Senior Field Organizer

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

Job Description:

This position is responsible for base building and relationship building among people with lived experience of homelessness and organizations who serve people experiencing homelessness. This position primarily focuses on community outreach to sheltered populations. This position supports organizational campaigns and focuses on strong leadership development, as well as mobilization and will also work to advance racial equity.

About CCH:

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a 43-year-old systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness–lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services, and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders who have experienced homelessness to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values – collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality. We recognize that homelessness is a problem that stems from systemic racism and that biases and prejudices are embedded in the fabric of society, and thus, also permeate organizations like ours. CCH is committed to advancing racial equity in the workplace, through the work of our racial equity committee, and through the campaigns and initiatives we choose.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Identify and develop leadership among people with lived experience of homelessness.
  • Guide and develop leaders to gain the skills and knowledge to lead and win campaigns.
  • Develop and maintain a core group of grassroots leaders who are sheltered.
  • Plan, conduct, and execute direct actions.
  • Work as a team member and do work in support of general CCH activities, as requested.
  • Assist with training base members in organizing principles and tactics.
  • Attending all staff and program meetings, as required.
  • Support the growth and training of entry-level organizers.
  • Works in collaboration with all CCH departments—CCH believes strongly in interdepartmental collaboration and expects all staff to work in close partnership with the other departments at the organization.

Qualifications/Skills (This is a mid-level position):

  • Build and maintain a regular schedule of outreach to shelters.
  • Identify and develop leadership among people with lived experience of homelessness.
  • Guide and develop leaders to gain the skills and knowledge to lead and win campaigns.
  • Develop and maintain a core group of grassroots leaders who are sheltered.
  • Plan, conduct, and execute direct actions.
  • Work as a team member and do work in support of general CCH activities, as requested.
  • Assist with training base members in organizing principles and tactics.
  • Attending all staff and program meetings, as required.
  • Support the growth and training of entry-level organizers.
  • Works in collaboration with all CCH departments—CCH believes strongly in interdepartmental collaboration and expects all staff to work in close partnership with the other departments at the organization.
  • Experience working political campaigns and/or in a 501(c)4 structure preferred.

Salary range: $66,528-$69,528

Salary above the base salary is available if the candidate meets one or more of the following criteria – demonstrated second language proficiency ($1,000), lived experience of homelessness ($1,000), and certification in racial equity work ($1,000).

Excellent benefits, including health, four weeks of paid vacation, and a sabbatical program.

All employees should be up to date on vaccination series as indicated by the CDC. The currently approved vaccines under this policy are Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. No vaccine shall be designated unless and until it is fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), or approved by the FDA for emergency use authorization. Fully vaccinated means at least two weeks after the final shot in the required timing and dosage (one shot for Johnson & Johnson, two shots for Moderna with 28 days between shots, and two shots for Pfizer with 21 days between shots).

Please send a resume and cover letter to: organizerpositions@chicagohomeless.org with the subject line
“Senior Organizer Position.”

Prospective employees will be expected to comply with this policy within two months of accepting their offer of employment.

The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring.

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or any other legally protected status.

More job opportunities beyond “Senior Field Organizer” can be found on our “Jobs & Internships” website page.

Associate Director of Organizing, Strategic Campaigns

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

About CCH:

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a 43-year-old systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness–lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders within the homeless population to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values: collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality.

Job Purpose:

The Associate Director of Organizing, Strategic Campaigns is responsible for CCH’s city-level strategic organizing campaigns. This position will support and co-develop Chicago organizing staff and help craft overall strategy, as well as lead a planning process with our grassroot base and allied organizations that advance our housing public policy goals. This position also will work to advance racial equity.
Initially, this work will focus on an initiative that brings together key stakeholders to change policies and laws to create a dedicated stream of revenue for affordable housing and services for those experiencing homelessness. The Associate Director will also play a leadership role in establishing and operating a new 501(c)4 companion organization. This position provides leadership on CCH’s organizing team and works in close collaboration with CCH’s policy and legal departments.

