Policy Analyst (Volunteer)

About the role

This role supports research, systems analysis, and policy development across education, housing, and accessibility. The Policy Analyst plays a critical part in ensuring that MAP's policy positions are evidence-based, equity-driven, and inclusive of disability justice perspectives.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on policies impacting youth experiencing housing instability
• Analyze intersections of housing, education, disability, and access
• Identify systemic barriers, inequities, and policy gaps
• Ensure policy analysis incorporates disability justice frameworks
• Examine accessibility implications across policies and systems
• Support development of inclusive, equitable policy recommendations
• Collaborate with PromiseMeasure to integrate data into policy analysis
• Translate research findings into clear, actionable insights
• Support development of evidence-based policy recommendations
• Draft policy briefs, memos, and research summaries
• Support development of advocacy and policy materials
• Ensure clarity, accuracy, and accessibility in written outputs
• Work with advocacy and government relations teams to inform strategy
• Collaborate with program and accessibility teams to ground work in lived experience
• Support alignment across policy, programs, and partnerships
• Track legislative, regulatory, and policy developments
• Monitor changes impacting housing, education, and disability access
• Maintain organized documentation of research and findings
• Support knowledge-sharing across teams
• Maintain structured research documentation and outputs
• Maintain timely, professional responsiveness via Google Workspace

Qualifications

• Strong research and analytical skills
• Strong writing and ability to synthesize complex information
• Ability to apply equity and systems-thinking approaches
• Interest in public policy, social justice, or systems change
• Alignment with MAP’s mission and dignity-centered values

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 in policy research at the intersection of housing, education, and disability justice
• Opportunity to contribute to systems-level change and equity-driven work
• Collaboration with policy, advocacy, and accessibility leaders
• Professional references and letters of recommendation
• A meaningful role shaping policies that impact youth and families

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