Disability Rights California
Senior Public Policy Advocate – Mental Health
Disability Rights California, Sacramento, California, United States, 95828
Description
Equitable and Inclusive Hiring at Disability Rights California (DRC)
At Disability Rights California (DRC), we are committed to creating an equitable, accessible, and inclusive experience for all applicants. Below, we’ve outlined important details to ensure you feel fully supported throughout the hiring process.
Examples of reasonable accommodations include:
American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation
Alternative formats for interview materials (e.g., large print, Braille, digital files)
Interview questions provided prior to the interview
Extended interview time
A quiet or distraction-free interview setting
Adjustments to the interview format for accessibility (e.g., pinning participants,)
Assistance with reading or note-taking during interviews
If you require an accommodation due to a disability to complete this application OR you are experiencing issues submitting your application and accompanying materials, please e-mail: talent@disabilityrightsca.org .
Please note resume and cover letter are required. Incomplete applications will not be considered. People with disabilities, people of color, people in all protected classes, and formerly incarcerated people are encouraged to apply. Make a difference! We fight for the rights of people that have disabilities.... JOIN US! LOCATION: Sacramento / Hybrid - Telecommute (California Only) EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Exempt; Regular; Full time. SALARY RANGE: Band 12 ($89, 435 - $130,958) We base salary offers on program budget, experience and an internal equity analysis. Therefore, our offers are firm. EXCELLENT BENEFITS Including 8% 401k Match, a language differential up to $250/mo. Health (HMO and PPO options), dental, vision, basic life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance and flexible spending accounts (medical, dependent care and commuter). Additionally, we offer ample vacation, sick/self care leave and eighteen paid holidays (including the last week in December) and more….. We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - eligible employer. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled. Applications should be received by March 21, 2025 to be considered for the first round of interviews.
Resume and cover letter are reviewed and required. Incomplete applications will not be considered. WHO WE ARE Disability Rights California (DRC) defends, advances, and strengthens the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities. DRC works for a world where all disabled people have power and are treated with dignity and respect. In this world, people with disabilities are supported, valued, included in their communities, afforded the same opportunities as people without disabilities, and make their own decisions. DRC values all forms of human diversity. We are committed to a culture of belonging where all people are welcome. In order to be effective advocates for all people with disabilities, we must address discrimination in all its forms, including the unique challenges faced by people who experience the intersection of multiple systems of discrimination. PURPOSE OF THE JOB The Senior Public Policy Advocate is part of the public policy unit at Disability Rights California (DRC) and is responsible for public policy advocacy activities and coalition building focused on mental health issues in collaboration with the Executive Director and the other units working on mental health issues at DRC. The Senior Public Policy Advocate identifies, monitors, and advocates around legislative activities that affect Californians with disabilities; has expert substantive knowledge; and a working knowledge of all areas covered by Disability Rights California. The Senior Public Policy Advocate will work with the Executive Director, Legislative Unit, Mental Health Team, Civil Rights Team, Investigations unit, and community stakeholders to co-develop and implement DRC’s legislative strategy on Mental Health. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Public Policy Advocacy – 100% · Works closely with the public policy staff, the Legal Advocacy Unit and the Investigations Unit. DRC provides reasonable disability accommodations to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Senior Public Policy Advocate essential functions include: Collaboration with Associate Executive Director for External Affairs and Leadership · Collaborate with Associate Executive Director of External Affairs, Executive Director, and Associate Director of Policy · Work closely with DRC Leadership as needed · Work closely with the Mental Health Practice Group Mental Health Policy Lead - California · Collaborate with diverse, mental health peer-run organizations and DRC staff with substantive expertise to identify priority areas for systemic reform through legislative, regulatory, or other policy advocacy. · Lead DRC’s mental health public policy advocacy strategy centering disability justice, racial justice, and the lived experiences of DRC clients. · Participate in the day-to-day operations of the public policy unit, including - Developing and maintaining relationships with Californian mental health leaders, elected officials and policy staff. - Preparing, conducting, and coordinating public testimony; - Drafting and editing written advocacy materials; - Tracking bills, legislative deadlines and emerging developments - Coordinating and facilitating meetings with the state legislature and stakeholders. - Lead efforts in California State policy advocacy at the state and local level, including lobbying, ensuring letters are written and that DRC has a presence in and around public policy spaces. - Coordinating and organizing efforts for systemic change, as well as supporting the