Details
04/26/2018
ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow-Ohio
The ELCA has posted the next round of Hunger leader fellowships, and Ohio is on the list! This will be a full-time, full-year commitment and based in Columbus. The person chosen will work with the Hunger Network in Ohio in promoting ELCA world hunger, engaging congregations, and advocating for long-term solutions to hunger and poverty.
The position will begin in August and they will network with the hunger leader fellows in New Jersey, Washington State, Southeast Synod, and Wisconsin for shared and mutual support.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Through the support of ELCA World Hunger, ELCA Advocacy works in partnership with statewide advocacy ministry networks across the United States to end hunger by engaging directly with local, state and national governments and equipping people of faith to seek justice through advocacy. Each office relates to the synods in their state and works closely with hunger leaders and synod teams. ELCA Advocacy is a ministry of the ELCA Domestic Mission Unit.
The Hunger Advocacy Fellow will participate in a 12-month transformative experience that combines leadership development and faith formation with impactful advocacy that moves us toward an end to hunger and a just world where all are fed.
The 2018 Hunger Advocacy Fellow is a full-time contract employee (with benefits) of the following state advocacy organization:
The Hunger Network in Ohio
300 S. 2nd St. Suite 201 Columbus, OH 43215
http://www.hungernetohio.com/
Focusing on analyzing and addressing the root causes of hunger and economic injustice, and promoting a holistic approach to hunger ministry, the Hunger Advocacy Fellow will build ELCA World Hunger capacity to end hunger by deepening and expanding Lutheran statewide advocacy efforts in synods, coalitions and networks.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABLITIES:
1. ADVOCACY ENGAGEMENT:
-Guide the development of a Lutheran state advocacy network by:
*engaging with communities to empower disciples for hunger advocacy;
*connect with congregational ministries (especially hunger ministries) to provide tools and support for moral deliberation and faith-based advocacy;
*and work with community members who have faced hunger and poverty to create platforms for their voices to be heard by elected officials, policymakers and the church.
-Create advocacy opportunities that help expand the network and connect youth and young adults to the church and its ministries.
2. COMMUNICATIONS:
Research, write and edit action alerts, position papers, web updates, newsletter articles and other resources, such as video and social media to educate the advocacy network and lawmakers on hunger advocacy priorities. Creatively facilitate communication and story-sharing with Lutheran synods, agencies and institutions throughout the state.
3. REPRESENTATION OF ADVOCACY NETWORK:
Participate in ecumenical and human service coalitions that advocate for public policy positions in harmony with issues identified by the ELCA and (State) Policy Council.Advocate on issues with state lawmakers, legislative and administrative staff and other public policy leaders.
4. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND FAITH FORMATION:
Connect throughout the year with ELCA Advocacy, ELCA World Hunger, ELCA ministries and Hunger Advocacy Fellows in other parts of the country for collective faith formation, leadership development and community building.
5. Work in collaboration with state advocacy director to identify any additional contextual responsibilities or duties as needed in the region.
Travel
Travel is primarily within the network’s state(s) and does require the ability to drive (personal vehicle is not required). Includes day trips to synods or congregations within driving range and occasional overnight trips to further parts of the state for synod assemblies.Travel includes 1-3 trips/year to churchwide events outside of the state.
Physical Effort
Involves moderate physical activity, particularly lots of walking on uneven tiled floors and climbing stairs when doing visits throughout the State Capitol building. Sometimes hiking to engage in a camping or other outdoor environment. Sometimes involves long periods of standing during rallies and press conferences.
Experience and Skills:
1. Possess an open, engaging personality and preparedness for interacting with community members directly affected by hunger or poverty. Understand and respect the expertise of individuals who have lived experiences of hunger, and excitement for creating platforms for the voices of these community members to be heard by policymakers.
2. Willingness to learn about the ELCA’s commitment to be a publicly-engaged church, direct legislative engagement and coalition work, and to become familiar with ELCA mission and structure.
3. Understanding of and commitment to the biblical and theological basis of this church and its commitment to public policy advocacy. Ability to model these values in relationship with colleagues, partners and the public.
4. Strong interpersonal skills to work with synodical leadership, lay leaders and clergy in congregations, social ministry organizations, educational institutions and others.
5. Good research and analysis skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to design and lead public forums.
6. Knowledge of the social issues faced by communities they serve in, and the various points of view they elicit. Awareness of and sensitivity toward the diversity among residents of the state and ability to equip all types of audiences toward action on a common goal.
7. At least 18 years of age. High-school diploma (or equivalent) required, some college preferred.
