Application Guide

How to Apply for Regional Organizer (Grand Rapids)

at Workingfamilies

🏢 About Workingfamilies

The Working Families Party (WFP) is a grassroots political party fighting for racial, social, and economic justice. We are known for our innovative organizing and electoral strategies, and for building power for working families across the country. Joining WFP means being part of a dynamic, unionized team that is committed to transformative change.

About This Role

As a Regional Organizer in Grand Rapids, you will be at the forefront of building our movement in Michigan. You'll lead efforts to grow our membership, develop local leaders, and run electoral campaigns that can shift the balance of power. This role is perfect for someone who loves the nitty-gritty of organizing and is passionate about winning tangible victories for working families.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a virtual check-in with your team, followed by phone banking or virtual meetings with members and volunteers. You might spend the afternoon training a new leader or planning an upcoming event, and end the day with data entry and reporting. The work is dynamic, with a mix of direct contact, strategy, and administrative tasks.

🎯 Who Workingfamilies Is Looking For

  • A proven organizer with at least 2-3 years of experience in grassroots or electoral organizing, preferably in Michigan or the Midwest.
  • Skilled in building and maintaining relationships with diverse communities, including labor unions, community groups, and faith-based organizations.
  • Strategic thinker who can translate big-picture goals into actionable plans and has experience with voter contact and field campaigns.
  • Self-motivated and comfortable working remotely, with excellent communication and time management skills.
  • Commitment to racial, social, and economic justice, and an understanding of the political landscape in Michigan.

📝 Tips for Applying to Workingfamilies

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific organizing wins, such as voter contact numbers, membership growth, or leadership development.

2

In your cover letter, mention any experience you have with the Working Families Party or similar progressive organizations, and explain why you are aligned with our mission.

3

If you have experience with specific organizing tools (e.g., VAN, EveryAction, ThruText), be sure to mention them.

4

Since the role is remote, emphasize your ability to work independently and manage your own schedule effectively.

5

Show that you have local knowledge of Grand Rapids or Michigan politics, even if you are not from there, by referencing key issues or recent elections.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your passion for building political power for working families and your understanding of the challenges they face.', 'Specific examples of how you have successfully organized communities or run campaigns in the past, with measurable results.', 'Your ability to work remotely and self-motivate, while still being a team player.', 'Why you are specifically interested in the Grand Rapids region and how you would approach building relationships there.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Familiarize yourself with the Working Families Party's national platform and recent electoral victories.
  • Look into the specific issues affecting working families in Grand Rapids and Michigan, such as labor rights, housing, and healthcare.
  • Check out the WFP Michigan chapter's website and social media to see their current campaigns and priorities.
  • Research the political landscape of Grand Rapids, including key races and influential local organizations.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you had to adapt your organizing strategy in response to changing circumstances.
2 How would you go about identifying and developing new leaders in a community you're unfamiliar with?
3 What experience do you have with voter contact and field campaigns, and how do you ensure data accuracy?
4 How do you stay organized and motivated while working remotely?
5 What do you know about the Working Families Party's current campaigns in Michigan, and how would you contribute to them?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid being too generic in your application; show that you have done your homework on WFP and this role.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of remote work skills; make sure to demonstrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively from a distance.
  • Avoid focusing only on your own accomplishments without showing how you have worked with others to build collective power.

📅 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 Workingfamilies!