policy efforts of organizations led by mental health peers. · Co-Develop a communications strategy for mental health policy advocacy, including media responses, in collaboration with other units with expertise on issues affecting people with mental health disabilities. · Exhibit an expert level understanding of the policy process Federal and Local Policy · Develop and maintain relationships with National mental health peer leaders, elected officials, policy staff. Engage in efforts to develop a coordinated strategy local, state and federal platforms in collaboration with the Executive Director, Associate Executive Director, Director of External Affairs, Policy attorneys and other staff specializing in advocating for the rights of people with mental health disabilities. · Develop an expertise in federal and local policy relating to mental health issues. Other Duties · Participate in outreach activities with diverse and underserved communities and populations, as assigned. · Limited travel, as assigned. · Perform other duties, as assigned. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES · Mental Health Policy Attorney relating to Public Policy · Other supervision as needed Requirements MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: (Applicants MUST meet EACH of the minimum qualifications to be considered for an interview.) · Either a Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from four-year college or university in a relevant field such as such as political science, law or a related field
or
equivalent job experience; · 7 years professional experience in areas such as policy advocacy, community outreach, campaign work or additional years of experience may be substituted for education. · Strong relationship with diverse disability leaders including multi-ethnic communities. - Excellent organizational, oral and written communication, and leadership skills; - Excellent strategic judgment, the ability to spot and seize opportunities and the desire to be part of a collaborative team; · Ability to manage projects from start to finish. · Enthusiasm and aptitude for working collaboratively within the disability community and diverse advocacy organizations. · Ability to manage complex assignments, prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, work well under pressure, and maintain confidentiality, with minimum supervisionand within fast-paced legislative and policy environments. · Ability to mentor and/ or supervise others as needed DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS (Applicants DO NOT have to meet any of the Desirable Qualifications to be considered for an interview.) · Life experience as a person with a disability · Direct experience as a family member of a person with a disability. · Person from underrepresented community. · Bilingual · Advanced degree in policy, law or other relevant field. · Experience working with Board of Directors and nonprofit agencies. · Experience working with civil rights groups, disability groups or legal services programs. · Contacts with disability organizations and/or within disability communities. · Experience working with and/or sensitivity to persons with disabilities and from multi- ethnic communities. CORE COMPETENCY SKILL LEVELS The competencies below represent the knowledge, skills, behaviors and/or abilities required to be successful at DRC, with or without disability related reasonable accommodations. Advocacy Ability to participate in stakeholder meeting with government officials/offices. Ability to influence public policy. Communication Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents/terminology, laws, financial and technical reports. Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints. Ability to write using original or innovative techniques or style. Ability to negotiate to serve the interest of the client or reconcile divergent interest and opinions. Ability to make effective and persuasive presentations on controversial or complex topics to governmental entities, facility leadership, public groups/officials, and/or boards of directors. Critical Thinking Understands that few things are black and white. Ability to explore factors in any situation for the purpose of determining the array of best possible solutions. Incorporates facts, impact on others, and communication strategy into problem solving methodology. Diversity & Inclusion Advocates for deep understanding and respect for the diversity of disabilities, cultures, values, perspectives and beliefs. Works to understand the perspectives of others and encourages them to provide their perspectives. Leverages diverse perspectives in group processes and decision-making. Anticipates and recognizes the concerns of others, even if those concerns are not openly expressed. Relationship Building Ability to take proactive steps to reach out to clients, community partners, facilities and/or community agencies in more direct, relevant, and personal ways. Addresses issues in an open, constructive, professional manner, and persuades others to approach issues in the same manner. Seeks to resolve confrontations and disagreements constructively. Focuses on the situation, issues, or behaviors, rather than the people. Supports the good ideas of others LICENSES / CERTIFICATES · Must be a registered lobbyist or become registered within 60 days of employment. · Must attend Lobbyist Ethics Course. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS Ability to travel occasionally for activities such as out-of-town meetings, training, or outreach activities up to 25% of the time. WORKING CONDITIONS Hybrid working conditions. Work can either be performed in a DRC office or from home. If supervisor requires, the person might need to come into the local office or attend other meetings as needed. A strategy for attending important hearings or meetings at the California State Capitol might be necessary.
