Volunteer Leadership Opportunities

This directory lists current openings for volunteer leaders. Click on the links to the right for a full description.

This website also has listings of:

Amnesty International is an international grassroots movement. Much of our work is done by our network of volunteer groups. We have groups in communities and churches and on high school and college campuses. There are professional networks of lawyers, health professionals, and educators. We very much hope that you will consider joining one of these groups.

We invite you to contact us if you would like to join their efforts to release prisoners of conscience, to focus on targeted country campaigns, or to work on other human rights issues such as torture, refugees, and the death penalty. Groups are also involved with outreach and media work in their communities, constantly seeking to increase the visibility of Amnesty International's human rights message. If you would like to consider starting a group in your own community, please contact us and we can provide you with all the information you need to do this, as well as connect you with an experienced Amnesty member who can directly assist you. If you are a student and are interested in starting an Amnesty group at your school, or in finding out if there is a group already, please call us and we will provide you with this information as well.

For the purpose of servicing members, AIUSA divides the USA into five regions, each with a Regional Office. Click here to find the AIUSA regional office nearest you. If you are looking to volunteer outside of the US, contact your nearest national section.

The National Resolutions Committee
Western Region

The National Resolutions Committee (NRC) is seeking applicants to serve a 2-year term as a regional representative for the Western region. Applicants must be knowledgeable about AIUSA and the resolutions process, have strong research and writing skills, be impartial and willing to work. NRC members promote and facilitate the Membership Resolutions Process, assist sponsors in crafting resolutions, prepare background for the regional and AGM resolutions packets, and advise the Board regarding the process. Involvement is year-round, with the heaviest workload September-November (from submission deadlines through Regional Conference follow-up).

Application deadline is April 30, 2009. For more details, contact the NRC: resol@aiusa.org.

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Legislative Coordinator

AL, AZ, CO, HI, KY, LA, MS, NC, ND, SC, TN, UT

Background: Amnesty International is a human rights movement drawing support from nearly 300,000 members nationwide. Our numbers give Amnesty excellent potential to influence human rights legislation in Washington on a grand scale--provided Amnesty's legislative action is coordinated.

Job Description: The State Legislative Coordinator (LC) is an unpaid volunteer leadership position within Amnesty International's volunteer activist structure. LCs work in conjunction with Amnesty's professional legislative advocates in Washington, Area Coordinators, Student Area Coordinators, regional staff, and statewide membership to achieve legislative goals in the United States. With Amnesty's ongoing training and resources the LC is expected to:

Know the Issues: Keep current with Amnesty International's national legislative priority issues through e-mail, the internet*, and via conference calls (about six calls per year);
Outreach to Groups: Educate and train state Amnesty activists and leaders by conducting at least one area training a year, or by addressing individual group meetings. These trainings should result in at least three meetings a year between activists and their Members of Congress. The Legislative Coordinator should help other Amnesty activists develop working relationships with elected officials. Also, the Legislative Coordinator should seek to work in coalition with other organizations on Amnesty's priority issues when appropriate;
Coordinate Efforts: Set-up, maintain, and use e-mail bursts and phone trees. Track legislative activity of all Amnesty groups in the state and encourage groups to inform the Legislative Office when the group is able to schedule a meeting with their elected official. Maintain regular contact with other volunteer leaders by contacting each Area Coordinator and Student Area Coordinator once per month;
Keep Your Own Skills Sharp: To keep your own skills fresh, develop a working relationship with a Member of Congress (including at least 2 meetings per year and one letter to the editor) and, attend the yearly Legislative Institute (Washington, DC-January) and at least one other Amnesty conference each year.

Routine Amnesty travel and telephone expenses are subsidized. Internet access, while integral to the role of LC, is not subsidized (*Internet access can be obtained through most local libraries, and free e-mail is available). While hours vary, the job requires a commitment of approximately two hours per week.

CONTACT: grassroots@aiusa.org

Legislative Coordinator Application
PDF format | RTF format

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Website Volunteer - DC

Washington, DC

Do you have web skills and an afternoon or a few hours per week to give to Amnesty International? If the answer is yes, we need you!

In our Washington, DC office, we are looking for volunteers with website production skills such as HTML, CSS, Flash and Javascript. We also need volunteers to help respond to inquiries and requests from the public.

Please send a note describing your skills and availability as well as a list of URLs to:
CONTACT: webmaster@aiusa.org

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Volunteer Leadership Opportunities
Mid-Atlantic Region

Are you looking for great opportunities to participate in human rights advocacy?

Show your passion for human rights, build your activism and organizational skills, and form life-long relationships in the human rights community all at the same time!

The Mid-Atlantic Region is always relying on volunteers to help us carry out our advocacy work for human rights issues at home and abroad.

Qualifications

If you have the passion and willingness to devote some time and energy, we will gladly offer you the skills and knowledge required for the various positions. We also cover some (but not all) financial expenses you may come across.

Positions

Mid-Atantic Regional Planning Group (RPG) Seeks New Member
The Mid-Atlantic Regional Planning Group seeks one (1) new member for a two-year term beginning November 2007. The RPG is a volunteer body, which acts as the voice of the membership and serves as an advisory board to the Regional Office. More Information and Application Form

All applications are due by October 30, 2007.