Duties Include:

  • Work in close collaboration with the Director of Organizing and the policy department on the development and execution of CCH’s organizing and advocacy campaigns.
  • Provide strategic leadership on 501(c)4 activities, including, but not limited to:
    • Helping lead c4 eligible work,
    • Providing strategic guidance on 501(c)4 allowable activities,
    • Training staff and grassroots leadership on 501(c)4 work,
    • And, in conjunction with CCH’s administrative department, ensuring compliance with relevant rules and regulations.
  • Staff and provide leadership in campaign coalitions.
  • Plan and execute campaign strategy in partnership with other key staff and coalition partners.
  • Promote and facilitate relationships with key current and potential partners.
  • Plan and execute direct actions and other tactics, including the coordination of neighborhood-level
    fieldwork such as canvassing and door knocking.
  • Supervise and mentor staff organizers and grassroots leaders to deepen advocacy skills and political analysis.
  • Help to design and conduct workshops and presentations that prepare base members to lead
    elements of our campaigns.
  • Co-lead the development of a core group of leaders’ engagement in campaign strategy and decision making.
  • Assist with CCH’s community organizing training, which also helps build skills and knowledge of our
    base members and stakeholders.

Qualifications/Skills:
We’re seeking candidates who excel in relationship-building and collaboration, who are results-oriented, strong strategic thinkers, who want to build power, and who have strong project management skills.

  • 5 or more years prior experience leading grassroots organizing or political campaigns
  • Ability to formulate and deliver on short-term and long-term campaign-building goals.
  • Coalition experience and skills in navigating organizational relationships.
  • Experience leading work within a 501(c)4 environment and a strong understanding of related
    rules and regulations.
  • Familiarity with a diverse range of organizing tactics and strategies.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead direct actions and events.
  • Experience supervising organizers.
  • Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to establish and
    cultivate respectful relationships with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Ability to create and facilitate trainings and workshops.
  • Demonstrated ability to stay on task and meet deadlines and goals.
  • Detail oriented and the ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Commitment to racial, economic, gender and social justice.
  • Appreciation for work-life balance.
  • Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and VAN.
  • Spanish language skills are a plus.

Salary range: $76,125 -$79,125

Salary above the base salary is available if the candidate meets one or more of the following criteria – demonstrated second language proficiency ($1,000), lived experience of homelessness ($1,000), certification in racial equity work ($1,000).

Excellent benefits, including health, four weeks of paid vacation, and a sabbatical program.

Please send a resume and cover letter to: organizerpositions@chicagohomeless.org with the subject line “Associate Director of Organizing, Strategic Campaigns”
Deadline to apply is November 20th.

As of July 1, 2022, all employees should be up to date on vaccination series as indicated by the CDC. The currently approved vaccines under this policy are Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and boosters. No vaccine shall be designated unless and until itis fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or approved by the FDA for emergency use authorization. Employees are in compliance with the vaccine mandate two weeks after receiving the last vaccination required to be up-to-date in the series. Timing and dosage (one shot for Johnson & Johnson, two shots for Moderna with 28 days between shots, two shots for Pfizer with 21 days between shots and boosters as they become eligible).

Prospective employees will be expected to comply with this policy within two months of accepting their offer of employment.

The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring.

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or any other legally protected status.

More job opportunities beyond “Associate Director of Organizing, Strategic Campaigns” can be found on our “Jobs & Internships” website page.

Digital Communications Intern

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

2023 – 2024 

Job Description

The Digital Communications intern will work closely with the Communications Director to further the mission of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless (CCH) through equitable and inclusive use of digital media in many of its formats. From creating and writing content to connecting with BIPOC allies and influencers to grow the digital reach for CCH’s work. The role Is key to Informing audiences of who and what CCH is. 


About CCH

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a 43-year-old systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness – lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders within the homeless population to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values – collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality. We recognize that homelessness is a problem that steps from systemic racism and that biases and prejudices are embedded in the fabric of society, and thus also permeate organizations like ours. CCH is committed to advancing racial equity in the workplace, through the work of our racial equity committee, and through the campaigns and initiatives we choose. 


