Organizing Assistant working alongside People with Disabilities in support of Disability Justice

Advocating for and organizing around the issues that matter the most to us is often a path full of roadblocks—but nonetheless worthwhile. The types of support we appreciate and at times require is different for everyone—some are busy with work or childcare, others require transportation, etc.

For People with Disabilities, accessibility can be and often is another roadblock in addition to others—some may appreciate assistance with typing or sending communications,. Meetings may require notetakers, someone to remind us of important tasks, etc.

As a member-led community organization, the Alliance for Community Services hopes to support our members and each other in advocating for the issues affecting us. Canvassing, membershipping, holding meetings, and engaging in direct actions is often made difficult for members of our alliance because of how inaccessible both technology and our world generally are.

Therefore, the Alliance for Community Services is seeking a part time volunteer to support the accessibility needs for our members with disabilities wanting to organize around and advocate for dignity in health and human services. The position would be UP TO 7 or less hours a week (varies depending on the schedule of meetings for that week) providing support for members of our organization. As a volunteer position, participation will not be compensated, but may open-up depending on the effectiveness of the volunteer program and availability of funds.

Since we all require different support, exact expectations will likely differ or change, but some of the types of tasks assistants are likely to be asked to support are:

• support with typing emails, meeting-minutes, notes, and other communications
• assistance managing a schedule, including writing a schedule and reminding folks of important tasks/dates.
• attend organizing meetings
• responding to phone calls

Some real world examples of the types of support you may be asked:

• having someone send individual lists so that someone who has difficulty pulling information off of lists on Google Drive could still do calls to reps in senators or their office staff.
• typing out draft messages to support people calling representatives or others.
• typing draft emails to be sent in connection with petitioning/canvassing

Assistants are encouraged to collaborate with the Alliance generally, voicing ideas and opinions if they feel inclined.

For clarity, this position does NOT entail other personal assistant tasks that might be more involved, such as cooking, cleaning, and other health/body related care.

To apply:

Please send a short letter explaining your interest in the position and a resumé to comms@allianceforcommunityservices.org