VISTA- External Relations
LAF makes equal justice a reality and gets people back on track. For 50 years, LAF (formerly Legal Assistance Foundation) has provided free legal assistance in non-criminal issues to people living in poverty in metropolitan Chicago. LAF’s more than 150 full-time attorneys, staff, and volunteers help resolve legal problems, including domestic violence, consumer fraud, and unfair evictions. Our work stabilizes lives by increasing safety, protecting economic security, and preventing homelessness. In addition to representing individuals in court and administrative hearings, we run community legal clinics, provide know-your-rights workshops, and work with community-based organizations to address emerging issues as well as persistent and chronic problems that affect low-income families.
Position: A member of the AmeriCorps VISTA program will engage in a year of national service at LAF, serving as its External Relations Coordinator.
Responsibilities: Coordinate directly with External Relations staff in efforts to increase LAF’s capacity to offer high-quality fundraising events that provide a great experience for donors and encourage long-term support and involvement with the organization; increase awareness of LAF and the importance of legal aid among potential donors by creating content for LAF’s social media, website and blog; organize and promote presentations and other activities at local law firms and corporations; draft and assist with the development of event invitations, programs, and marketing media.
Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Fundraising, marketing, and/or special events planning experience preferred Term of Service: January 22, 2019 to January 21, 2020. Program Benefits: Living allowance ($1,178/month), choice of Education Award ($5,920) or End of Service Stipend ($1,800), Non-Competitive Eligibility status upon successful completion of service, housing supplement ($200/month), transit pass ($100/month), healthcare allowance, and relocation payment ($550 if eligible). Other Considerations: VISTAs may have outside employment and pursue an education, as long as it does not interfere with service responsibilities and is approved by a supervisor.
To Apply: Submit a VISTA application by December 21, 2018 through the MyAmeriCorps website, found at the following address: my.americorps.gov/mp/recruit/registration.do *To qualify for AmeriCorps VISTA, you must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident. LAF values diversity, is an Equal Opportunity Employer, does not discriminate on the basis of disability, and encourages candidates with experience working with our client population to apply.