State Death Penalty Abolition Coordinators (SDPAC)

The Mid-Atlantic Region is seeking activists to serve as State Death Penalty Abolition Coordinators (SDPAC). The SDPAC keeps AI groups, volunteer leaders, and staff informed of death penalty news in their state and mobilizes activists to take action when executions are scheduled. Additionally, the SDPAC will mobilize activists to engage in grassroots legislative advocacy. The SDPAC also works with other organizations and organizers in the state to coordinate overall statewide strategies and activities surrounding abolition of the death penalty. A one-year commitment is required, two years is preferred. Job Description | Application Form

Corporate Action Network Coordinator

Amnesty International's CAN Coordinators are a diverse and experienced group of volunteers who use their expertise and enthusiasm to lead local action on cutting edge business-related human rights issues. More Information and Application Form

State Specific Opportunities

Pennsylvania

Western Pennsylvania Student Area Coordinator. SACs act as liaisons between student groups in a geographic area and the Regional Office. They also connect groups within an area to share ideas and organize around human rights actions and campaigns. SACs are important peer leaders who can help student groups increase their effectiveness by providing advice on basic organizing and how to take advantage of AI's wealth of resources and campaigning opportunities. Job Description | Application Form

Area Coordinator for York, Pennsylvania Group. ACs act as organizers in their communities to advance AI's human rights agenda and support the larger human rights movement. They work to build AI's local presence through various activities, including event organizing and other advocacy tactics. They bring together various parts of AI's membership and activist base in their local area to collaborate on initiatives and develop partnerships with other local human rights and social justice activists when coalitional work is needed. Job Description | Application Form

West Virginia

Student Area Coordinator. SACs act as liaisons between student groups in a geographic area and the Regional Office. They also connect groups within an area to share ideas and organize around human rights actions and campaigns. SACs are important peer leaders who can help student groups increase their effectiveness by providing advice on basic organizing and how to take advantage of AI's wealth of resources and campaigning opportunities. Job Description | Application Form

Area Coordinator. ACs act as organizers in their communities to advance AI's human rights agenda and support the larger human rights movement. They work to build AI's local presence through various activities, including event organizing and other advocacy tactics. They bring together various parts of AI's membership and activist base in their local area to collaborate on initiatives and develop partnerships with other local human rights and social justice activists when coalitional work is needed. Job Description | Application Form

D.C.
There are no current vacancies in this state. Please check back in the near future for more opportunities.

Virgina
There are no current vacancies in this state. Please check back in the near future for more opportunities.

Delaware
There are no current vacancies in this state. Please check back in the near future for more opportunities.

Maryland
There are no current vacancies in this state. Please check back in the near future for more opportunities.

CONTACT:
For more information
To find out if your state is in need of any of the above volunteer leadership positions, please contact the regional staff member assigned to your state.

PA, DC, DE: Jennifer Horwitz- jhorwitz@aiusa.org /Phone: 202.544.0200 ext.344

VA, WV, MD: Breanna Peterson - bpeterson@aiusa.org / Phone: 202.544.0200 ext. 269

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Security and Police Transfers Working Group Seeks New Members

Nationwide

Seeking New Members for AIUSA's Military, Security and Police Transfers Working Group

AIUSA's Military, Security and Police Transfers Working Group (MSPWG) works to curb human rights abuse associated with the arms trade, military training, private military contractors and transfers of other 'security' technologies. MSP equipment transfers are of great concern to AI because military and police personnel are those who usually carry out human rights violations in countries where AI has concerns. We are currently looking to add two or three experienced AI members or others with relevant background to this volunteer leadership group. If you're interested in building an activist network and developing campaign actions on arms transfers and foreign military training, please read on!

MSPWG members come from different backgrounds and have a range of expertise and experiences related to the military, security and police transfer issues. We work closely with AIUSA Membership Mobilization and Government Relations staff. Currently on our agenda is a joint AI-Oxfam campaign to help stem the flow of small arms to human rights violators and promote an international treaty to regulate the arms trade (see www.aiusa.org/arms_trade.

Ideal candidates for current openings will have some mix of the following skills:

strong background in organizing and mobilizing activists (either within AI or other movements*);
experience working with or within the military, police or connected industry;
expertise in International Studies, Security Issues, Humanitarian Law or Human Rights Law;
practical or research knowledge of weapons and arms control systems; and
activist or lobbying experience on MSP issues

Volunteer leaders are asked to donate about 10-15 hours per month and make a commitment of two years to this position. Appointments will begin in July 2004. Individuals who wish to apply should send a cover letter and a resume or CV to the address below. In the letter, please describe why you want to work with AIUSA's Military, Security and Police Working Group and highlight your relevant qualifications and experience. The deadline for applications is May 31, 2004.

* Candidates from outside the AI movement must be willing to attend training(s) to get up to speed on AI policies and procedures.

CONTACT:

Mail applications to:
MSPWG c/o Mona Dave
Amnesty International USA
600 Pennsylvania Ave, SE, 5th floor
Washington, DC 20003

or send by fax: (202) 546-7142 or send by email: mdave@aiusa.org

Questions may be directed to Mona Dave at 202-544-0200 ext. 295 or mdave@aiusa.org

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Country Specialists

Nationwide

Country Specialists are AIUSA volunteer leaders commissioned to serve as AIUSA's country experts and strategists. Note that these positions are unpaid volunteer positions, only AI related expenses are reimbursed.