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Please note resume and cover letter are required. Incomplete applications will not be considered. People with disabilities, people of color, people in all protected classes, and formerly incarcerated people are encouraged to apply. Make a difference! We fight for the rights of people that have disabilities.... JOIN US! LOCATION: Sacramento / Hybrid - Telecommute (California Only) EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Exempt; Regular; Full time. SALARY RANGE: Band 12 ($89, 435 - $130,958) We base salary offers on program budget, experience and an internal equity analysis. Therefore, our offers are firm. EXCELLENT BENEFITS Including 8% 401k Match, a language differential up to $250/mo. Health (HMO and PPO options), dental, vision, basic life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance and flexible spending accounts (medical, dependent care and commuter). Additionally, we offer ample vacation, sick/self care leave and eighteen paid holidays (including the last week in December) and more….. We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - eligible employer. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled. Applications should be received by March 21, 2025 to be considered for the first round of interviews.
Resume and cover letter are reviewed and required. Incomplete applications will not be considered. WHO WE ARE Disability Rights California (DRC) defends, advances, and strengthens the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities. DRC works for a world where all disabled people have power and are treated with dignity and respect. In this world, people with disabilities are supported, valued, included in their communities, afforded the same opportunities as people without disabilities, and make their own decisions. DRC values all forms of human diversity. We are committed to a culture of belonging where all people are welcome. In order to be effective advocates for all people with disabilities, we must address discrimination in all its forms, including the unique challenges faced by people who experience the intersection of multiple systems of discrimination. PURPOSE OF THE JOB The Senior Public Policy Advocate is part of the public policy unit at Disability Rights California (DRC) and is responsible for public policy advocacy activities and coalition building focused on mental health issues in collaboration with the Executive Director and the other units working on mental health issues at DRC. The Senior Public Policy Advocate identifies, monitors, and advocates around legislative activities that affect Californians with disabilities; has expert substantive knowledge; and a working knowledge of all areas covered by Disability Rights California. The Senior Public Policy Advocate will work with the Executive Director, Legislative Unit, Mental Health Team, Civil Rights Team, Investigations unit, and community stakeholders to co-develop and implement DRC’s legislative strategy on Mental Health. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Public Policy Advocacy – 100% · Works closely with the public policy staff, the Legal Advocacy Unit and the Investigations Unit. DRC provides reasonable disability accommodations to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Senior Public Policy Advocate essential functions include: Collaboration with Associate Executive Director for External Affairs and Leadership · Collaborate with Associate Executive Director of External Affairs, Executive Director, and Associate Director of Policy · Work closely with DRC Leadership as needed · Work closely with the Mental Health Practice Group Mental Health Policy Lead - California · Collaborate with diverse, mental health peer-run organizations and DRC staff with substantive expertise to identify priority areas for systemic reform through legislative, regulatory, or other policy advocacy. · Lead DRC’s mental health public policy advocacy strategy centering disability justice, racial justice, and the lived experiences of DRC clients. · Participate in the day-to-day operations of the public policy unit, including - Developing and maintaining relationships with Californian mental health leaders, elected officials and policy staff. - Preparing, conducting, and coordinating public testimony; - Drafting and editing written advocacy materials; - Tracking bills, legislative deadlines and emerging developments - Coordinating and facilitating meetings with the state legislature and stakeholders. - Lead efforts in California State policy advocacy at the state and local level, including lobbying, ensuring letters are written and that DRC has a presence in and around public policy spaces. - Coordinating and organizing efforts for systemic change, as well as supporting the policy efforts of organizations led by mental health peers. · Co-Develop a communications strategy for mental health policy advocacy, including media responses, in collaboration with other units with expertise on issues affecting people with mental health disabilities. · Exhibit an expert level understanding of the policy process Federal and Local Policy · Develop and maintain relationships with National mental health peer leaders, elected officials, policy staff. Engage in efforts to develop a coordinated strategy local, state and federal platforms in collaboration with the Executive Director, Associate Executive Director, Director of External Affairs, Policy attorneys and other staff specializing in advocating for the rights of people with mental health disabilities. · Develop an expertise in federal and local policy relating to mental health issues. Other Duties · Participate in outreach activities with diverse and underserved communities and populations, as assigned. · Limited travel, as assigned. · Perform other duties, as assigned. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES · Mental Health Policy Attorney relating to Public Policy · Other supervision as needed Requirements MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: (Applicants MUST meet EACH of the minimum qualifications to be considered for an interview.) · Either a Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from four-year college or university in a relevant field such as such as political science, law or a related field
or
equivalent job experience; · 7 years professional experience in areas such as policy advocacy, community outreach, campaign work or additional years of experience may be substituted for education. · Strong relationship with diverse disability leaders including multi-ethnic communities. - Excellent organizational, oral and written communication, and leadership skills; - Excellent strategic judgment, the ability to spot and seize opportunities and the desire to be part of a collaborative team; · Ability to manage projects from start to finish. · Enthusiasm and aptitude for working collaboratively within the disability community and diverse advocacy organizations. · Ability to manage complex assignments, prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, work well under pressure, and maintain confidentiality, with minimum supervisionand within fast-paced legislative and policy environments. · Ability to mentor and/ or supervise others as needed DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS (Applicants DO NOT have to meet any of the Desirable Qualifications to be considered for an interview.) · Life experience as a person with a disability · Direct experience as a family member of a person with a disability. · Person from underrepresented community. · Bilingual · Advanced degree in policy, law or other relevant field. · Experience working with Board of Directors and nonprofit agencies. · Experience working with civil rights groups, disability groups or legal services programs. · Contacts with disability organizations and/or within disability communities. · Experience working with and/or sensitivity to persons with disabilities and from multi- ethnic communities. CORE COMPETENCY SKILL LEVELS The competencies below represent the knowledge, skills, behaviors and/or abilities required to be successful at DRC, with or without disability related reasonable accommodations. Advocacy Ability to participate in stakeholder meeting with government officials/offices. Ability to influence public policy. Communication Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents/terminology, laws, financial and technical reports. Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints. Ability to write using original or innovative techniques or style. Ability to negotiate to serve the interest of the client or reconcile divergent interest and opinions. Ability to make effective and persuasive presentations on controversial or complex topics to governmental entities, facility leadership, public groups/officials, and/or boards of directors. Critical Thinking Understands that few things are black and white. Ability to explore factors in any situation for the purpose of determining the array of best possible solutions. Incorporates facts, impact on others, and communication strategy into problem solving methodology. Diversity & Inclusion Advocates for deep understanding and respect for the diversity of disabilities, cultures, values, perspectives and beliefs. Works to understand the perspectives of others and encourages them to provide their perspectives. Leverages diverse perspectives in group processes and decision-making. Anticipates and recognizes the concerns of others, even if those concerns are not openly expressed. Relationship Building Ability to take proactive steps to reach out to clients, community partners, facilities and/or community agencies in more direct, relevant, and personal ways. Addresses issues in an open, constructive, professional manner, and persuades others to approach issues in the same manner. Seeks to resolve confrontations and disagreements constructively. Focuses on the situation, issues, or behaviors, rather than the people. Supports the good ideas of others LICENSES / CERTIFICATES · Must be a registered lobbyist or become registered within 60 days of employment. · Must attend Lobbyist Ethics Course. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS Ability to travel occasionally for activities such as out-of-town meetings, training, or outreach activities up to 25% of the time. WORKING CONDITIONS Hybrid working conditions. Work can either be performed in a DRC office or from home. If supervisor requires, the person might need to come into the local office or attend other meetings as needed. A strategy for attending important hearings or meetings at the California State Capitol might be necessary.
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