Director of Policy (Volunteer)

About the role

The Director of Policy will lead policy research, development, and strategic positioning for Mentor A Promise (MAP).

This role focuses on identifying key policy issues, developing evidence-based positions, and supporting MAP's long-term policy agenda.

Responsibilities

• Lead research on issues impacting youth experiencing housing instability
• Develop policy briefs, memos, and position statements
• Identify emerging policy opportunities and risks
• Support development of MAP’s policy priorities and strategic direction
• Align policy work with program insights and community needs
• Ensure policy recommendations are actionable and evidence-based
• Work with Advocacy and Government Relations to translate policy into action
• Collaborate with PromiseMeasure to integrate data and impact insights
• Engage with program teams to ground policy in lived experience
• Produce clear, structured policy documents and summaries
• Support development of materials for leadership, partners, and stakeholders
• Ensure policy positions are consistent and well-documented
• Ensure policy work aligns with nonprofit guidelines and advocacy boundaries
• Support clarity between policy development and lobbying activities
• Coordinate with leadership on sensitive or high-impact issues
• Maintain organized documentation of policy research and outputs
• Support tracking of policy initiatives and developments
• Maintain timely, professional responsiveness via Google Workspace

Requirements

• Experience in public policy, research, or related field
• Strong analytical, writing, and research skills
• Ability to synthesize complex information into clear recommendations
• Strong organizational and strategic thinking skills

Qualifications

• Required: Experience in public policy, research, or related field
• Preferred: Experience in nonprofit, government, or policy organizations
• Preferred: Familiarity with NYC or state-level policy environments
• Preferred: Experience writing policy briefs or reports
• Preferred: Background in education, housing, or social policy

Commitment

A volunteer role, approximately 5–10 hours per week, with a minimum 6-month commitment preferred. Hybrid / remote with optional NYC-based collaboration.

What You’ll Gain

• Experience leading policy development in a mission-driven organization
• Opportunity to shape policy positions impacting youth and families
• Collaboration with advocacy, research, and leadership teams
• Professional references and letters of recommendation
• A meaningful role advancing systems-level change

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply directly through Idealist and submit:

• Resume (required)
• Cover letter (required) describing relevant experience in policy, research, or analysis and interest in MAP’s mission