Job Responsibilities

  • Content Creation 
    • Assist in compiling and drafting content including graphics and videos for CCH’s monthly enewsletter and social media platforms . 
    •  Ensures brand consistency across email and social platforms. 
  • Writing  
    • Marketing and Copywriting for social and email platforms. 
  •  Events + Actions  
    • Assist at in-person events with live streaming. 
    • Contribute to coverage of events through asset collection. 
    • Support in creating post event content. 
  • Media List Building 
    • Compile and organize CCH’s media list within social platforms for direct messaging for real-time-use.  
    • Research and find BIPOC-focused influencers and/or allies who focus on community, issue-driven list of community, locally focused allies with influence.  

Qualifications/Skills

  • Entry-level position, designed for a candidate who is dedicated and passionate about social and email platforms where storytelling is inclusive and equitable. 
  • Should be deadline driven and is interested in the dynamics of digital communications environment. 
  • Demonstrated copywriting and oral communication skills.  
  • Demonstrated commitment to social justice and racial equity. 
  • Demonstrated interest in non-profit digital growth. 
  • A self-starter, working well in a collaborative setting. 
  • Experience with housing and homelessness issues preferred.  
  • Preferred: Proficiency in MS Office, WordPress, Social Platform Engagement and Reach and Email platforms for organizations. 

Compensation

Intern will receive a $1,250 stipend at the completion of each semester CCH works in hybrid setting; in-office and on-site hours along with remote (local) work.  

Internship Hours

16-20 hours/week, Fall 2023-Spring 2024 

Hybrid hours Include: In-Office availability on Mondays (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and In-person events as needed. Remote location is in the Chicagoland area.  

How to Apply

Please send your resume, cover letter (directed to Vanessa Alvarez) and 2-3 samples of social media and 2 enewsletters or something similar you created or worked on via coordination comscareers@chicagohomeless.org with the subject line: 2023-24 Digital Communications Internship Application.  Portfolio and URLS are accepted.  Deadline to apply is September 20, 2023.  

As of July 1, 2022, all employees should be up to date on vaccination series as indicated by the CDC.  The currently approved vaccines under this policy are Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and boosters. No vaccine shall be designated unless and until it is fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or approved by the FDA for emergency use authorization.   Employees are in compliance with the vaccine mandate two weeks after receiving the last vaccination required to be up-to-date in the series.   Timing and dosage (one shot for Johnson & Johnson, two shots for Moderna with 28 days between shots, two shots for Pfizer with 21 days between shots and boosters as they become eligible).  
 
Prospective employees will be expected to comply with this policy within two months of accepting their offer of employment.   

The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring.   

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or any other legally protected status.  

Legal Fellowship

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

Job Description: The Law Project of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless seeks a candidate to sponsor for an Equal Justice Works fellowship beginning in the fall of 2024 to expand legal services for those experiencing street homelessness and to provide legal services in housing law while working to advance racial equity.  

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a 43-year-old systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness – lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders within the homeless population to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values – collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality. We recognize that homelessness is a problem that stems from systemic racism and that biases and prejudices are embedded in the fabric of society, and thus, also permeate organizations like ours. CCH is committed to advancing racial equity in the workplace, through the work of our racial equity committee, and through the campaigns and initiatives we choose.  

The Law Project is a program of CCH that provides free legal services to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The Law Project’s work includes educational rights, public benefits, criminal records relief, family law, access to identification documents and other areas of legal need. 

