Program Associate, Opening Doors & Unlocking Potential

About the role

Technical Assistance and Advocacy
Work with the Opening Doors and Unlocking Potential leadership team to develop state-based strategies to advance policy changes and provide technical assistance.
Cultivate relationships with partners and stakeholders in Opening Doors' and Unlocking Potential’s states to implement strategies.
Provide advocacy support to the lead of specific states, including meeting with policymakers, providing support in building and leading coalitions, and drafting advocacy documents.
Lead meetings, conference calls, webinars, and site visits, and serve as a main point of contact for external partners.
Collaborate with Vera’s Advocacy and Partnerships, Communications, and Research teams on the components of active and forthcoming state campaigns, troubleshooting as issues arise.
Track and monitor relevant state and federal policies.
Complete initial drafting of and finalize program and technical assistance materials, including work plans, agendas, presentations, recommendations, and guidance documents.

Field questions from and devise solutions for stakeholders, including housing providers, employers, government partners, and direct service providers, on employment and housing challenges faced by justice-impacted people.
Develop trainings or conduct policy analyses as components of broader projects.
Write up/presentation of projects
Prepare information and/or lead background research and literature reviews for reports.
Write up results and integrate into public-facing products including reports, advocacy documents, or other publications under the supervision of senior associates.

As part of a team, provide technical assistance to partners and stakeholders, including preparation of public presentations, facilitation of meetings, and shared expertise.
Co-author and co-develop content such as program reports, fundraising proposals, presentations, and blog posts.
Present on Vera’s work at conferences, on webinars, and other external events.
Present at internal Vera events (department meetings, “brown bag” discussions, etc.)

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in political science, criminal justice, public policy, or other related field and 3 plus years of relevant experience.
• In lieu of a Bachelor’s degree, applicable work or life experience may be considered.
• Experience in reentry, workforce development, affordable housing, reentry housing, and/or homeless.