Country Specialists are selected on the basis of a combination of country expertise and experience, Amnesty International knowledge and human rights activist experience, and the organization's needs in that area. Candidates who have lived in the country and speak the language are preferred. In most cases, a minimum of a two-year commitment is requested. Though it is difficult to estimate the time commitment required of volunteers, it is estimated that the position averages ten hours per week. In the interest of avoiding any perception of political bias, Country Specialists may not be assigned to their country of birth, citizenship or naturalization.

While the responsibilities of individual Country Specialists will differ, there are several core responsibilities. These include:

Supporting and monitoring group casework (Action Files, RANs)
Evaluating group work on Action Files and Regional Action Networks (RANs)
Serving as AIUSA's primary link to the relevant subregional team at the International
Secretariat (IS) in London
Providing feedback to the IS on relevant documents and actions
Serving as AIUSA's primary monitor and expert on the relevant country
Collaborating with AIUSA's Communication Department
Maintaining regular contact with relevant governmental officials

Other responsibilities may include:

Collaborating with AIUSA's Campaign Unit
Collaborating with the Government Relations staff to develop and implement AIUSA's approach to the US government
Working with asylum-seekers and refugees from the relevant country
Serving as a link to or collaborating with their counterparts in other AI sections, allied NGO's, and relevant émigré communities in the US
Generally serving as a resource person in any of AIUSA's initiatives to improve human rights in the relevant country and in other ways make AI's concerns about human rights violations in the relevant country known to those able to bring pressure to bear on the government concerned

CONTACT:

Send resume and cover letter to:

Amnesty International,
600 Pennsylvania Ave., SE
Washington, DC 20003.
Attn.: Cogroup Recruitment Office
#WWW-98.

Phone: (202) 544-0200
Fax: (202) 546-7142
Email: cgintern@aiusa.org

Download the job description. »
Download the application. »

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Corporate Action Network (CAN) Coordinator

USA

Amnesty's Business & Human Rights Program is looking for new Corporate Action Network (CAN) Coordinators!

Are you passionate about corporate accountability for human rights? Have you been involved with CAN campaigns such as SHARE POWER, and are ready to take your activism to the next level? Apply to be a 2006/7 CAN Coordinator!

CAN Coordinators are a diverse, experienced, proactive group of volunteers who use their expertise and enthusiasm to lead local action on cutting edge business-related human rights issues. Coordinators will have the opportunity to shape the direction and success of AIUSA's corporate accountability work in their local area.

Through the recruitment and application process described below, we will select 10-15 CAN Coordinators to be trained and resourced to recruit, educate and mobilize local (city and/or statewide) AIUSA and NON-AI activists to take action on the cases provided by the program (with a focus on SHARE POWER), and to grow membership in CAN. CAN Coordinators will be selected based primarily on their experience with corporate accountability campaigning.

To learn more about our areas of work, including SHARE POWER, visit our site.

What type of commitment do Coordinators need to make?

Flexible time commitment, 6 months minimum.
Absorb autodidactic training materials provided and attend CAN Coordinator training (major associated costs covered by AIUSA). Date(s) TBA.
Understand and communicate key issues and message points developed by the program.
Plan and lead 6-10 activist events throughout the year, such as demonstrations, teach-ins, public presentations, small trainings, or workshops, and including at least one city or state-wide CAN training (with support from regional and national staff and volunteers).
Build local network of CAN activists by reaching out to Amnesty and NON-Amnesty groups and individuals. Liaison with AIUSA structures (national and regional staff, other volunteer leaders such as Student Area Coordinators and Area Coordinators).
Communicate with other CAN Coordinators in region to strategize and coordinate activism.
Communicate with BHR staff regularly regarding your activities, successes and challenges.
Participate in conference calls as required (2-4 per year).

What kind of support will Coordinators receive?

Training in program areas and organizing skills (print-based autodidactic materials plus annual in-person training event).
Outreach materials (action guides, AIUSA Activist Toolkit and Field Manual, program brochures, postcards, posters, stickers).
Access to occasional speaking tours, photo exhibits.
Support and technical assistance from BHR and Regional Office staff on an as-needed basis.
Coverage for relevant expenses (subject to approval).

What is the recruitment and selection process?

We will consider the following criteria in the selection process:

	AIUSA activism, roles, network membership, especially experience with CAN and SHARE POWER
	Other forms of activism and organizational membership, especially related to corporate accountability
	Leadership and/or organizing experience
	Work experience (part-time, full-time, including internships)
	Experience/interest in learning about media, legislative work and training
	Experience/interest in public speaking
	Knowledge/experience of issues related to human rights and corporate accountability
	Motivation/commitment to getting involved with this work
	Commitment/availability (estimated 15-20 hours per month)
	Geographic location
	Diversity

Apply Today!: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until March 15, and start dates will range from February 15-April 1. Apply by filling in the application (PDF | MS Word) and emailing, mailing or faxing it to:
Amy O'Meara
aomeara@aiusa.org
Amnesty International Business & Human Rights
5 Penn Plaza, 16th Fl
New York, NY 10001
Fax: 212-627-1451

Please include contact information for 1-2 references, noting their relationship to you. Applications will be reviewed by BHR Program Staff and a committee of Volunteer Leaders, and selected respondents will be interviewed over the phone.