A successful fellowship candidate will: 

  •  Develop a project that will address the unmet legal needs of individuals and families experiencing homeless, including:  
  • Advocating for people experiencing street homelessness to be connected to permanent housing opportunities 
  • Monitor street cleanings and other actions in locations where people are living on the street to ensure that people’s property and rights are protected 
  • Providing other legal services to those experiencing street homelessness, including access to identification documents and public benefits, including social security disability benefits; and 
  • Housing advocacy, including representing individuals at-risk of homelessness in eviction proceedings and other landlord-tenant issues to promote housing stability. 
  • Other advocacy activities, including know-your-rights presentations. 
  • Ensure the project recognizes and articulates the racial disparities and overrepresentation of Black and Brown people in the population of those experiencing homelessness and the eviction systems and the urgency and importance of addressing those inequities.  
  • Conduct regular legal clinics and community outreach at locations where people experience street homelessness, shelters, drop-in centers and other community venues to connect with clients and to further the goals of the project.  
  • Develop and implement strategies to address systemic issues and barriers related to the project.  
  • Create public education and advocacy materials related to the project, including materials inclusive of non-English speakers and for individuals who use different mediums to obtain information.  
  • Participate in local and state-level coalitions and campaigns to promote policies and laws to reduce barriers to accessing housing and services for individuals experiencing homelessness, including street homelessness. 
  • Develop and conduct trainings for community members, attorneys and other professionals.   
  • Work to implement racial equity and trauma-informed care within their practice. 
  • Work in collaboration with all CCH departments—CCH believes strongly in interdepartmental collaboration and expects all staff to work in close partnership with the other departments at the organization. 

Qualifications: 

Required: 

  • J.D. or expected to receive a J.D. by the spring of 2024 with plans to take the Illinois Bar Exam in the summer of 2024 
  • Demonstrated commitment to social justice, racial equity and public interest law  
  • Experience working with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds  
  • Experience or a commitment to working in communities impacted by poverty and a desire to spend a significant amount of time out in the community providing legal services and engaging in outreach 
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and work to advance racial equity 
  • Self-direction and self-motivation and the ability to work independently 
  • Strong research and writing skills 

To Apply: Please send a resume and cover letter detailing your proposed project, including why the issue is important to you and how the proposed project will a) address an unmet legal need among people experiencing homelessness, b) advance racial equity, c) center the voices of people experiencing homelessness, and d) enhance and complement CCH’s current work.  Please send all fellowship application materials to Patricia Nix-Hodes at lawproject@chicagohomeless.org. Please put “Fellowship” in the subject line.  

Application deadline is Friday, August 25, 2023.  

All employees should be up to date on vaccination series as indicated by the CDC. The currently approved vaccines under this policy are: Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. No vaccine shall be designated unless and until it is fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or approved by the FDA for emergency use authorization.   Fully vaccinated means at least two weeks after the final shot in the required timing and dosage (one shot for Johnson & Johnson, two shots for Moderna with 28 days between shots, and two shots for Pfizer with 21 days between shots). 

 
Prospective employees will be expected to comply with this policy within two months of accepting their offer of employment. 
 

The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring. 

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, any other legally protected status. 

StreetLight Chicago: Rebuild Committee

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

Our Goal 

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is redeveloping its StreetLight Chicago App and Website and launching programming to support these resources in the Chicago community. The App and Website are focused on providing resources primarily to young people 14-24, with a focus on accessing housing, food, and other social services. To ensure the redevelopment meets the needs of its users we are putting together a committee of Service Providers and Youth to provide their expertise and be decision makers in the rebuild.  

Our Scope 

The committee will meet at 3 key points in the redevelopment process: Discovery, App Design, and Web Design, and will be required to review materials and provide feedback for the final development. Your voices will help shape the final features and design of StreetLight Chicago. For each phase there will be two meetings for you to attend, the first will present the materials, and the second will be for feedback.  

The Commitment  

Participating in the StreetLight Chicago Redevelopment Committee you must be able to attend a total of 6 meetings:  

Discovery- June (estimated) 

  1. Presenting materials collected through discovery calls: Features list, priorities for the app, and an outline of functionality.  
  1. Determining the specific goals of StreetLight, and forming ideas on its role accomplishing those goals.  
  1. Providing feedback on the materials presented.  

