News

Open Buffalo Mission:

Our mission is to advance racial, economic, and ecological justice. We do so through skill-building, network connecting, and activating leadership opportunities. Our goal is that all communities in Western New York are thriving free from discrimination and poverty.
 
Our Collective Vision of Liberation:

Our vision is that all communities in Western New York are thriving free from discrimination and poverty. We believe in an empowered democratic society, where grassroots, nonprofit, faith-based, philanthropic, local government, and business sectors work in solidarity to advance equity, justice and peace. An empowered democratic society is key to joyful, culturally rich community and a sustainable planet.

Fundamental Value:

We believe that people directly experiencing the challenges and inequities that we aim to address should always have a voice in both diagnosing the problems and developing the solutions.

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An Opportunity to Join Our Team

POSITION: Program Associate

Date of Posting: April 1, 2022

 
Job Description

The Program Associate will enhance the capacity of Open Buffalo’s programs and operations by providing administrative support to the Executive and Deputy Directors of Open Buffalo and by serving as a project manager for a water equity initiative. The Program associate is a full-time, position with benefits based in Buffalo, NY, reporting to the Open Buffalo Executive Director.

Responsibilities Include:

Office Operations and Logistics

• Serve as administrative assistant to Executive and Deputy Directors.
• Coordinate the day-to-day operations of the office such as ordering supplies and communicating with vendors.
• Set up meeting rooms and event spaces as needed.
• Troubleshoot technical and administrative problems.
• Logistical coordination and support for Open Buffalo’s Leadership Development programs.

Community Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders to implement program initiatives and campaigns.
• Plan and implement pop-up community engagement events in targeted communities.
• Community canvassing and other community outreach activities.

About the Open Buffalo Program Associate:

• Demonstrated commitment, through work or volunteer experience, familiarity with, and keen interest in social justice.
• Strong writing, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated examples of flexibility, creativity, and initiative.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently and to juggle multiple tasks under time constraints.
• A positive attitude to a demanding and dynamic work environment.
• People skills and sensitivity to people's needs.
• Enthusiasm and energy, sound judgment.
• The ability to be flexible and deal well with deadlines and a variety of projects.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or High School Equivalency
• AA or BA preferred
• Proficiency with productivity software in Microsoft Office and Google systems.  
• Passion for working on social justice issues
• Experience with and understanding of the tenets of community organizing, community outreach and engagement.
• Familiarity of environmental issues in Western New York
• The ability to be flexible and deal well with deadlines and a variety of projects.
• Interest and/or experience in working with youth, with a caring and inspiring approach
• Ability to work well both independently and in teams
• Excellent communication skills (written, verbal)
• Flexibility in working evenings and weekends required.
• Access to transportation, local travel will be required.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Open Buffalo values diversity and inclusion throughout our city and within our organization. People of color, women, LGBTQI individuals, people with disabilities, and formerly incarcerated people are encouraged to apply.

Salary and Benefits:

Open Buffalo offers a competitive salary and benefits package. The annual salary for the position is $42,000. Full health benefits, 401-K, and generous time off. Friendly, culturally vibrant, team-oriented working environment. Questions on terms of employment can be directed to jobs@openbuffalo.org.  

Application:

We strongly suggest all candidates to visit the Open Buffalo website and social media accounts to learn about the work of the organization.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and the names, association, and contact information of three different types of individuals who can give us greater insights as to who you are, what you value, and how you work. Please send via e-mail to jobs@openbuffalo.org.