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Special Focus Case Coordinators for the Midwest, Southern, and Western Regions

The Regional Special Focus Case Coordinator plays a key role in helping to develop action on the region's Special Focus Case and in mobilizing activists to undertake that action. The coordinator will serve as a liaison between AIUSA's National Casework Office and her/his respective regional office with regard to SFC-related issues.

What is a Special Focus Case?

There are 5 Special Focus Cases (SFCs) taken up by AIUSA each year. One case is assigned to each of the organization's 5 regions, and all groups in that region, especially student groups, are encouraged to work on the region's case. Activity on the cases generally runs along an academic calendar, with most activity beginning in September and ending in June. The Special Focus Case program is directed by AIUSA's National Casework Office in conjunction with the relevant regional office and other staff and volunteer leaders.

The duties of the Regional Special Focus Case Coordinator include:

Working closely with the relevant Country Specialists and with Casework and other staff to advance AIUSA's work on the region's SFC. The coordinator will participate in email discussions and in periodic conference calls or meetings in which action strategies are developed for the region's Special Focus Case.
Facilitating or otherwise assisting with SFC-oriented workshops at the regional conference and/or at state AI meetings and other forums.
Serving as one of the primary advocates for the region's SFC.
Helping to coordinate region-wide initiatives on the case, such as a Congressional "Dear Colleague" initiative or a Month of Action.
Helping to recruit and to motivate groups working on the region's SFC.
Checking in periodically with SFC groups in the region to review their work, answer questions, and provide assistance as needed.

The Regional SFC Coordinator will possess:

Knowledge of AIUSA, its structure and working methods;
Familiarity with or strong interest in work on individual cases;
Email and web access;
Ability to travel for the purpose of receiving training or providing training to members;
Good written and oral communications skills and good interpersonal skills;

The Regional SFC Coordinator will receive:

All relevant materials relating to the region's Special Focus Case;
Regular communication with the staff of the Casework Office;
Communications from Regional Office that would be relevant to most other regional volunteer leaders.
Training as needed.

Time Commitment:

The Regional SFC Coordinator should be able to commit to the position for one year (roughly July/August through June/July).
On average, the time needed to perform the duties of the RSFC Coordinator will take approximately 3 hours per week .

Expenses:

Travel expenses will be covered by either the Casework Office or the Regional Office, depending on the purpose of the travel.
Regional SFC Coordinators will be provided with a telephone calling card by the Casework Office for use when contacting SFC groups in the region or for other SFC-related calls.

Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) Western Region is looking for Student Activist Coordinators (SACs)
• Are you looking for a way to develop as a human rights leader?
• Would you like to take your activism to a new level?
• Want to work on critical human rights issues on the field?
• Interested in organizing campus and community events?
• Interested in meeting new people in your local area working & promoting human rights issues?
• Want to work with Amnesty International Staff?
• Become a Student Activist Coordinator with Amnesty International!

Why should I apply?
Amnesty International (AI) is a membership and activist based organization. Volunteer leaders play a critical role in carrying out the advocacy work for human rights issues at home and abroad. The SAC program will deepen your knowledge of human rights issues locally and worldwide, while acquiring valuable organizational and activist skills. This is a great opportunity to become a leader and an organizer not only on your campus but in your local community. You will have the opportunity to meet critical human rights activists from your community. This position will enhance your personal, academic and career pursuits.

Who Should Apply? Do you have what it takes?
Applicants may be any of the following:
• Returning Group Coordinators
• First-time Coordinators
• Returning Student Area Coordinators
• Individuals with 6 months to 1year of relevant organizing experience
• Individuals that can demonstrate in some manner a sincere commitment and passion to human rights work in the field

Further you must be willing to commit at least one full school year (August 2008-May 2009) to the program and meet the expectations outlined below. After an evaluation, participants who fulfill all the expectations will receive a Student Leadership Certificate at the end of the school year.

If you have the time, commitment and passion we can assist you in filling in the basic knowledge and skills to do the job! Advanced degrees and other credentials are not a requirement.

How Will I Be Supported? What Is Expected?
• You will be expected to attend one mandatory AI training as well as other various national and regional meetings.
• You will receive a crash course in AI and human rights, as well as skill-building workshops.
• You will gain internal strategies of AI?s primary campaigns.
• As part of regular communication with AI Staff Field Organizer you will be expected to complete 4 reports per semester. Report templates provided.
• Participants will organize two significant human rights activities per semester.
• As part of your regional responsibilities you support activities in your local area being organized by other AI groups, volunteers and staff. Keep in mind your position is an important resources to these individuals.
• Required Communication: Maintaining consistent contact with Field Organizer and assigned student groups every 2 weeks. Provide groups with updates of programs, activities, news and actions
• Outreach: Work with regional staff and other volunteer leaders to identify possible new groups. Help build local networks between local groups and student groups
• Act as a student spokesperson for AI where appropriate
• Ensure that groups are operating within AI's mission and guidelines

If you are interested in joining the SAC program, please contact:

Michelle Brady
Office Administrator - San Francisco Office
mbrady@aiusa.org - 415.288-1800x200

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Western Area Coordinator (AC)

Wyoming, Nevada, and Utah / Western Region

Area Coordinator (AC): an experienced Amnesty International (AI) volunteer who represents the organization in an assigned area by serving as advisor to groups and members-at-large; acts as a liaison between groups, staff, and other AI groups; promotes area-wide initiatives, and acts as a spokesperson for AI where appropriate.