Design of App – August (estimated) 

  1. Presenting design and flow of app from perspective of users.  
  1. Providing feedback on the materials presented.  
  1. Review app testing plan. (Audience for app test will include committee and select participants in the CCH network)  

Design of Website – September (estimated) 

  1. Presenting design and flow of website from the perspective of users.  
  1. Providing feedback on the materials presented.  
  1. Review app testing results and note any additional changes needed.  

All presentation meetings will be recorded (pending group agreement) and to participate in the committee you should be prepared to attend all 6 calls, if unable to attend a call please set aside time review a recorded session or provide written feedback. In total you will be asked to spend 6 hours over 3 months participating in the committee.  

For Youth 

We invite youth to apply to join the committee and help shape the future of StreetLight Chicago! There will be up to 6 spots on the committee for young people with lived experience; we hope to have a range of lived experiences and ages. To participate you must meet the following:  

  • Are between 14-24 years old on July 1st, 2023
    • We are interested in having the committee represent a variety of age groups and experiences. 
  • Are currently or have in the past experienced housing instability 
    • This can mean sleeping on a friend’s couch, in a car, at an emergency shelter, on the street, or other experiences.
  • Can meet either:  
    • In person at the CCH Office in the Loop
    • Online on Zoom 
  • NOTE: As a committee member you will receive a phone stipend and CTA vouchers whenever asked to meet in person.  

The application closed on June 15th, and if there are more than 6 applicants who meet the above requirements, we will pull names by lottery to select committee members with priority given to have committee members from across age groups. Those selected should expect the following compensation:  

  • $500 stipend  
  • $30 phone bill stipend

At this time the application is now closed.

Re-Entry Organizer  

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

Job Description: To organize and develop a network of homeless and formerly homeless individuals who are survivors of the sex trade and/or the formerly incarcerated and will work to advance racial equity. 

About CCH: 

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a 42 -year-old systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness – lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders who have experienced homelessness to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values – collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality. We recognize that homelessness is a problem that stems from systemic racism and that biases and prejudices are embedded in the fabric of society, and thus, also permeate organizations like ours. CCH is committed to advancing racial equity in the workplace, through the work of our racial equity committee, and through the campaigns and initiatives we choose. 

Job Responsibilities:  

  • Meet with shelter residents and other homeless people on a regular basis 
  • Develop and maintain relationships with shelter residents 
  • Develop leadership among homeless leaders, using motivational skills and a positive attitude 
  • Promote and facilitate relationships with service providers, primarily members of CCH and Reentry Committee 
  • Develop written materials and provide supporting information for project-specific proposals relating to the project 
  • Assist with training base members in organizing principles and tactics 
  • Work as a team member and do work in support of general CCH activities, as requested 
  • Attending all staff and program meetings, as required 
  • Works in collaboration with all CCH departments—CCH believes strongly in interdepartmental collaboration and expects all staff to work in close partnership with the other departments at the organization 

Qualifications/Skills:  

  • This is an entry level position, best suited for those familiar with a diverse range of organizing tactics and strategies 
  •  Experience in strategic action and building grassroots power through civic engagement.      
  • Experience building and developing grassroots leadership participation.    
  • Effective communication, including written and oral presentations. 
  • Demonstrated excellence in relationship-building skills. 
  • Demonstrated strong project management skills. 
  • Experience working with people from a wide range of backgrounds  
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment 

Salary : $ 47,000 with a highly competitive benefits package  

All employees should be up to date on vaccination series as indicted by the CDC.  The currently approved vaccines under this policy are: Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. No vaccine shall be designated unless and until it is fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), or approved by the FDA for emergency use authorization.   Fully vaccinated means at least two weeks after the final shot in the required timing and dosage (one shot for Johnson & Johnson, two shots for Moderna with 28 days between shots, and two shots for Pfizer with 21 days between shots). 

 
Prospective employees will be expected to comply with this policy within two months of accepting their offer of employment. 
 

 
Please send resume and cover letter to:  organizerpositions@chicagohomeless.org 

The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring.  

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or any other legally protected status.  

