Community Organizer

Organization: Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants (LORI) Position Title: Community Organizer Reports to: Civic and Organizing Manager Employment Type: Flexible full-time or part-time (up to 30 hours per week) Hourly Wage: $20 per hour Employment Status: At-will, non-exempt Mission LORI is a growing non-profit dedicated to uplifting the voices of refugees, immigrants and their families in Louisiana. We work to empower individuals through civic engagement, leadership development, education, and advocacy. Our team collaborates with local communities to advocate for policies, programs and resources that promote justice, equity and inclusion. Position Summary The Community Organizer will strengthen relationships between the organization, local residents, businesses and community partners. The person in this role engages diverse communities – particularly underrepresented populations – through sustained outreach, volunteer recruitment, campaign development and leadership-building efforts. The Community Organizer will work closely with LORI’s Civic and Organizing Manager and other staff to support program development, community education, advocacy campaigns and grassroots participation. Success in this role depends on creativity, persistence and a genuine passion for bringing people together around shared goals. Roles and Responsibilities Community engagement, outreach and base building (≈60%)  Engage immigrant, refugee and ally communities in Louisiana to identify concerns, build relationships and ensure the voices of historically underrepresented populations are reflected in LORI’s programs and advocacy.  Design and implement outreach strategies to connect with businesses, community members and organizations across neighborhoods, including canvassing, flyering, tabling at events and one-on-one outreach.  Maintain volunteer and member databases; track participation and follow up with volunteers to sustain engagement.  Recruit, train and support volunteers and emerging leaders for LORI programs, campaigns and events.  Foster positive relationships with partner organizations, block clubs and neighborhood leaders; serve as LORI’s point person for community events and meetings.  Promote a welcoming, inclusive environment for all participants, ensuring language and cultural needs are met. Campaign and program development (≈25%)  Facilitate community meetings, listening sessions and forums to identify issues, set priorities and develop community-led solutions.  Coordinate grassroots campaigns around civic engagement, public policy, racial justice, language access, and other issues affecting refugee and immigrant communities.  Work with the Civic and Organizing Manager and community leaders to develop clear campaign plans, goals and timelines.  Support the creation of educational and advocacy materials and work collaboratively with LORI’s communications team to share messages effectively. Leadership development, events and actions coordination (≈15%)  Organize and facilitate training workshops to build leadership and advocacy skills among refugees and immigrants.  Assist with coordinating community forums, cultural events, legal clinics and educational sessions to mobilize participation.  Recruit and coordinate volunteers for LORI events, ensuring responsibilities are clear and volunteers receive support.  Collaborate with program staff to implement LORI’s youth and community programs, such as Learn to Lead and Civic Engagement initiatives. Administrative and organizational support (≈5%)  Attend weekly staff meetings and community engagement team meetings.  Contribute to grant reporting, data entry, meeting minutes and other documentation tasks.  Assist with social media posts, flyers and communications materials promoting outreach and recruitment.  Other duties as assigned by the Civic and Organizing Manager or Executive Director. Required Qualifications  1–3 years of community organizing, outreach or related experience (paid or volunteer).  Experience working with diverse communities and a demonstrated commitment to racial justice, equity and inclusion.  Ability to recruit, train and support volunteers and emerging leaders.  Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to facilitate meetings, present to groups and build lasting relationships.  Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.  Experience with data entry and database management.  Proficiency with basic office software (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office).  Bilingual or multilingual abilities (English plus Somali, Spanish, French, Arabic or other languages common in our immigrant communities) are highly desired.  Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends. Personal Characteristics  Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team.  Organized, detail-oriented and adaptable to changing circumstances.  Creative problem-solver and enthusiastic communicator.  Comfortable navigating unfamiliar situations and learning on the go.  Committed to LORI’s mission and passionate about promoting immigrant and refugee rights. Working Conditions and Benefits This position is based in Louisiana with a hybrid schedule. Applicants must be able to travel within the community for meetings and outreach activities. Work hours are flexible; some evening and weekend hours are required based on community events and campaign needs. The position is compensated at $20 per hour, up to 30 hours per week. As a part-time role, benefits may be limited; details will be discussed during the hiring process. About LORI LORI (Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants) is a growing nonprofit dedicated to serving refugees, immigrants and their families. We advocate for equitable policies, support community development and provide civic education and legal assistance. Our work is grounded in the belief that newcomers enrich our state and that all residents, regardless of origin, deserve opportunities to thrive. For more information about our programs and impact, visit our website or follow us on social media. Flexible work from home options available. Compensation: $20.00 per hour About LORI Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants (LORI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping refugees and immigrants achieve self-sufficiency by providing them access to critical services and support. At LORI, we promote diversity and inclusion, fight for humane immigration policies, and expand capacities around immigration legal services, policy advocacy, educational access, and community engagement. Since 2002, the Baton Rouge location resettled 1,500 refugees in the local area with the common origin countries including Burma, Iraq, and Somalia. LORI (Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants) acknowledges the gap of services and establishes an organization by refugees and immigrants alike to serve the needs of refugees and immigrants in Baton Rouge and Louisiana at large. Mission To assist refugees and immigrants throughout their various stages of integration in Louisiana and other states, enabling them to become self-reliant. Vision Seeking to promote the socio-economic and well-being of all Refugees and Immigrants living in Louisiana, the United States, and the world at large.