Roles and Responsibilities:
Cultivate and Foster Relationships with Local Groups: As an AC, you provide groups with valuable assistance and support in organizing meetings, recruiting members, locating resources, participating in local and regional events, and sharing ideas for their human rights activism.

Communication is key. Introduce yourself to groups in your area and give them your contact information. Contact groups at least once a month via phone calls and email (flexible depending on number of groups in your area). Make personal visits to group meetings when possible.
Make sure groups have a clear understanding of AI's Mandate, and be sure that they are operating within its guidelines.
Inform and update groups about AI news, local and regional events and about opportunities for involvement with various AI programs and actions.
Provide assistance in: planning an action calendar that is exciting yet realistic to achieve, identifying and meeting training needs, developing and implementing fund-raising activities, and planning and executing AI campaigns.

Recruit and Organize New Members:

Work with regional staff and other volunteer leaders to identify possible new groups and support their efforts to organize, including making sure they receive appropriate information and resources.
Assist in the identification and development of local leaders.
Help build local networks: do what you can to encourage the integration of the work of local groups with student groups and coalitions engaged in human rights work.
Check with Regional Office - some request that AC's help organize:
Special events such as protests, tabling and concerts with local groups
Events and area meetings with other state leaders
One event or fund-raiser per year

Stay In Touch With Your Regional Office: As an AC, it is imperative that you keep in contact with your regional office. They need to hear from you on a regular basis through telephone calls, e-mails, faxes, etc. The Regional Office is your resource center and will keep you updated on events and actions. Most importantly, they are there to support your work!

Alert your Regional Office to successful and interesting human rights undertakings that may be occurring within your area
Keep regional staff informed of specific group needs with which you would like help and any of the problems or challenges that you face.

Educate yourself - know whom you represent and what the issues are:

Attend area and regional meetings, including Regional Conferences, as requested by your regional office.
Attend AI workshops and training meetings as requested by your regional office.
Read the materials (monthly mailing, Regional Office mailing, and visit the website for updates etc.).
Be clear and consistent with groups and individuals about the goals and objectives of AI's work.

Other Region-Specific Duties: Each region may have other specific tasks for ACs to perform or roles for ACs to fulfil, including participation in regional and area planning and personal and regional goal setting.

Term: An AC typically commits for a minimum of two years.

Supervision: The AC works under the guidance and supervision of regional staff, including Membership Program Coordinator and the Deputy Director.

Expenses: Each region provides reimbursement for travel and related expenses associated with agreed upon job responsibilities (postage, photocopying, telephone, etc).

CONTACT:

Attn: Michelle Brady,
Office Administrator - San Francisco Office
Amnesty International USA
350 Sansome Street, Suite 210
San Francisco, CA 94104
Ph: 415.288-1800x200
Email: mbrady@aiusa.org

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Southern Region - Volunteer Leader Opportunities

Southern Region

Southern Region - Volunteer Leader Opportunities

Are you looking for a way to develop as an organizer for human rights?

Would you like to take your activism to a new level?

Make an investment in Amnesty and Amnesty will make an investment in you!

The organizing skills you will learn, both by doing and through trainings, and the relationships you will form will certainly enrich your life! Volunteer leadership experiences may also enhance your academic or career pursuits.

Do you have what it takes?
If you have the time, commitment and passion we can help you fill in the basic knowledge and skills to do the job! Prior experience, advanced degrees and other credentials are not necessary.

While volunteer leaders are not paid, most of their expenses, including the bulk of their training, are covered by AI. We expect volunteers to donate their time and passion, and we do not want money to be an obstacle to participation.

Diversity
We are committed to building a multicultural human rights movement, and welcome people of all backgrounds to apply. Note that all positions are available to youth as well as older adults.

Positions

Regional Planning Group (RPG)
Have you ever wondered how the Southern Regional Office staff figure out the best way to help human rights advocates in the South?

The RPG is an advisory body that works closely with the Southern Regional Director and SRO staff to help us devise an annual workplan, budget, and to evaluate ideas, campaigns, challenges and successes. Being on the RPG is a great opportunity to learn about the functioning of an NGO and good training if you want to one day be on the board of an organization.

RPG members serve up to two, two-year terms. We have monthly one-hour phone calls, and two in-person meetings a year. We will be accepting applications for two RPG slots that will open up in January, 2009.

Student Activist Corps (SAC)
Through the SAC program participants develop basic leadership skills, grow and strengthen their AI groups, and organize effective activities that will promote awareness and advocacy for AI's focal human rights campaigns. Participants will also gain greater confidence and self-awareness while developing a long-term commitment to the human rights movement. SACs are important peer leaders who can help student groups increase their effectiveness by providing advice on basic organizing and how to take advantage of AI's wealth of resources and campaigning opportunities.