Policy Intern

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

Applications are being accepted March 1-March 30, 2022 for fall academic year internships running from Aug/Sept 2022 through May/June 2023.

Position can be all remote, but preference will be given to candidates who can attend occasional in-person meetings and events.

Description

The policy intern conducts research in areas of housing and homelessness and collaborates with CCH staff to develop policy campaigns. Areas of advocacy include housing, employment, criminal justice, and youth homelessness.

About CCH

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness – lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services, and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders who have experienced homelessness to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values – collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality. We recognize that homelessness is a problem that stems from systemic racism and that biases and prejudices are embedded in the fabric of society, and thus, also permeate organizations like ours. CCH is committed to advancing racial equity in the workplace, through the work of our racial equity committee, and through the campaigns and initiatives we choose.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist in research, tracking, analysis, and communication of relevant state and local policy issues, legislation, and regulations;
  • Produce written materials necessary to develop and implement policy initiatives;
  • Support CCH staff in state and local policy development, communications, and administrative duties, as assigned;
  • Perform survey research and data analysis around homelessness in Chicago and Illinois;
  • Participate in task force meetings and other organized efforts with coalition groups working toward ending homelessness;
  • Support CCH staff in coordinating meetings with elected officials and candidates
  • Support coalition building efforts
  • Collaborate with all CCH departments—CCH believes strongly in interdepartmental collaboration and expects all staff to work in close partnership with the other departments at the organization.

Qualifications/Skills

  • Entry level position
  • Demonstrated oral communication skills
  • Demonstrated commitment to social justice and racial equity
  • Demonstrated ability to organize and manage projects
  • Demonstrated interest in policy/advocacy work to address poverty/homelessness

To Apply

Please send a cover letter and resume to policyintern@chicagohomeless.org

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring.

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.

Staff Attorney

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

Job Description

The Law Project of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is seeking a mid-level Staff Attorney to join our Law Project team to advocate for people experiencing homelessness in Illinois through both direct representation and policy advocacy in the areas of civil rights and public benefits and to work to advance racial equity. 

Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

About CCH  

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a 42-year-old systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness – lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders who have experienced homelessness to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values – collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality. We recognize that homelessness is a problem that stems from systemic racism and that biases and prejudices are embedded in the fabric of society, and thus, also permeate organizations like ours. CCH is committed to advancing racial equity in the workplace, through the work of our racial equity committee, and through the campaigns and initiatives we choose. 

Job Responsibilities  

  • Provide civil legal services to people experiencing homelessness. Areas of focus include civil rights and public benefits, including Social Security hearings.  Other areas of law may include access to identification documents, housing and criminal law. 
  • Conduct regular legal clinics and community outreach to unsheltered communities and through the Law Project’s Youth Futures Mobile Legal Clinic at various shelters and drop-in centers, schools, health centers and other community locations serving youth ages 14-24.  
  • Participate in the Law Project’s impact litigation to address systemic issues and barriers to people experiencing homelessness, including civil rights cases. 
  • Participate in local and state-level coalitions and campaigns to promote policies and laws to protect the rights of unsheltered people experiencing homelessness and to reduce barriers to accessing health care and public benefits for homeless youth and adults.  
  • Assist Law Project staff on other projects as needed.   
  • Develop and conduct trainings for attorneys and other professionals on civil rights, public benefits, health care and other legal rights of people experiencing homelessness. 
  • Collaborate with the Law Project’s Public Benefits Specialist in public benefits cases. 
  • Supervision of law student and social work student interns, possible future supervision opportunities 
  • Work in collaboration with all CCH departments—CCH believes strongly in interdepartmental collaboration and expects all staff to work in close partnership with the other departments at the organization. 

