Volunteer

A Faith That Does Justice is a volunteer program that depends upon the donations of the time, talent and treasure of its participants.

Opportunities Registration

Volunteering with A Faith That Does Justice

A Faith That Does Justice is a volunteer program that depends upon the donations of the time, talent and treasure of its participants.

Some volunteers offer their time as telephone callers who reach out to our diverse and growing community about our workshops, Community Meetings, and our English for Speakers of Other Languages ministry (ESOL). Some serve as office assistants, or as coordinators and greeters at these same events. And some participate as teachers in our ESOL ministry, or by publicizing our program to socially conscious groups in the Boston area.
Other volunteers offer talents that help drive the mission of A Faith That Does Justice. These include the input of financial consultants, program developers, accountants, and people from different walks of life who offer direction and insight into possible new avenues of growth for our program to consider.
Still other volunteers offer their treasure to support and expand our growing program. We need the financial assistance of people of good will as we reach out to more and more of the vulnerable people in our midst. Please know that as a predominantly volunteer organization we have minimal overhead expenses. Consequently, the majority of any offering you make will reach people in need. Just fill out the donation form and follow the user-friendly instructions to make your donation to our work. Alternatively, you may also send a donation by mail to A Faith That Does Justice at the address listed on this website.

Please consider offering some of your time, talent and treasure to the work we have begun. Those who have joined us in this important journey feel a sense of fulfillment and even ownership of the work we are doing on behalf of those in need. It is a beautiful transformation to experience and worthy of your consideration.

Thank you for your interest in A Faith That Does Justice. We hope to see you in the coming weeks and months working alongside us in this exciting venture. We all have something to offer, and together we can work for a justice in which all God’s people can experience the basic human dignity they deserve.

Peter W. Gyves, SJ, MD
Founder and Director

Registration Form

Volunteer Opportunities

Advancement Positions

Grants Specialist (~4 to 6 hours per grant, intermittent)

A Faith That Does Justice (AFTDJ) is an interfaith organization that challenges people to experience God by living their faith intentionally in service to others. We do this by showing how unjust societal structures marginalize people and by acting to help those in need. Our vision is people intentionally living their faith in action.

The Grants Specialist is responsible for researching and writing Letters of Interest and formal grant proposals. The Grants Specialist will work directly with the Director of Advancement. 

Duties include: 

Researching and collecting data to support the grant application

Writing high-quality grant proposal narratives

Managing the proposal submission process to ensure the timely submission of all required materials

GRANT RESEARCH AND APPLICATION COORDINATOR (4 to 8 hours/week)

The volunteer Grant Research and Application Coordinator plays a pivotal role in securing funding for AFTDJ by identifying and tracking grant opportunities, identifying key contacts at the potential funding agency, managing the grant application process, and ensuring compliance with funder requirements. This position is critical to supporting the ability of AFTDJ to achieve its mission through sustainable funding from Foundations. The Grant Research and Application Coordinator works directly with the Director of Advancement.

Key Responsibilities:

Research and Screen Grant Opportunities:

Conduct thorough research to identify potential grant funding opportunities that align with the mission of AFTDJ, its programs, and strategic goals.

Screen grant opportunities to assess eligibility criteria and the likelihood of success based on the activities and needs of AFTDJ.

Identify Key Contacts:

Research and identify relevant key contacts at potential funding organizations, including program officers and decision-makers.

Maintain and update a contact database for relevant funders to ensure smooth communication throughout the application process.

Develop and Monitor Application Timelines:

Create detailed timelines for each grant opportunity that track key dates and milestones, including deadlines for submission requirements, proposal drafts, and internal reviews.

Coordinate with relevant team members to ensure tasks are completed in a timely manner and that all materials are ready for submission by the deadline.

Track Recurring Applications:

Maintain an organized calendar of recurring grant opportunities, ensuring that AFTDJ is aware of upcoming submission deadlines for existing and prospective funders.

Regularly review and update timelines for recurring applications to ensure no opportunities are missed.

Monitor Compliance and Reporting Requirements:

Track and monitor all due dates for required reports, financial documentation, and other compliance-related tasks mandated by funders.

Coordinate with relevant staff to ensure all reporting obligations are met and submitted on time, keeping AFTDJ in good standing with funders.

Skills and Qualifications:

Strong research and analytical skills.

Excellent organizational and project management abilities.

Attention to detail and ability to track multiple deadlines simultaneously.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Proficiency in using databases, spreadsheets, and project management tools.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Time Commitment:

Flexible, with an estimated commitment of 4 to 8 hours per week, depending on the number of active grant opportunities.

This volunteer role offers a unique opportunity to support the growth and sustainability of AFTDJ by playing a key role in securing vital funding through grants.

