Food & Water Watch and Food & Water Action vision is to create a healthy future for all people and generations to come—a world where everyone has food they can trust, clean drinking water and a livable climate. Making this happen requires involving people in the pressing issues of our time at the local, state, and federal level, building on one win after another, as we develop a larger movement that has the political power to make our democratic process work. We mobilize people to reclaim their political power, hold our elected officials accountable, and resist corporate control—ensuring we all have the essential resources we need to thrive. This is a fight we must win, because this planet is the only one we get.
Working with a broad coalition, Food & Water Watch is campaigning to stop new fossil fuel projects across New York. We are seeking an organizer based in Newburgh to focus on this long-standing campaign, with a particular focus on stopping the construction of the proposed Danskammer fracked gas power plant in Newburgh. We seek a talented and strategic organizer to help take this work to the next level. The organizer will help build an ambitious grassroots campaign urging the governor to deny the plant.
This is a full-time position starting when filled and running for at least one year. The ideal candidate will be able to work remotely from or near Newburgh; some travel required.
Essential duties and responsibilities
- Building a local local grassroots volunteer infrastructure in opposition to the project:
- Recruit new activists by canvassing and phonebanking.
- Train and develop activist leaders on the campaign.
- Work closely with team and partner organizations to develop and implement joint strategies.
- Develop volunteer roles that will advance our campaign strategy and build volunteers’ investment in the broader campaign against the construction of all new fossil fuel projects.
- Represent Food & Water Watch at public events and with local media.
- Work with and maintain close relationships with coalition partners working to stop the power plant.
- Maintain campaign data.
- Regularly report on work to supervisors and donors.
- Support Our Culture of Philanthropy: Demonstrate an understanding of the essential role of our members and supporters, and consistently serve as an ambassador for FWW/FWA and our work. Participate in or attend events and other activities as appropriate that are organized for our supporters and donors. Be cognizant of fundraising opportunities and share contacts and information that will help build and sustain FWW/FWA.
- Carry out other projects as assigned.
To perform this job successfully, the person in this position is expected to have a complete understanding of FWW’s Strategic Organizing model and an ability to develop campaign strategy. The Organizer will be expected to work closely with volunteers and allied organizations to ensure campaigns are moving forward to achieve programmatic goals.
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education/Experience: Bachelor’s Degree or combination of relevant education and experience. One year of full-time experience organizing. Clear demonstration of ability to develop effective organizing strategies.
Computer Skills: An individual should be able to work in a computerized environment and have adequate knowledge of word processing, email, internet and spreadsheet software; in particular have coursework or certification in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and proficiency with all other Microsoft Office products.