Qualifications/Skills  

Required:  

  • J.D. degree and currently licensed or eligible to waive in to practice law in Illinois   
  • Mid-level legal experience in a legal aid organization or other setting providing direct representation 
  • Experience and an interest in civil rights, public benefits and health law and policy, and/or criminal law.  In addition to professional experience in these areas, experience can include personal experience with homelessness, poverty and other issues affecting our clients.  
  •  Experience working with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds   
  •  Experience working in communities impacted by poverty and a desire to spend a significant amount of time out in the community providing legal services and engaging in outreach  
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and work to advance racial equity  
  • Self-direction and self-motivation and the ability to work independently  
  • Demonstrated strong research and writing skills 

Preferred: 

  • Experience representing individuals in administrative hearings or in litigation  
  • Experience and interest in criminal law 
  • Experience working with young people ages 14 to 24-years-old   
  • Valid driver’s license 

Salary range

$60,000 to 72,000 based on experience, highly competitive benefits package, including health insurance (90% of premium paid by organization), four weeks of paid vacation, sabbatical program and student loan repayment assistance program and more. 

To Apply

Please send resume, cover letter, references and writing sample to Patricia Nix-Hodes at lawproject@chicagohomeless.org. 

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring.  

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.  

Law Project Paralegal Intern

Posted on by Vanessa Álvarez

Job Description

The Law Project of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is seeking a paralegal Intern to support the Law Project in their work in advocating for people experiencing homelessness in Chicago and throughout Illinois. In this position, you will conduct intakes of potential clients, and provide support to attorneys with their casework. The types of cases Law Project attorneys handle include public benefits cases, educational rights cases, expungement/sealing cases, civil rights cases, and other civil legal matters. Paralegal interns are expected to be able to work independently and collaboratively with Law Project staff. This position is remote with the option for some-in office work and in person outreach and distribution of materials.

Access to a computer and internet is helpful but not required. Computer and internet access can be provided if needed. All paralegal interns are also expected to work to advance racial equity.

About CCH

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a 42-year old systemic advocacy organization. CCH develops campaigns and initiatives to address the causes of homelessness – lack of affordable housing, lack of access to health care and services and lack of jobs paying a living wage. We place much emphasis on organizing and developing leaders who have experienced homelessness to become spokespersons and leaders of our various initiatives. CCH does its work in accordance with its organizational values – collaboration, integrity, strategic action, compassion, and intersectionality. We recognize that homelessness is a problem that stems from systemic racism and that biases and prejudices are embedded in the fabric of society, and thus, also permeate organizations like ours. CCH is committed to advancing racial equity in the workplace, through the work of our racial equity committee, and through the campaigns and initiatives we choose.

The Law Project is a program of CCH that provides free legal services to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The Law Project’s work includes educational rights for students who are homeless, a mobile legal clinic to provide legal services to homeless youth, including access to health care and civil rights for people living on the street.

Job Responsibilities

Clients

  • Provide assistance in conducting intakes of clients to assess clients’ legal issues.
  • Provide support to Law Project attorneys with their casework, such as assisting clients with applying for public benefits.
  • Assist in compiling/reviewing a variety of documents for various audiences, such as legislators, service providers, and school staff.

Community Outreach*

  • Distribute Law Project materials at various events.
  • Assist Law Project staff in conducting outreach, in places such as shelters, schools, and street outreach.

*In response to the COVID-19 virus, only limited outreach is being conducted for the time being.

Qualifications

  • Demonstrated desire to work with people experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
  • Ability to work in a variety of settings.
  • Demonstrated desire to work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Demonstrated experience utilizing Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Enrollment in a paralegal program preferred (however, being a student is not a requirement for this position).

To Apply

Please send a cover letter detailing how you are qualified for this position, a resume, and two references, to Arturo Hernandez at arturo@chicagohomeless.org and please put “Paralegal Intern” in the subject line. The applicant selected for this internship position will receive a stipend.

Chicago Coalition for the Homeless believes that personnel diversity is an organizational strength and recognizes and values the intersectional identities that staff members bring to our organization. We are enriched by the diverse experiences, beliefs, and ways of thinking that employees of different backgrounds bring.

People of color and people who have experienced homelessness or poverty are strongly encouraged to apply. Fair consideration is given to all qualified applicants regardless of criminal record. CCH is committed to providing equal employment consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, sex, disability, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.