Participants attend a weekend Student Leadership Meeting in the fall (expenses covered by AI) where they receive a crash course in AI and human rights, skills-building workshops relevant to campus activism on AI's focal human rights campaigns, and networking opportunities with other student leaders in the region. They are in regular contact with and receive support from their Field Organizer (staffer in the Regional Office) and will organize at least one significant human rights activity per semester. Job description | Application form

Area Coordinators (AC)
ACs act as organizers in their communities to advance AI's human rights agenda and support the larger human rights movement. ACs also serve as the liaison between Amnesty local groups and the regional office. They work to build AI's local presence through various activities, including event organizing and other advocacy tactics. They bring together various parts of AI's membership and activist base in their local area to collaborate on initiatives and develop partnerships with other local human rights and social justice activists when coalitional work is needed.
Job description | Application form

Legislative Coordinators (LC)
The LC works with our Government Relations office in Washington, DC to monitor legislation that is especially pertinent to our human rights concerns. LCs contact members of Congress and mobilize AI members around their state to educate and persuade legislators to vote favorably on our human rights concerns. More information and an application form »

State Death Penalty Abolition Coordinators (SDPAC)
SDPACs are crucial assets to our leadership team here in the "death belt" South (all of our states execute and an overwhelming majority of US executions occur in the South). SDPACs work with AI groups and members and local abolitionists to coordinate and develop strategies for anti-death penalty action, including clemency campaigns, demonstrations, public education and state-level legislative advocacy. Job description | Application form

Stop Violence Against Women Coordinator (SVAWC)
SVAW Coordinators work to promote AI's international Stop Violence against Women (SVAW) Campaign by educating and organizing with AI members in their area and with women's human rights organizations and activists. More information and an application form »

OutFront Coordinator
OutFront Coordinators represent AI in their community acting as educators and organizers on human rights violations and concerns of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered (LGBT) and other sexual minorities. They work to promote action on LGBT human rights issues along with local AI members in their area and with other LGBT organizations and activists in their community. Job description | Application form

Media Coordinators
Media Coordinators work with the regional office staff to promote greater visibility of AI's various human rights concerns and local activity within their community. Job description | Application form

Regional Training Group (RTG) members
The RTG oversees all training programs in the region. It coordinates trainers and designs workshops. The RTG provides input on the design of the Regional Conference, state meetings, and other training initiatives. The group meets once in person (in January) and monthly by conference call. Tasks are also accomplished by email. Contact Laura if interested email lmoye@aiusa.org / 404-876-5661x12

CONTACT:

For more information
To find out if your state is in need of any of the above volunteer leadership positions, please contact the regional staff member assigned to your state.

AL, FL, MS, NC, SC: Everette Catilla email: ecatilla@aiusa.org / 404-876-5661 ext. 15

AR, LA, OK, TN, TX: Adiyah Ali -- aali@aiusa.org / 404-876-5661 ext. 23

GA: Laura Moye - Lmoye@aiusa.org / 404-876-5661 ext. 12

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Multicultural Committee and Subcommittee Vacancies

Nationwide

A human rights organization should model human rights, right?! MAAC (The Multicultural Assessment and Advisory Committee) is looking for candidates interested in helping us continue in our role to monitor and advise the organization in its commitment to "Multicultural Organizational Development" (MCOD). We need new members for the main MAAC, our Subcomittee on Training and Subcommittee on Latino Outreach.

MCOD, which has been a long-standing AIUSA commitment, means modeling the values of human rights internally as an organization, building an evermore inclusive environment that helps us grow our diversity as we increase our membership, and heeding the concerns of marginalized communities (people struggling for human rights). This is a process that requires everyone, at all levels, in AI to be engaged.

AI's members and staff have developed a plan laying out some broad strategies for developing this work called "the MCOD Plan 1999-2009 and Beyond" (In PDF) Requires a password for the Members section. AI members can apply for a password by filling out this form. MAAC is charged with monitoring and assessing the progress of this plan and advising the organization on steps forward.

MAAC, and its subcommittees, are composed of people from diverse backgrounds around the country. Work is carried out by email, telephone conference calls (at least once a month), one annual in-person weekend meeting and a meeting at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

We are looking for new members to MAAC, our Subcommittee on Training, and our Subcommittee on Latino Outreach. We especially encourage youth to apply. Deadline: July 1.

MAAC (main committee, not subcommittees): terms of reference (In PDF) | application form (In PDF) | MAAC Subcommittee on Training terms of reference (In PDF) | MAAC Subcommittee on Latino Outreach application form (In PDF)| and Background Information (In PDF)

CONTACT:

For more information about us and our application process, please contact Laura Moye ? Lmoye@aiusa.org / 404-876-5661x12.

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National Resolutions Committee Seeks New Members!

Nationwide

The National Resolutions Committee (NRC) is seeking applicants to serve a 2-year term as regional representatives for the Midwest, Northeast, Southern and Mid-Atlantic regions. Applicants must be knowledgeable about AIUSA and the resolutions process, have strong research and writing skills, be impartial and willing to work. (NRC members promote and facilitate the resolutions process, assist sponsors in crafting resolutions, prepare background for the regional and AGM resolutions packets, and advise the Board regarding the process. Involvement is year-round, with the heaviest workload September-November (from submission deadlines through Regional Conference follow-up).

