Policy & Advocacy Youth Programs Lead

at  Social Justice Learning Institute

At the Social Justice Learning Institute (SJLI), we are dedicated to improving the education, health, and well-being of youth of color by empowering them to take hold of their educational future using research as a tool for community and social change.
The Youth Programs Lead plays a crucial role in the Policy and Advocacy department of the Social Justice Learning Institute (SJLI). They work closely with the Policy & Advocacy Senior Manager to develop and implement programs, curricula, and educational initiatives focused on empowering youth and amplifying their voices on important social justice issues. The Youth Programs Lead is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with youth, community, and organizational stakeholders, ensuring their perspectives and needs are incorporated into SJLI’s policy agenda and advocacy efforts.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Proven experience in youth development, youth programming, or youth advocacy initiatives.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and build trust with diverse youth audiences.
• Strong understanding of social justice principles, youth development best practices, and issues impacting young people.
• Knowledge of social justice issues and a passion for promoting equity and youth empowerment.
• Proficiency in using technology for outreach, communication, and data management.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently when required.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.

• Proficient with technology platforms, including Microsoft Word, Excel,

  PowerPoint, Social Solutions, and other relevant software.

• Demonstrated commitment to SJLI’s goals, guidelines, and principles.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Valid CA Driver’s License and ability to obtain live scan clearance.
• Availability to work weeknights and weekends as needed.

• Ability to build relationships with a diverse range of constituents, including

  parents, students, staff, leadership, and other community stakeholders.

• Strong collaboration skills in a team environment.

• Capability to operate in a productive team atmosphere.
• Familiarity with Los Angeles County policy and advocacy landscape.
• Experience working with youth from a social justice development perspective.

QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, ethnic studies, psychology, social welfare, or a related field.
• Experience: 3 – 5 years in a similar non-profit organizing role.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with Los Angeles County policy and advocacy landscape

Strategic Program Implementation:

• Design and facilitate educational workshops, trainings, and programs on topics related to social justice, activism, policy, and civic engagement.
• Manage youth advisory councils or leadership programs, providing platforms for young people to share their experiences and perspectives.
• Develop youth-focused content, toolkits, and resources that make complex policy issues accessible and engaging.
• Organize and facilitate community events and activities to educate and engage youth on social justice policy issues.