FYSA Policy and Advocacy Associate

Position Summary

The Policy & Advocacy Associate provides strategic, operational, and administrative support to the Fostering Youth Success Alliance (FYSA), advancing statewide policy and advocacy efforts that improve outcomes for current and former foster youth across New York State.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Policy Analysis
• Track and report on key hearings, policy developments, and advocacy opportunities within child welfare and related policy areas that impact youth with a foster care background and transition age youth.
• Develop subject matter expertise in assigned issue areas to inform internal and external strategy.
• Advocacy Engagement
• Coordinate logistics and provide support for youth-focused events, including forums and shadow days.
• Support legislative and advocacy efforts by coordinating logistics, ensuring alignment among youth, partners, and staff, and assisting with participant recruitment for lobby days and related events.
• Develop materials that will aid in educating and mobilizing youth and partners on FYSA issue areas and resources.
• Co-develop and co-deliver legislative, advocacy, and social media trainings for youth, families, and staff.
• Project & Operational Coordination
• Provide administrative, technical, and clerical support to the Office of Public Policy team including scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, and facilitating internal meetings.
• Maintain all FYSA online communications, including website, social media, and advocacy alerts.
• Produce monthly communication to the alliance steering committee and working groups.
• Conduct weekly check-ins with our Youth Advocate Cohort.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must possess High-School Diploma and 4 years of relevant experience in policy and advocacy role(s) required.
• OR bachelor’s degree and one year of relevant experience preferred.
• Lived experience in foster care and/or experience working with youth in foster care preferred.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail, creative and the initiative to solve or anticipate problems.
• Experience working with youth and families on advocacy-related issues.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to travel occasionally to Washington DC and Albany is required.
• A passion for and commitment to mission-based work and social change, especially around youth with a foster care background.