Coordinator for Advocacy and Community Voice (Innovation & Justice)

About Goddard Riverside and the Innovation & Justice Department

Goddard Riverside Community Center is a well-established agency serving approximately 22,000 New Yorkers annually with an operating budget near $95 million. It is recognized as one of the leading human service organizations in New York City, dedicated to fostering a just and equitable society where all individuals can make decisions that improve their lives and those of their families. The Innovation and Justice (INJ) Department fosters learning and leadership both internally and in the communities served.

#DegreesNYC, under INJ, is a collective impact initiative co-led by young people striving for educational equity across New York City. Launched from Goddard’s counseling programs, #DegreesNYC aims to ensure that 60% of individuals from every racial and income group in NYC obtain quality postsecondary credentials. The initiative operates through a connected network of councils, task forces, and working groups.

Role Overview

The Coordinator of Advocacy and Community Voice primarily supports #DegreesNYC and the communities around Amsterdam Houses and the Addition public housing. The position also assists organizational efforts to lift community voices and leadership broadly. Serving as a facilitator for youth leadership, the Coordinator provides training, develops customized curriculum, and mentors youth fellows as they plan and carry out projects aligned with #DegreesNYC’s policy goals.

The Coordinator monitors advocacy-related projects, including qualitative data and policy initiatives, and oversees regular weekly meetings with Advocacy Fellows, offering one-on-one mentorship. Partnering with the Co-Coordinator for Data and Research, this role co-leads the Youth Council in gathering and synthesizing both qualitative and quantitative data to support various projects. Their work includes building coalitions and coordinating youth-led advocacy campaigns to mobilize education supporters and practitioners.

Objectives and Responsibilities

This position exemplifies Goddard’s "case to cause" philosophy by addressing systemic root causes through relationship building and community organizing that empowers residents to identify shared concerns and develop collective strategies for change. The Coordinator stewards the Youth Council’s vision, guiding a team of up to five Youth Leads to expand membership and impact. Responsibilities include shaping strategy, managing communications, organizing events and advocacy activities, and supporting fundraising and data-driven initiatives.

The role also involves local and national engagement in advocacy forums and wider community events to amplify the Youth Council’s influence within and beyond Goddard Riverside.

Working Conditions and Compensation

The workweek is Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend commitments. The salary range for this role is $60,000 to $75,000 annually, commensurate with experience and relevant qualifications.