Credible Messenger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Center for New York City Affairs (CNYCA) at The New School is an applied policy research organization. The Center works where people's lives intersect with government and community organizations to illuminate the impact of public policy on the lives of individuals and communities. Our research focuses on what works, practical solutions, rigorous analysis, and provides real-time feedback for policymakers, providers, and communities. We have built a strong track record of creating change in the areas of education, child welfare, poverty, and juvenile justice.

The Institute for Transformative Mentoring (ITM) is a dynamic group of trainers focused on the development of credible messenger mentors (formerly incarcerated and system-impacted men and women) working in the social services fields throughout New York City. Credible messengers are gaining systems-level recognition in New York City as an effective strategy to reduce crime and criminal justice involvement. These mentors help young people navigate community violence and avoid the criminal justice system.

The Public Policy Fellowship is a five-month long fellowship for experienced credible messengers who have completed ITM's Transformative Mentoring course. Through a competitive application process graduates are selected to participate in the PPF where they share previous and/or current lessons learned and discuss their interest in shifting policy and practices impacting the work of credible messengers. Participating fellows meet weekly to study issues and policies associated with anti-gun violence strategies, learning about current policy initiatives and building relationships with other advocacy organizations and policymakers.

The Institute for Transformative Mentoring (ITM) Public Policy Fellow:

ITM's Public Policy Fellowship seeks highly motivated graduates of the Transformative Mentoring (NSBA 1500) course to serve as fellows for the 2026 Public Policy Fellowship. This year the Public Policy Fellowship will focus on strategies to reduce incarceration, prevent violence, and enhance community wellness at the policy level.

The ideal candidate is a graduate of the NSBA 1500 course, is knowledgeable of the harms and impact of gun violence, and is currently doing community work either through an organization or on their own. The mission is to cultivate a cohort of ITM alumni who will develop the knowledge, skills and ability to advocate for systematic changes. Elements in such advocacy include public policy research and analysis, community mobilization, and working with elected officials and partner organizations. This fellowship is meant to walk fellows through the advocacy process and build a toolbox of content and resources to support fellows in developing a plan of action for eliminating barriers to ending gun violence.

The position requires an openness to learn and a willingness to engage with the material on a critical level. Fellowship meetings take place in person once a week with interaction occurring via an online learning network on non-class days. In addition to regularly scheduled weekly meetings, fellows are expected to participate in community events and complete research as assignments. Fellows will leave with a successfully drafted policy proposals and advocacy strategies to share with colleagues and implement after the workshop.

The Public Policy Fellows will report directly to the ITM Director. This position is funded by and contingent upon external fundraising.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Attend and participate in community events focused on the 2026 Fellowship goals.

• Develop a group project and design draft policy and advocacy goals.

• Assist the Program Director with research needs focused on the 2026 Fellowship goals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working with credible messengers

• Experience working with court-involved individuals

• Knowledgeable about social services and other community resources

• Knowledgeable about gun violence and prevention policy.

• Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders including students, community partners, university staff and faculty, and others.

• Strong attention to detail and demonstrated ability to effectively multi-task.

• Graduate of the NSBA 1500 course.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledgeable about policy and practice impacting credible messengers.

• Familiarity with NYS and NYC advocacy.

• Keen interest in government and government policy.

WORK MODE

• This position is primarily in-person and is based on campus to support effective in-person collaboration and engagement.

• Hybrid work arrangements may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on the nature of the role and operational needs. Any such arrangement must be discussed and approved in advance by the appropriate division lead or their designee.

Hourly Rate: $25/hr

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, marital or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The New School recognizes and values the benefits of a diverse workforce.