grassroots advocacy coordinator

Title: Grassroots Advocacy Coordinator

Type: Full-time (hybrid)

Report: Director of Advocacy and Public Policy

Location: Washington, DC

Travel: Less than 10%

About the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS):

The National Down Syndrome Society's (NDSS) mission is to create a world where individuals with Down syndrome thrive. Founded in 1979, NDSS empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions. The organization's work is carried out through three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy, Research, and Community Engagement.

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Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Advocacy and Public Policy, the Grassroots Advocacy Coordinator will lead the management and development of the NDSS DS-Ambassador grassroots advocacy program, including recruitment and onboarding of new members, execution of the strategic direction of the program, development of materials and training, and supporting program members. The Grassroots Advocacy Coordinator will also be responsible for the management of the NDSS advocacy data platform, supporting the development of policy communications, and supporting the planning and execution of the annual legislative advocacy day.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

To perform in this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs:

• Drives recruitment and training processes to ensure long-term success of the grassroots program
• Develops the needed mechanisms to ensure NDSS' grassroots program is successful in its advocacy goals, such as toolkits and trainings
• Directly engages grassroots and grass-tops advocates across the country to advance NDSS' advocacy agenda, including in direct communication with government officials and other stakeholders
• Leverage NDSS' grassroots network and ambassador program to support cross-organizational initiatives, including policy priorities, public awareness campaigns, and community engagement opportunities
• Advises the policy and advocacy team on strategies to improve and expand the reach and effectiveness of NDSS' grassroots network
• Ensures superb data management of all NDSS advocate data in the advocacy platform and organization CRM
• Develops positive relations with advocates with Down syndrome, Down syndrome affiliates, donors, and volunteers
• Leads the development of the department's digital communications through drafting the monthly newsletter, action alerts, and social content
• Assists in the development of letters of support and media content
• Supports the coordination and logistics for the organization's annual fly-in, held in Washington, DC
• Other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

• Commensurate experience or a bachelor's degree required
• 1-3 years of "can-do" work experience in a related field
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Experienced in working with nonprofits, grassroots organizations, and/or volunteers
• Proven ability to interact effectively and communicate well
• Energetic with the ability to multitask
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, strong willingness to initiate deadlines and time frames for assignments, and to follow up on all delegated activities
• Excellent writing skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience with grassroots advocacy tools a plus, but not required.

NDSS Benefits

NDSS currently offers a fully competitive employee benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, LTD, STD, and Group Life insurance, 403(b) retirement plan with a safe-harbor match, flexible time off, and paid holidays.

NDSS is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage individuals of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At NDSS, we're committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences and know that a diverse team is a strength that drives our success.