CONTACT:

Application deadline June 10, 2007 For more details, contact the NRC: resol@aiusa.org or meet with current NRC members this March at the 2007 AGM in Milwaukee.

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Midwest Regional Leadership Positions

As a membership-based, activist-oriented organization, volunteer leaders play a critical role in helping us carry out our advocacy work for human rights issues at home and abroad. Volunteer leadership positions are great ways to develop your activism skills and knowledge of human rights issues. They are also a great way to meet other amazing people in the human rights community. The organizing skills you will learn, both by participating in and leading trainings, and the relationships you will form will certainly enrich your life! Volunteer leadership experiences may also enhance your academic or career pursuits.

If you have the time, commitment and passion we can help you fill in the basic knowledge and skills to do the job! Prior experience, advanced degrees and other credentials are not necessary. While volunteer leaders are not paid, most of their expenses, including the bulk of their training, are covered by AIUSA. We expect volunteers to donate their time and passion, and we do not want money to be an obstacle to participation.

Diversity
We are committed to building a multicultural human rights movement, and welcome people of all backgrounds to apply. Note that all positions are available to youth as well as older adults.

Positions
We are continually seeking candidates for each of the following positions in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Student Area Coordinators (SAC)
SACs act as liaisons between student groups in a geographic area and the Regional Office. They also connect groups within an area to share ideas and organize around human rights actions and campaigns. SACs are important peer leaders who can help student groups increase their effectiveness by providing advice on basic organizing and how to take advantage of AI's wealth of resources and campaigning opportunities. Job Description | Application

Area Coordinators (AC)
ACs act as organizers in their communities to advance AI's human rights agenda and support the larger human rights movement. They work to build AI's local presence through various activities, including event organizing and other advocacy tactics. They bring together various parts of AI's membership and activist base in their local area to collaborate on initiatives and develop partnerships with other local human rights and social justice activists when coalition work is needed.
Job Description | Application

Legislative Coordinators (LC)
The LC works with our Government Relations office in Washington, DC to monitor legislation that is especially pertinent to our human rights concerns. LCs contact members of Congress and mobilize AI members around their state to educate and persuade legislators to vote favorably on our human rights concerns. Job Description | Application

State Death Penalty Abolition Coordinators (SDPAC)
SDPACs work with AIUSA's Death Penalty Abolition Campaign office in Washington, DC as well as AI groups and members and local abolitionists to coordinate and develop strategies for anti-death penalty action, including clemency campaigns, demonstrations, public education and state-level legislative advocacy. Job Description | Application

CONTACT:
For more information on any of these positions, please contact aiusamw@aiusa.org / 312.427.2060

Midwest Regional Planning Group (RPG) Seeks New Members
The Midwest Regional Planning Group (RPG) is a volunteer body which acts as the voice of the membership and serves as an advisory board to the Regional Office. Our tradition in this region is to seek RPG members who have few other AIUSA positions so RPG work can be their primary focus. RPG members should plan to attend both the Regional Conference in the Fall and the Annual General Meeting in the Spring, as well as participate in regular Conference Calls with the Midwest Regional Office.

If you are interested in applying or have any questions, please email aiusamw@aiusa.org. The RPG functions best when it is representative of the full diversity in our region. Thus, we encourage candidates representing a range of AIUSA experiences, age, gender, race/ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and geography to apply. Candidate applications will be reviewed by the RPG.

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Campaigns Unit Internship

New York, NY

Each year Amnesty International conducts a major international human rights campaign focusing on specific issues or countries. The Campaigns unit is responsible for Amnesty International USA's participation in these major international campaigns and also for a number of smaller, ongoing country campaigns. Interns assist with all aspects of these campaigns, including strategic planning, creating activist campaigning and education materials and tools, public events and actions, and campaign-related meetings.

The Campaigns unit is currently seeking one intern to work out of the New York office. The intern will be recruited to work with the Campaigns Unit on a month by month basis, beginning in mid-November.

Intern Responsibilities:

Help with development of resources related to the Stop Violence Against Women (SVAW) in Darfur and the Convention for the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) Initiatives
Assist with policy and legislative research related to violence against women and girls in Darfur and U.S. CEDAW ratification.
Assist with organizing events and actions aimed at raising awareness of violence against women and girls in Darfur and U.S. CEDAW ratification.
Perform clerical and administrative duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum educational requirement: rising junior or senior and currently enrolled as an Undergraduate student; Graduate student, or student accepted to Law school
Computer literacy (i.e., Microsoft Office, Internet applications) is required.
Experience with research highly desired.
Experience with organizing events highly desired.
Able to commit to at least 24 hours of work per week.
Committed to human rights work and highly motivated.
Familiar with AIUSA's human rights concerns.
Familiar with women's rights issues and relevant international treaties.
Possess strong written and verbal communication skills.
Capable of taking on a significant amount of responsibility.
Works well as a part of a team or independently.
Able to multitask and still pay strict attention to details.
Works creatively and independently with little supervision.

CONTACT:

The Campaigns Unit is currently not recruiting interns.

Amnesty International USA is an EOE. Internships at Amnesty International USA are unpaid.

