Summer Intern

Community Organizing and Outreach

Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy

Number of positions: 1
Duration: 30hrs/week for 8 weeks beginning as soon as possible
Wage: $11.25/hr
Supervisor: Outreach Director
Location: Toronto, ON
Posting Date: Thursday, April 30, 2015
Application Deadline: Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy (CSSDP) is a grassroots network of autonomous chapters made up of youth and students who are concerned about the negative impact current drug policies have on individuals and communities. CSSDP considers problematic drug use a health issue rather than a criminal justice issue, and advocates for appropriate government and agency responses to reduce and prevent harm from drug use. CSSDP provides education and resources to empower young people to make informed decisions about illicit substances, while simultaneously creating a compassionate and non-judgmental space for discussion. CSSDP mobilizes its members to participate in the political process at all levels and to push for government policies grounded on evidence which will help Canada achieve a safer and more just future. 

Position Summary: The Community Organizing and Outreach Intern will be responsible for mobilizing CSSDP chapters with a nation-wide action, using social media and blogs to engage youth, and developing alternative funding strategies for CSSDP. We are seeking a candidate who is passionate about drug policy reform and highly motivated. Mentorship opportunities will be available to the successful candidate.

Major Duties:

  • Organizing, coordinating, and hosting an action for “Support. Don’t Punish” on June 26 among chapters and partner organizations
  • Updating social media platforms and website with relevant developments, particularly those pertaining to Canada, and drafting and sending newsletter updates to CSSDP membership
  • Producing unique content for CSSDP’s website and other relevant publications, including researching, drafting, and publishing finalized editions
  • Staying up to date on drug policy and responding with social media and unique content as the story develops
  • Updating organization resources and website content
  • Developing and implementing a strategy to create a stable revenue stream separate from grant funding
  • Collaborating to create viable business plans for future harm reduction services with partner organizations and beginning implementation (which may include branding, creating distribution networks, and marketing)
  • Attending relevant events on behalf of CSSDP and creating unique content based on experiences
  • Other duties (attending meetings, brainstorming future campaigns etc.) as required

Qualifications

  • Be a post-secondary student returning to school in September 2015
  • Be a youth (ages 16-29)
  • Self-identify as a person with a disability
  • Be technologically literate, as well as have exceptional organizational and proven social media skills (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
  • Demonstrate excellent communication skills and ability to target multiple audiences (politicians, youth, etc.)
  • Be a reliable and capable team player and be able to work independently
  • Have previous experience in any of the following fields: communications, public relations, non-profit management, web development, fundraising, community organizing, or other related disciplines
  • Demonstrate a particular interest in working towards drug policy reform, grassroots social change movements, and youth organizing

CSSDP is an anti-oppression based organization that values diversity. We encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, trans people, people of colour, people who use drugs, queer folks and youth with other identities that are often marginalized. CSSDP is committed to being an accessible employer. Please let us know of any accommodations you might require throughout the application process or while working at CSSDP.

Please send a resume and cover letter addressed to hiring@cssdp.org

Please note only applicants moving forward in the application process will be contacted. To download the posting click here.