A conversation about workers, communities and social justice

Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) Seeks Community Organizer/Outreach Coordinator (Bilingual) (NYC)

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The Project

Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) is leading a groundbreaking digital inclusion initiative at five public housing developments across New York City. In partnership with the City of New York and the New York City Department for the Aging, OATS seeks to radically transform the lives of low-income seniors who live in public housing. OATS will talk to residents aged 60 and over to learn about their interests, provide access to technology and teach them how to use it to better their lives and make positive change in their community. 

The Position

This full-time, temporary position is a unique opportunity for a bilingual (Spanish-speaking) professional that is dynamic, results-oriented and passionate about working with older adults. The Community Organizer/Outreach Coordinator will conduct outreach, training, education and leadership development among older adults who live in public housing across New York City.

Working with the Project Leader and other key OATS staff, the Community Organizer/Outreach Coordinator will contribute in the following ways to make a difference in the lives of older adults:

Community Organizing

  • Develop a comprehensive plan to gain a solid understanding of the issues, concerns, interests and preferences of the older members of the community.
  • Develop and execute a strategy to build a vibrant base of older tech users who are actively engaged in ongoing program work and ad-hoc campaigns. Activities may include, phone banking, door knocking, focus groups, events, and other organizing tactics.
  • Recruit and manage volunteers.
  • Inspire and teach seniors how to advocate for the issues they care about most, including technology-related concerns.
  • Develop and deliver new lectures/classes to train older adults to engage in advocacy.
  • Maintain a database of older adults who can be called on for advocacy and other efforts.

Outreach/Program Support

  • Spearhead ongoing community outreach to raise awareness of the digital empowerment initiative, foster interest among potential participants, and enroll seniors into the program.
  • Build community partnerships through in-person meetings and attendance at community events.
  • Document program successes.
  • Prepare and deliver written reports as required.

The Candidate

In addition to a passion for improving the lives of older adults and a deep understanding of community organizing, the ideal candidate will have the following qualifications/characteristics:

  • A bachelor’s degree in a related field.
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish.
  • Experience with grassroots/field campaigns and social justice issues.
  • Demonstrated skills in community education and organizing.
  • A dynamic personality and excellent presentation, interpersonal and communications skills.
  • An affinity for technology and the ability to learn new technologies quickly.
  • Sound ability to work with diverse communities in an empathetic, comfortable and non-judgmental manner.
  • Ability to work as part of a team, yet take initiative and work independently.
  • Creative, resourceful and strong problem-solving ability.
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented and meticulous about quality, accuracy, and timeliness.
  • Flexible schedule with the ability to work on the weekend, if needed.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google apps.
  • Ability to travel to all five boroughs.

Start Date

  • Immediately

Duration

  • Through June 30, 2018, with the potential for renewal.

To Apply

  • Please send a resume and cover letter in .pdf format to jobs@oats.org. Thank you! 

The Organization
Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) is an award-winning New York City-based nonprofit with a mission to “harness the power of technology to change the way we age.” Founded in 2004, OATS celebrates “aging with attitude” and is an innovative national leader in improving the lives of older adults by providing free access to mainstream digital technologies, free intensive and high-quality technology training, and the opportunity to join a thriving community of tech-enabled seniors who are improving their health, making social connections, strengthening their finances, engaging on civic issues, and embarking on journeys of creative expression and lifelong learning.  OATS manages 23 community-based technology centers in neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs of New York, including the country’s first full-service technology-themed community center for people aged 60 and older, and publishes SeniorPlanet.org, a popular website focused on aging well with technology.

OATS is committed to maintaining a diverse environment and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.