Fair Housing and Municipal Engagement Program Associate

Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA) is the non-profit umbrella organization for affordable housing and community development activities in Massachusetts. Established in 1967, CHAPA has a diverse and active membership of more than 1,500 individuals and organizations, including volunteers and professionals in the private, public, and non-profit sectors.  CHAPA pursues its goals through advocacy with local, state and federal officials; research analysis; education and training; and programs to expand rental and homeownership opportunities. For more information, please visit www.chapa.org. 

 

 

This position has two primary responsibilities: 

 

·         Working with the Fair Housing and Municipal Engagement Director to help strategically identify areas of policy and practice that promote equal and fair access to housing opportunities

·         Working with the Municipal Engagement Initiative (MEI) team to build support for affordable housing production and bolster efforts to expand housing opportunities at the local level in communities across the Commonwealth. 

 

The Fair Housing and Municipal Engagement Program Associate will report to CHAPA’s Fair Housing and Municipal Engagement Director.
 

 ·         Assist in the development and implementation of fair housing policies

·         Coordinate CHAPA’s Fair Housing Committee meetings

·         Implement CHAPA’s Fair Housing Month forum/events and trainings

·         Assist in selecting Communities in which to provide MEI services, and in tracking and reporting success

·         Conduct public education efforts and develop strategies with local residents to increase affordable housing production, including coordinating and staffing local meetings with residents and coalitions and developing fact sheets and alerts for local initiatives

·         Represent CHAPA at local Housing Forums and other events

·         General knowledge and understanding of fair housing issues. 

·         Experience building coalitions and developing a shared vision among a range of interests. May be professional or volunteer role.

·         Two or more years’ experience working to increase affordable housing opportunities. May be professional or volunteer role.

·         Knowledge of housing and community development issues and practices, with an emphasis on the local level.

·         Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including meeting facilitation.

·         Experience working with people of diverse social and economic backgrounds.

·         Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and deadlines.

·         Ability to work both independently and within a team.

·         Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings as needed.

·         Sensitivity to the needs of people of low incomes and avid dedication to increasing affordable housing access and opportunities in Massachusetts. 

Salary: 

 

The salary range is $55-$65,000, based on experience. CHAPA also provides a generous package of benefits including vacation and sick time, health insurance, short-term disability insurance, life insurance, and retirement benefits.

Candidates of diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Please submit a cover letter and resume to Whitney Demetrius at wdemetrius@chapa.org by 5:00 pm on Friday, June 23, 2023.  CHAPA is an equal opportunity employer.