For over 40 years, Common Cause has been at the forefront of the democracy movement by building a base of Americans that are educated and civically engaged in strategic campaigns to achieve tangible political reforms. Using our network of 35 state organizations and Washington DC headquarters, Common Cause Illinois (CCIL) was re-launched in early 2012 to help bring about a paradigm shift in Illinois that will result in a government that is responsive, accountable, transparent, and effective.
Over the past three years, CCIL has been successful in moving the needle of democracy reform through our unique model of education, civic engagement, coalition building, policy analysis, advocacy, lobbying, and community organizing. Since our re-launch we have successfully helped pass political including the passage of online voter registration and same day voter registration. We have led organizing campaigns to pass a Chicago ballot question, a Chicago city council resolution, and a joint resolution of the Illinois legislature, all calling on Congress to overturn the misguided Supreme Court case Citizens United v FEC. We also led a campaign that included a Chicago city council resolution opposing the selling of the Tribune company newspapers to the Koch Brothers, and most recently leading the campaign to pass a ballot question calling on Chicago to adopt small-donor public financing system for the City of Chicago.
Common Cause Illinois is seeking an accomplished, strategic, and collaborative organizer to lead our efforts to build a stronger, more diverse base throughout the state of Illinois that will build on our victories and ensure that we are furthering the cause of justice by holding power accountable.
Job Responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of the Executive Director, the Lead Organizer responsibilities include but are not limited to the following.
- Develop and staff Common Cause Illinois’ action teams and program committees
- Build coalition support, organize members and educate the public and elected officials on issues.
- Develop and write public outreach materials including factsheets, action alerts, presentations and online updates.
- Although the job is based in Chicago, candidate must have own transportation and be willing to recruit and coordinate volunteers and plan regular member events throughout Illinois.
- Recruit and develop leadership of grassroots members, especially youth and people living in low-income communities and communities of color.
- Assist with fundraising for our organizing campaigns in coordination with the Development Associate and Executive Director
- Coordinate research and policy reports, as necessary
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree or J.D. preferred. We will, however, consider non-degreed candidates with exceptional organizing experience.
- Experience as a community organizer working in low-income and communities of color.
- Background in more than one organizing approach or model helpful (e.g. IAF, labor, popular education, etc.)
- Commitment to political reform and social and economic justice
- Bilingual preferred (especially Spanish)
- Strong empathy, ability, comfortableness, and desire to work in diverse settings.
- Ability to multi-task and to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Willingness to work flexible hours—including occasional weeknights and weekends
- Commitment to working as part of a team
- Able to take initiative and a self-starter
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and current social media platforms required. WordPress (or similar website management program) mastery is a plus.
Compensation
Salary for this position is competitive and will be commensurate with prior experience. In addition, a comprehensive benefits package is included.
How to apply
Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, and three references to Illinois@commoncause.org. Position will stay open until filled.
Common Cause Illinois is an equal opportunity employer.