A national leader in the field of civic participation and community change, Everyday Democracy (based in Hartford, Connecticut) helps people of different backgrounds and views talk and work together to solve problems and create communities that work for everyone.

Using innovative, participatory approaches, Everyday Democracy works with neighborhoods, cities and towns, regions, and states. We place particular emphasis on the connection between complex public issues and structural racism. These issues include, but are not limited to: poverty and economic development; education reform; racial equity; early childhood development; police-community relations; youth and neighborhood concerns.

Everyday Democracy is an equal opportunity employer committed to practicing diversity and inclusion. We seek a Program Director to join our Community Assistance team.

Primary Responsibilities of the Program Director

• Provide training and coaching to community coalitions, to help them develop large-scale, diverse dialogue and problem solving.
• Help communities understand how racism and structural inequities affect the issues they’re facing.
• Advance the learning of Everyday Democracy by documenting field work, analyzing trends and innovations, and sharing lessons.
• Contribute to a range of written materials, including discussion guides, instructional curricula, articles and reports.
• Manage projects and participate in organizational teams, as needed.
• Represent Everyday Democracy at various venues (local and national); travel is required.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and organizational learning about building a more equitable and robust democracy.

Qualifications of the Ideal Candidate

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in political science, public administration, public policy, community-based social work or a related field. Individuals without a degree will be considered if s/he demonstrates substantial knowledge and experience in these areas.
• Experience working with diverse constituencies, using a collaborative approach.
• Knowledge and understanding of racism and structural inequities, with a commitment to continuous learning and development.
• Superior oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of public policy processes.
• Ability to analyze and document complex information.
• Experience working in community settings, such as through community service, community organizing, or public engagement.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Ability to multi-task, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Superior work ethic and public service orientation.
• Ability to work in teams.
• Experience working with young adults is a plus.
• Fluency in two or more languages is a plus.
• Knowledge of program evaluation is a plus.
• Knowledge of specific issues areas – such as poverty, education, criminal justice, immigration, the environment – is a plus.

How to Apply

Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, but no later than April 1. Applications should include a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications and your resume. Please send to: . Please note “Program Director application” in the subject line of your e-mail.

If you would like to apply by mail rather than e-mail, please send a hard copy of your letter and resume to Program Director Search, Everyday Democracy, 111 Founders Plaza, Suite 1403, East Hartford, CT 06108.

More information about Everyday Democracy may be found at everyday-democracy.org. No calls, please.

2/15/10