and carrying out statewide policy campaigns, including lobbying at the capitol, mobilizing grassroots involvement, building coalitions, and media work. The position will require in-state travel.

ACORN is the largest low-to-moderate income membership organization in the country. We work at the local, state, and national level on issues including housing, education, jobs and wages, health care, and access to credit. In 2004 ACORN registered 1.15 million low and moderate income voters in 26 states, passed a state-wide increase in the minimum wage in Florida, won legislation against predatory lending in Massachusetts and the creation of a new state rental assistance program in New Jersey, among other major victories. ACORN is part of an council of progressive organizations that includes several housing development corporations; two multi-state unions affiliated with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), AFL-CIO; Project Vote; several non-commercial radio stations; a national tenants’ union and a leadership training institute — all working together to organize and empower low-to-moderate income Americans.

Pennsylvania ACORN has had a long history of building power for working families and preventing the transfer of wealth away from low and moderate income poor communities to the rich. Our current legislative agenda includes winning anti- predatory lending legislation, fair utilities rates and increased LIHEAP resources, dedicated funds for public transportation, and schools in which all children can succeed.

The ideal candidate will have:
? At least 2 years of experience working on issue or political campaigns.
? Grassroots experience including going door-to-door, making phone calls, and training field staff and or volunteers in these activities.
? At least 1 year of experience working on legislation and or lobbying.
? Demonstrated commitment to economic and social justice.
? Accountability to goals and a willingness to learn new skills and ideas.
? Good analytical and writing skills
? Ability to make a two-year commitment and to travel, preferably with own car

How to apply:
*Email the following to Ali Kronley at paacorn@acorn.org
? Resume and cover letter.
? At least 3 references that can speak to your direct organizing qualifications
? Please attach a writing sample

Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.