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National Youth Advisory Committee Seeking Three Members

Midwest, Mid Atlantic, and Faculty Advisor

AIUSA's National Student & Youth Program is seeking applicants for the National Youth Advisory Committee. Members of the National Youth Advisory Committee represent their regions and constituents, working on behalf of students/youth within AIUSA. Also working to effectively connect SAC's, Faculty Advisors, young professionals, and other youth activist with resources that will aid their human rights work. Members are also tasked with working on various projects of the National Student & Youth Program.

National Youth Advisory Committee regional members are responsible for:

Providing input regarding youth programs, policies that affect youth, and other issues where youth feedback is needed.
Assisting the in planning and participating in youth programming at the Regional Conference, including the Student/Youth Caucus.
Assisting in the planning and participating in youth programming at the Annual General Meeting, including the Student Lounge, Student/Youth Caucus/Networking Luncheon, and any other areas where youth input and participation is needed.
Assisting and participating in the planning of the National Week of Student Action.
Providing support and acting as a resource to student groups, SACs, working groups, staff, and any other part of AI membership that calls on the NYAC for feedback.

National Youth Advisory Committee faculty advisor member is responsible for:

Providing input regarding youth programs, policies that affect youth, and other issues where youth feedback is needed.
Assisting in strategy formulation/development for faculty advisors
Assisting in the development of faculty advisor resources.

Committee members should possess experience either as a Student Area Coordinator for regional position, faculty advisor for Faculty Advisor position or meet the requirements for the young professional position. Amnesty Leadership experience is prefered but not required.

CONTACT:

Applications (In PDF) accepted on a rolling basis. Please see the application and terms of reference for more information. Contact Njambi good, National Student Youth Program Manager at (202) 544-0200 ext. 298 or NGood@aiusa.org with questions.

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Human Rights Education Service Corps (HRESC)

Washington, DC

Education Facilitator (Volunteer)

Program Overview: Human Rights Education Service Corps operates through Amnesty International, a leading international human rights organization. The program works to build a nation of human rights defenders and inspire future activists. AI staff members recruit dedicated volunteers from the community and local universities, provide training in human rights education, and connect them to DC public high schools to facilitate classes on human rights. Aside from a basic introduction to human rights, topics may include poverty, the death penalty, women's rights, and other urgent human rights issues.

Job Description: HRESC facilitators implement an 8-10 week human rights curriculum in a DC public high school classroom, with periodic training sessions throughout the semester. Facilitators provide DC students with local and global perspectives on human rights. Through interactive discussion of human rights issues, facilitators help students to understand how such issues affect them and offer students resources to act on these issues.

By participating in HRESC, volunteers gain valuable experience in the human rights and education fields through their work with Amnesty International in DC public high schools. This program allows volunteers to gain teaching experience and connect with Amnesty International staff and volunteers, as well as the greater Washington, DC activist community.

Requirements:
• Membership of Amnesty International is strongly encouraged, though not required.
• An interest in education and a commitment to human rights
• 3-4 hours per week to prepare and implement lessons
• Attendance at a weekend training at the start of the Fall 2009 semester
• Attendance at four Saturday support meetings during the semester (3-4 hours each)
• Ability to work well with a volunteer co-facilitator and plan for each lesson
• Professional attitude, punctuality, and a strong work ethic
• Desire to motivate students to take action for justice in the community, locally, and internationally

CONTACT:
If you would like to apply for our program or are interested in participating in other ways (curriculum development, program development, training, etc.) please download the application PDF | DOC and submit to hresc@aiusa.org.

For more information, email hresc@aiusa.org or call 202.544.0200 ext. 299.

(Please note that preference will be given to those who are members of Amnesty International)

DEADLINE:
We accept applications on a rolling basis but our first priority deadline is January 16, 2009.

Volunteer Leadership Opportunities

The National Resolutions Committee Western Region

Legislative Coordinator

AL, AZ, CO, HI, KY, LA, MS, NC, ND, SC, TN, UT

Website Volunteer - DC

Washington, DC

Volunteer Leadership Opportunities Mid-Atlantic Region

Security and Police Transfers Working Group Seeks New Members

Nationwide

Country Specialists

Nationwide

Corporate Action Network (CAN) Coordinator

USA

Amnesty's Business & Human Rights Program is looking for new Corporate Action Network (CAN) Coordinators!

Special Focus Case Coordinators for the Midwest, Southern, and Western Regions

Student Activist Coordinators

Western Region

Area Coordinators

Western Region

State Death Penalty Abolition Coordinator

Western Region

Counter Terror With Justice Campaign Coordinator

Western Region

Legislative Coordinator

Western Region

Western Student Area Coordinator (SAC)

Western Region

Western Area Coordinator (AC)

Wyoming, Nevada, and Utah / Western Region

Southern Region - Volunteer Leader Opportunities

Southern Region

Multicultural Committee and Subcommittee Vacancies

Nationwide

National Resolutions Committee Seeks New Members!

Nationwide

Midwest Regional Leadership Positions

Campaigns Unit Internship

New York, NY

National Youth Advisory Committee Seeking Three Members

Midwest, Mid Atlantic, and Faculty Advisor

Human Rights Education Service Corps (HRESC)

Washington, DC

Education Facilitator (Volunteer)

The National Resolutions Committee
Western Region

Volunteer Leadership Opportunities
Mid-Atlantic Region