Policy Organizer

Policy Organizer Job Description

Position: Policy Organizer

Reports to: Organizing & Policy Manager

Organizational Overview

The mission of LIVE FREE Illinois is to address violence against the black community and to create racial and economic justice in Illinois, by engaging people in public life to translate faith into action and to overcome barriers to opportunities in low-income communities, including mass incarceration, police violence, and gun violence.

Position Overview

The Policy Organizer will support the research, policy, and legislative campaign work of the organization, fostering relationships with partners, leaders, and legislators, collaborating with the organizing and policy staff to conduct research, develop leaders, and advance campaigns.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with other staff, leaders, and partner organizations in the development and implementation of policy priorities and strategy
• Communicate with policymakers, stakeholders, the public, and the media about the organization’s work
• Collaborate with Live Free Illinois’s policy and organizing staff and contractors in:
• Managing the organization’s relationships with all levels of government;
• Participation in coalition-building strategies at the state level, and maintaining key relationships with partner organizations;
• Providing reliable, timely analysis and strategic guidance on legislative activities;
• Developing and disseminating materials regarding legislative developments to staff, partners, policymakers, and the media;
• Training and developing community members and leaders as advocates on the issues and campaigns of the organization;
• Planning, coordinating, and equipping participants for regular advocacy days;
• Ensuring the involvement of grassroots leaders and partner organizations in promoting agreed-upon priorities, and helping to organize opportunities to bring grassroots partners in contact with their elected officials and other policymakers;
• Conducting research as necessary; and
• Taking other steps necessary to develop and advance Live Free’s priorities
• Research, analyze, and monitor legislation, regulations, and policy developments related to Live Free Illinois’s issue areas
• Support with development and implementation of advocacy strategies/key benchmarks to influence policy decisions at the local, state, and federal levels
• Draft and review policy briefs, reports, letters, and other advocacy materials to effectively communicate our positions and recommendations
• Provide policy expertise and guidance to internal teams, volunteers, and supporters
• Collaborate with other organizations and coalitions to amplify our impact and achieve shared policy goals
• Track and report on campaign progress, outcomes, and impact metrics
• Stay informed about emerging issues, best practices, and trends in policy advocacy and incorporate learnings into our work

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field (Master's degree preferred)
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in policy advocacy, community organizing, government relations, or a related field
• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to synthesize complex information and make strategic recommendations
• Demonstrated commitment to community organizing and ability to work constructively with grassroots partners
• Ability to analyze and articulate complex concepts or issues and communicate them to a variety of audiences
• Experience analyzing and interpreting legislative and regulatory language
• Excellent communication skills, including writing, public speaking, and interpersonal skills
• Proven track record of building relationships, mobilizing communities, and achieving tangible policy outcomes
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced hybrid environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with advocacy tools and platforms is a plus
• Commitment to the mission and values of Live Free Illinois

Live Free Illinois is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and organizational needs. Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative of those we serve.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Chicago, IL 60653: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Chicago, IL 60653