Policy Analyst (Volunteer)

Policy Analyst (Volunteer)

Organization: Mentor A Promise (MAP)

Division: Policy, Advocacy & Research

Location: Remote and/or New York City

Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

About Mentor A Promise

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability in New York City. Through mentorship, academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, literacy development, creative expression, and housing initiatives, MAP creates safe, consistent, and empowering spaces where young people can thrive.

Our Policy, Advocacy & Research Division strengthens the bridge between on-the-ground experience and systemic change. We work to inform public policy, advance housing justice, and amplify the voices of students and families navigating instability. The team translates data, research, and community insights into policy recommendations that influence decision-makers across New York City and beyond.

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated Policy Analyst to support MAP’s policy and advocacy agenda focused on youth, education, housing, and equity. The Policy Analyst will conduct research, analyze legislation, track local and state policy developments, and prepare briefs that inform MAP’s strategic initiatives and public positions. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of research, writing, and social impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and analyze local, state, and federal policies impacting students experiencing housing instability.
• Draft policy briefs, position papers, and reports to support MAP’s advocacy priorities.
• Track legislative and budgetary developments relevant to education, housing, and child welfare.
• Collaborate with MAP leadership to translate research into actionable recommendations.
• Support coalition building and stakeholder engagement through data summaries and policy updates.
• Present findings to internal teams and community partners in clear, accessible formats.
• Check and respond to emails daily, ensuring responses within 48 hours.
• Take responsibility for performance improvement by tracking project deadlines and ensuring accuracy and clarity in all deliverables.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Urban Studies, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Strong analytical, writing, and critical-thinking skills.
• Knowledge of policy research methods and data interpretation. Experience with Excel or data visualization tools a plus.
• Familiarity with NYC and state policy landscapes in education, housing, and youth development.
• Ability to synthesize complex information into concise, impactful summaries.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to MAP’s mission of equity, mentorship, and community advocacy.

Commitment

• Volunteer analyst role requiring approximately 5–10 hours per week.
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred.
• Remote with optional in-person collaboration in New York City.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in policy research, advocacy, and legislative analysis.
• Mentorship from policy professionals and community leaders working at the intersection of education and housing justice.
• Portfolio experience developing policy briefs and recommendations.
• Professional references and career development support.
• The opportunity to influence policies that shape the future for students and families across NYC.

Application Process

Please send your resume, LinkedIn profile, and a brief statement of interest to hr@mentorapromise.org with the subject line Policy Analyst (Volunteer).

You may also apply directly here: https://forms.gle/ptgy2zBZXJB1q7GV8

Analyze with purpose — turn data into policy and policy into change that creates a future where every child has a home, a mentor, and a promise.