Community Organizer

MISSION

The Southeastern Connecticut Community Land Trust (SE CT CLT) is a membership-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that holds land for the development and stewardship of permanently affordable housing, food production and green space, and facilities for community organizations.

WHAT IS A COMMUNITY LAND TRUST?

Community land trusts (CLTs) are nonprofit organizations governed by a representative board made up of an equal number of CLT lessees, members and public representatives who bring needed skills and constituencies. The heart of the work for many CLTs is the creation of homes that remain permanently affordable, providing successful homeownership opportunities for generations of lower income families. The SE CT CLT is an umbrella organization for the New London Chapter and other chapters as we expand in our region of New London County.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Southeastern Connecticut Community Land Trust is seeking a Community Organizer to work with the CLT with a primary focus on the New London Chapter. Under the supervision of the Executive Director and, in collaboration with the New London Chapter, the Community Organizer will promote and advance the mission and vision of the SE CT CLT. Organizing includes holding meetings, establishing a strong media presence, and moving people along a path towards home ownership. The Community Organizer will be directed and supported by the Executive Director. This is a part-time position.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES

The SE CT CLT has an active chapter in New London and projects in a number of other towns in our region. The Community Organizer will support the SE CT CLT with a specific focus on New London. They will promote the values and mission of the Community Land Trust, engage residents in the work of the New London Chapter and support members on their pathway towards permanently affordable homeownership.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Membership Support: Facilitate membership orientations and support members along the homeownership journey. Identify and connect with 7-12 families interested in homeownership, accompanying 3-5 families along the process each year.
• Chapter Sustainability: Facilitate chapter meetings, empower members, and guide chapter committees and volunteers in achieving their goals. Support the sustainability and growth of the New London Chapter.
• Partnership Development: In consultation and coordination with the ED and the NL Chapter, Organizer will build and maintain partnerships with local organizations to inform their constituencies of the opportunities for homeownership and the other community land trust projects.
• Community Outreach: Organize and coordinate grassroots outreach efforts to educate the community on the SE CT CLT’s work and resources. Hold 8-10 neighborhood-based meetings, trainings, and informal gatherings annually, engaging at least 200 individuals.
• Documentation Management: Maintain an organized, updated repository of procedural documents, accurate records of community engagement activities, and database to track successes and challenges.
• Media and Communications: Establish a strong social media presence and regularly distribute the SE CT CLT newsletter to keep the community informed and engaged.
• Continuous Improvement: Gather feedback from team members and stakeholders to assess the effectiveness of outreach strategies and materials. Recommend and implement improvements based on feedback and evolving organizational needs.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Commitment to Mission: A strong dedication to the mission and values of the SE CT CLT.
• Community Engagement: willingness to develop strong ties to the New London community and the ability to work respectfully across diverse communities and cultures.
• Collaboration and Independence: Ability to work both collaboratively and independently, demonstrating detail orientation, accountability, and persistence.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in both English and Spanish is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of CLTs: Willingness to learn about Community Land Trusts and their role in promoting permanent affordability.

ACCOUNTABILITY

The Community Organizer will report to the Executive Director of the SE CT CLT. Their work plan overview will be created collaboratively with the New London Chapter, ED and influenced by the strategic plan. The SE CT CLT board employs the staff person, oversees wage management and benefit allocation. The Community Organizer supports the work of the New London Chapter and Volunteers.

PAY AND BENEFITS

• Salary: $25/hr for 20 hours per week (part-time).
• Benefits:
  • $2,500 in benefits for individual needs: healthcare, childcare, retirement or tuition reimbursement.
  • Paid Time Off: 3 weeks total- 2 weeks of flexible vacation time and one week during December holiday (~12/24-1/02).
  • Sick Time Accrued: 1 hour for every 40 hours worked.
• Schedule: Flexible hours with some weekend and evening availability required.
• Background check required upon hiring.

TO APPLY

Email a resume and cover letter to mirnam@sectclt.org with “Community Organizer”in the subject line. Applications are due by Friday, October 11, 2024. The position will be posted until filled.