Waterloo Region Community Outreach Worker

Is social justice a passion of yours? Do you enjoy talking to people? Are you ready to make meaningful change in your community?

Then we want YOU to join the ACORN community outreach team!

What is ACORN?

ACORN Canada, the nationwide community union of low-to-moderate income people, is expanding our organizing in Waterloo Region. Our purpose is to give low-to-moderate income people the power needed to have their voices effectively heard at the highest levels in the country.

We’re most known in Waterloo Region for being the driving forces behind winning renoviction protections for tenants in Kitchener and Waterloo. That said, ACORN is a multi-issued organization. Our current campaigns include: fighting for affordable and livable housing, a stop to no-fault evictions, end financialized housing, climate justice, fair banking, better social assistance and more.

Job Description:

• Building/expanding neighbourhood groups through canvassing, having face-to-face conversations with everyday people and motivating them to take action.
• Mobilizing support for the ACORN membership’s campaign priorities by collecting petition signatures, making phone calls, turning people out to events.
• Attend and help plan local events such as rallies, chapter meetings, press conferences and more.
• Work with our Ontario Regional Director on a day to day basis to learn the basics of ACORN’s community outreach methods and techniques.

Compensation and Perks of the Job:

• Hourly: $18.50-$20 + mileage/transit and cell phone reimbursement
• This is a 2 month contract of 30 hrs/week over the summer with possibility for extension depending on office budget and willingness to fundraise.
• Lot’s of opportunity for growth. Future advancement is encouraged and expected.
• Making a meaningful impact in your community and across the country.
• Working with and learning from like-minded people dedicated to social change.

Qualifications and Skills

• No paid experience required.
• Must be willing to work afternoon/evenings between 12-9pm.
• Have strong social and people skills.
• Be self driven.
• Have the ability to work both independently but also follow direction.
• Must be able to handle multiple tasks in the same day – flexibility and resilience are keys to success.
• This position is partially funded by Canada Summer Jobs. Applicants must be between the ages of 15-30, a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident or have Refugee status.

*APPLY WITH COVER LETTER*

Please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. In your cover letter please answer the following application questions:

• Where in the region do you live?
• If you live outside of Kitchener-Waterloo do you have access to a vehicle?
• Describe your enthusiasm for knocking on doors and talking to strangers about community issues all year long.
• Why do you want to work for a social justice organization?