PO Box 8638
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 6173676447 ext. 28
Fax: 617/367-5709
Web address: http://www.mhsa.net/SAM
Email: cgolden@mhsa.net
Contact Person:
Ms. Caitlin Golden
Organization Description:
Site Unavailable 2023-2024.
Social Action Massachusetts (SAM) is a program of the Massachusetts Housing & Shelter Alliance (MHSA) that partners with people of diverse religious and ethical commitments to end homelessness. Members of SAM are motivated by spiritual and social values to uphold the dignity of each person and to advocate for permanent solutions to homelessness.
Opportunities for Student Involvement:
The student will focus on promoting advocacy and outreach efforts to increase the involvement of people of faith and ethical commitment across Massachusetts in advocacy to end homelessness. The position will encourage the student to reflect on the relationship between faith, ethics and social action and build relationships with and among religious leaders, lay leaders and others concerned with the issue of homelessness. Working closely with MHSA staff, the student will have the opportunity to develop a better understanding of policy issues related to homelessness and to educate communities of faith and conscience about these issues. The student will also play a key role in the development and implementation of initiatives to encourage concrete action on the part of these communities to contribute to solutions to homelessness.
The students’ tasks will include office work (such as phone and email outreach) as well as planning and participating in meetings/events. Some evening and weekend availability may be needed for outreach to community groups that meet at those times.
Qualifications: ability to work with people from a variety of faith and ethical backgrounds; commitment to the issue of homelessness; interest in public policy, advocacy and systemic change; excellent oral, written, interpersonal, and organizational skills; ability to take initiative and take the lead on a project; ability to balance multiple priorities; excellent critical thinking skills; and interest in reflection (for regular theological reflection sessions).
Commute/Transportation Information:
The student’s work will involve regular hours at the MHSA office as well as offsite meetings/events. The MHSA office is located near the Government Center, Haymarket and Bowdoin MBTA Stations. A driver’s license is preferred but not required (for outreach to communities outside Boston).
Arts of Ministry Competencies Offered:
- Administration and Program Development
- Public Leadership, Community Organizing, and Planning
Supervision:
The student will meet regularly with the supervisor for theological reflection. The student and supervisor will also meet regularly to discuss projects and next steps.
Additional Information:
- Number of Students: 1
- Total Compensation: $6000.00
- Type of Compensation: Work Study
- Additional Notes: The MHSA office is located at 7 Bulfinch Pl., Ste 201, Boston, MA 02114.