Careers

Community Builder

Are you a self-motivated, creative community organizer? Do you thrive in environments where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn? Are you passionate about fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) through hands-on initiatives?

If you answered yes to these questions, then we invite you to join our dynamic team of colleagues dedicated to advancing the disability-forward movement!

OSG is dedicated to supporting adults with disabilities in affordable housing developments across Northern Virginia, offering over 100 hours of inclusive programming each month. From walks and yoga to art sessions and movie nights, our diverse activities foster community and inclusion among our members. Expanding beyond our immediate communities, OSG’s services reach over 500 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) across Northern Virginia. Our inclusive programming fosters belonging and provides valuable resources to individuals and families in need, reflecting our commitment to community support and inclusion.

Central to OSG’s mission are our Community Builders, who collaborate closely with our Program and Community Coordinator to customize programming that promotes inclusion and interdependent living. These dedicated individuals serve as the linchpin of our organization, facilitating connections and ensuring the well-being of our members.

As our new Community Builder, you will serve roughly 100 residents in two apartment complexes in Herndon and on the George Mason University campus. A typical day will involve engaging with residents through community walks, art classes, informal dinners, and movies. Volunteer work, such as supporting food distribution, is integral to your role. You will also help with data collection, reporting, and social media.

Key Responsibilities:

• Foster Inclusion

  • Lead engaging activities and events that cater to the diverse interests of OSG residents and community members.
  • Actively promote and encourage participation in events through various channels, including in-person interactions and digital communication.
  • Conduct regular surveys within the community to gauge interest and ensure high turnout for activities.
  • Maintain a self-motivated and proactive approach to community organizing, demonstrating a willingness to learn and adapt in a startup, grassroots environment.

• Provide support for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

  • Lead in-person programming for 20 hours per week with an additional 20 hours dedicated to online meetings and coordination.
  • Lead apartment tours and housing presentations.
  • Connect residents with appropriate services and resources to address their individual needs.
  • Foster partnerships with relevant organizations to enhance support services and opportunities for residents.
  • Provide educational resources and guidance on health, safety, and well-being within the community.
  • Complete research, reporting, and additional projects as requested by the Executive Director.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrate empathy and compassion, deeply prioritizing the well-being of others.
• Exhibit strong interpersonal skills to effectively connect with individuals with disabilities (AWD), their families, caregivers, OSG staff, and community partners.
• Possess 2- 3 years prior volunteer or employment experience in community organizing.
• Have previous experience working with marginalized or at-risk populations, such as individuals with disabilities, unhoused individuals, people of color (POC), and LGBTQ+ communities.
• Showcase adept problem-solving skills to address challenges effectively.
• Maintain access to own car and demonstrate willingness to drive, including for the procurement of supplies essential for community events and activities.

What We Offer:

• Annual starting salary: $50,000
• Healthcare stipend: $6,000
• Transportation stipend: $75/month
• 11-paid federal holidays
• 10 days of paid time off (PTO) for vacation
• 5 days of sick-leave

If you are excited about this challenging opportunity, please submit your resumé and a cover letter to Executive Director, Margot Greenlee (margotg@ourstompingground.org), no later than April 7, 2024.

To better understand Our Stomping Ground, please read up on our Values and watch the first segment of this Voice of America broadcast.