The Campaign for Southern Equality (CSE) is seeking candidates for a twelve-month, full-time LGBT Rights Organizer as part of the Tzedek Social Justice Residency Program. The position will be based in Asheville, NC. The deadline for applying is May 20, 2015.

You will join CSE’s team in running a fast-paced, nimble campaign to promote full LGBT equality across the South. This residency will immerse you in an area of our work such as the LGBT Rights Toolkit or the Hometown Organizing Project and you will have significant programmatic responsibilities. You will also have an organizational focus area such as fundraising or communications. You will be supervised by a CSE staff member. The residency will also involve significant professional development opportunities and participation in the Tzedek Social Justice Residency trainings and meetings.

One of the primary goals of this position is to increase the racial/ethnic diversify the LGBT movement. Candidates of color are strongly encouraged to apply. We are looking for a candidate who:

•        Loves working with people;
•        Works hard and delivers excellent results on deadline;
•        Thinks creatively;
•        Is committed to building a LGBT movement that reflects the rich diversity of the Southern LGBT community related to        race, class, gender identity, education, geography, and faith;
•        Has excellent verbal and written communication skills across a range of environments and media;
•        Works and travels well as a team member;
•        Has the initiative to work autonomously and the skills to collaborate effectively;
•        Understands the South, even if you’re not from here;
•        Is passionate about LGBT rights – as a LGBT person or an ally; and
•        Has a good sense of humor.

Skills and qualities listed are suggested but not comprehensive.

Work Environment: Our work environment is fast paced and involves frequent deadlines. We host weekend and evening events approximately twice every month, typically involving one night of travel. The resident will also be expected to participate in professional development opportunities throughout the year, including regular meetings with other Tzedek Social Justice Residents.

Qualifications: There is no degree requirement for this Residency and we look forward to hearing from candidates with varied backgrounds. Minimum requirements include 2 to 5 years of professional experience OR a degree in a relevant field. For example, a candidate might have significant experience working on political campaigns; a strong background in digital organizing and graphic design; a graduate degree in a relevant field (social work, ministry) or relevant experience in direct services.

Candidates must:

•         Have a valid driver’s license;
•         Be able to travel across the South;
•         Have tech competency and a readiness to acquire new tech skills (data entry; Word; Excel; Google applications;        ability to use Facebook and Twitter).

Tzedek Social Justice Residency Training Requirements:

In addition to your work at CSE, you will be part of a cohort of 2015-2016 Tzedek Social Justice Residents, which involves:

•         Participating in the meetings, trainings and projects of the larger Tzedek Social Justice Residency cohort throughout the year; and
•         Attending:
  • the national LGBTQ Creating Change Conference in January 2016 (Chicago, IL);
  • additional non-profit skills-building workshops for leadership and professional development, to be determined by Executive Director and the Resident;
  • Toastmasters Club Weekly Meetings to learn effective communication skills.

Compensation: The Resident will receive a $30,000 stipend; a $2,500 professional development fund; a monthly health care stipend; and a monthly technology stipend.

Application Process: To apply, please submit to [email protected] (with Tzedek Residency Application in the subject line):

•         A cover letter of up to 2 pages telling us who you are, what matters to you, and why you want to work for LGBT equality in the South;
•         Your CV;
•         A writing sample of up to 2 pages;
•         A work sample (from any discipline and in any medium – show us what you can do);
•         Applications must be submitted by the close of business on May 20, 2015.

Non-Discrimination Policy: CSE is committed to the principle of equality in employment and programming. CSE does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, or veteran status in its hiring practices, programs, services or activities.

More about the Tzedek Social Justice Residency: The Tzedek Social Justice Residency develops young adult leaders committed to community service, social justice, and LGBT advocacy. Guided by the Jewish values of equitable giving (Tzedakah), repairing the world (Tikkun Olam), and leadership (Hanhagah), the residency links emerging leaders with organizations to develop capacity and increase the potential of both. Residents are placed in the Asheville area at one of the following non-profits: Spirit in Action, the Center for Diversity Education, the Jewish Community Center, Campaign for Southern Equality, Warren Wilson College, and Green Opportunities. While the position duties of each placement vary, the residency joins people of different backgrounds in common cause toward equality for all people. The residency provides a unique opportunity for residents to participate together in meetings, trainings, and conferences to explore and better understand the intersectionality of class, gender, sexuality, faith traditions, and ethnicity. The program offers residents and supervisors orientation, trainings, and access to an outreach coordinator to strengthen the mentor-resident experience.

Internships

The Campaign for Southern Equality does not currently have any internship openings. However, we welcome individuals who are interested in future internships to contact us with an email inquiry and resume.