Application Guide

How to Apply for Congregational Coach (CONTRACT)

at Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ)

🏢 About Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ)

SURJ is a national organization uniquely focused on mobilizing white people to support racial and economic justice, aiming to build the white flank of multiracial majorities. Working here means being part of a movement that leverages privilege for systemic change, with a strong emphasis on community organizing and faith-based partnerships.

About This Role

As a Congregational Coach, you'll guide congregations through a nine-month program to counter Christian nationalism, training leadership teams in organizing strategies like one-on-one campaigns. This role directly impacts faith communities' capacity to resist divisive ideologies, combining coaching, facilitation, and strategic planning.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve a 30-minute coaching call with a congregational leadership team, followed by preparing for an upcoming cohort facilitation session. You might review one-on-one campaign progress, send resources to participants, and coordinate with SURJ staff on program logistics. Evenings could include virtual meetings or planning for the next Baltimore gathering.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ) Is Looking For

  • Experienced in coaching or facilitating groups, especially within congregations or community organizations, with a knack for developing leadership teams.
  • Skilled in one-on-one relational organizing and designing actionable plans, able to coach others in these methods.
  • Comfortable with remote work and travel, including commitment to monthly meetings, coaching calls, and two in-person gatherings in Baltimore.
  • Strong alignment with SURJ's mission of racial justice and understanding of Christian nationalism's dynamics.

📝 Tips for Applying to Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ)

1

Highlight specific experience coaching or facilitating faith-based groups, especially in social justice contexts.

2

Mention any familiarity with one-on-one campaigns or relational organizing, using concrete examples.

3

Demonstrate your ability to commit to the time requirements: monthly meetings, coaching calls, and Baltimore travel.

4

Show understanding of Christian nationalism and how congregations can counter it, referencing SURJ's approach.

5

Tailor your resume to emphasize coaching, facilitation, and organizing roles rather than general management.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your passion for racial justice and why you specifically want to work with SURJ.', 'Concrete examples of coaching or facilitating groups, especially in congregational settings.', 'Your understanding of Christian nationalism and strategies to counter it.', "Your availability and commitment to the contract's schedule, including travel to Baltimore."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read SURJ's website, especially their faith-based resources and statements on Christian nationalism.
  • → Look into SURJ's theory of change and how they engage white communities.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the concept of 'one-on-one campaigns' and relational organizing.
  • → Research recent news on Christian nationalism and its intersection with congregations.
Visit Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ)'s Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience coaching a team or group through a long-term program. What challenges did you face?
2 How would you approach a congregation that is resistant to discussing racial justice?
3 Explain your understanding of Christian nationalism and its impact on faith communities.
4 How do you balance providing support while empowering leaders to take ownership?
5 Tell us about a time you facilitated a difficult conversation around race or politics.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic answers about coaching without tying them to congregational or social justice contexts.
  • Don't underestimate the commitment; ensure you can handle the monthly meetings and travel.
  • Don't express a savior mentality; focus on empowering congregational leaders, not leading for them.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ)!

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