Obama Organizing Fellows

Get Involved!


Deadline - May 5

Do you want to become a part of a new generation of leadership, and help get Sen. Barack Obama elected as president at the same time? If the answer is yes, then perhaps the Obama Organizing Fellows program is for you.

The Obama campaign this summer is looking for students and recent graduates who share the senator’s belief that real change comes from the ground up.

Applications are due by midnight Monday, May 5th, Eastern Time. Go to Barackobama.com and click on Obama Organizing Fellows in the middle of the page for the application and details.

Fellows will be trained on the basics of organizing, and campaign fundamentals. They also will be asked to commit to at least 30 hours weekly.

Specifically, Fellows will be trained in field organizing, messaging and other activities; organize in a community, working alongside grassroots leaders and campaign staff; and continue to build the movement. Fellows will coordinate voter registration drives, organize phone banks, plan canvasses, and help with campaign events.

Organizing Fellows might work out of a campaign office or directly in the community, but will always be working with campaign staffers and local Obama volunteer groups.

Although this is an unpaid position, Fellows can expect the self-satisfaction that comes from “reviving democracy in communities across the country,” as Obama put it in a Web site video. (Fellows who demonstrate exceptional organizing skills and want to continue working with the campaign also get first dibs on paid positions in the fall).

The Democratic presidential candidate also spoke of his experience as a youthful organizer on Chicago’s south side.

“I was looking for an opportunity to work with people to help them realize their power to make change in their own community. People came together to solve problems together.”

“It was the transformative experience of my career.”

Likewise, the fellowship experience, Obama said, would be intensive, rewarding and exciting. “And you will have a concrete impact on this election too,” Obama added.

The application asks for a resume, among other things, so make sure yours is updated, polished and ready to go. It also asks for three references. People with whom you have worked, professors with whom you have close relationships, or anyone else whom can speak to your skills as an organizer would make good references.

Applicants must also answer three questions essay-style about their motivation, any experience they may have as a political or community organizer, and why they wish to be involved in Obama’s campaign.

Stipends for food, transportation and shelter are not available, although some campaign supporters may provide housing near training and organizing sites. Some Fellows could receive training in their own communities.

The Fellows program is for college students and graduates who can commit to summer work. Fellows may have other jobs during the summer as long as they do not conflict with their fellowship work.

If you are a college student and your school lets out shortly after June 5, you may still be eligible. It will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

It is also possible that you can get college credit for your work as an Obama Fellow. Check with your college or university.


REQUIREMENTS

The program is available to U.S. citizens only. Applicants should hear from the campaign during the month of May. Program participation will begin on June 5 and run through the end of the summer.

This may be your chance to make a difference, and help Obama make history!
 

http://www.Barackobama.com  (Click on Organizing Fellows in center changing screen)