Leadership Positions

Executive Director (16-20 hours per week)

Organization Overview: A Faith That Does Justice is an interfaith organization that challenges people to experience God by living their faith intentionally in service to others. We do this by showing how unjust societal structures marginalize people and by acting to help those in need. Inspired at its origins by Catholic teachings on social justice and commitment to uplifting the vulnerable, A Faith That Does Justice embraces a vision whereby people intentionally live out their faith by putting religiously grounded principles into action. We currently engage 32 volunteers, teach English to more than 100 ESOL students annually, and provide more than 70 Grab & Go meals each Tuesday to people experiencing food insecurity.

Role Overview: We are seeking a visionary, charismatic leader whose commitment to social justice flows naturally from their own values or faith tradition, and who inspires others to live our mission of putting faith into action. Reporting to the Board of Directors (6 volunteers), the Executive Director will guide our strategic direction, operational management, and programmatic efforts, and ensure our mission is fully realized with meaningful positive impact in our community.

Key Responsibilities:
● Engage with our community, including volunteers, donors, and those we serve.

○ Connect and engage with the diverse populations we serve, including ESOL students and teachers; grab & go meal recipients; and members of our weekly gathering for Spanish speakers.

○ Communicate our mission and vision to key stakeholders—donors, volunteers, community partners, and the media—in ways that inspire engagement and support, emphasizing the core principle of living a faith that does justice.
○ Collaborate with Director of Advancement to engage a wide donor network, through personal engagement with donors, building ‘brand awareness’, and fundraising events, both in person and virtually.
● Provide internal leadership and support.
○ Provide regular updates to, and work collaboratively with, the Board of Directors.
○ Collaborate with key operational volunteers, including the Directors of Operations and Finance and Accounting and other Directors to ensure our programs and day to day operations are executed with excellence.
○ Foster a positive environment and promote teamwork and collaboration, encouraging volunteers to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.

○ Ensure that our programs and activities align with our strategic plan and our mission and vision.
Qualifications:
● A deep personal commitment to our mission with a passion for social justice rooted in a faith-based perspective.
● Demonstrated experience in leadership roles, including persuasive communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skills.
● Experience in community engagement and working with underserved communities.
○ The ability to speak one or more of the languages we see most commonly among those we serve, including Spanish, Portuguese, or Haitian Creole, is desirable.
● A collaborative spirit, with the ability to work effectively with volunteers, the Board of Directors, donors, community partners, and other stakeholders.
● A strong faith background, of any tradition, that aligns with our vision of living faith in action.
Expectations:
● This is a part-time position, approximately 16-20 hours per week.
● This has been a non-salaried position, although compensation may be made available dependent on individual circumstances.
● Preference will be given to candidates located in Greater Boston. Equal Opportunity Statement: At AFTDJ, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal opportunities are available to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. For more information about AFTDJ, please visit our website here. You may submit your indication of interest in the role to Brighid Tella, Director of Volunteer Engagement, btella@faith-justice.org.

Community Engagement Positions

Phone caller (short assignments of 10 calls per week)

A Faith That Does Justice (AFTDJ) is an interfaith organization that challenges people to experience God by living their faith intentionally in service to others. We do this by showing how unjust societal structures marginalize people and by acting to help those in need. Our vision is people intentionally living their faith in action.

A phone caller for AFTDJ is asked to call our followers to connect with them, thank them for their participation, and ask for their feedback, and for their support. The calls made are to inform people about upcoming events and programs, to ask for their assistance in promoting those programs, to seek other volunteers, to seek assistance from collaborating organizations on a specific project, and to seek financial contributions from prospective donors.

On each assignment, a phone caller will utilize an AFTDJ script and talking points and a call list with contact information. We welcome multilingual callers.

The duties and responsibilities of a phone caller:

Delivering scripted talks that describe the purpose of the call
Being a good listener, having empathy, treating each call individually and focusing on the other party
Persuading the other party to act consistent with the purpose of the call
Explaining the AFTDJ mission and vision
Describing AFTDJ programs
Answering questions about AFTDJ or referring questions to others in AFTDJ
Obtaining the other party’s contact information such as name and address
Recording highlights of the interaction with other parties, results of the call and requests from the other party
Following up assigned calls that have not yet been completed

English for Speakers of Other Languages Positions

Assistant Director of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program (~ 6 to 12 hours per week)

A Faith That Does Justice (AFTDJ) is an interfaith organization that encourages people to live their faith intentionally in service to others. A core part of this mission is helping those
marginalized by societal structures, including people with limited English language skills. The ESOL Program provides individuals the opportunity to learn and improve their English skills, empowering them to access better job opportunities and engage more fully in their community.

Position Overview:
The Assistant Director of the ESOL Program supports the Director by managing key aspects of program operations, with a focus on community outreach, relationship building, and operational logistics. This role plays a vital part in ensuring the growth and smooth running of the program while building a network of supportive organizations and partners. The role is remote with occasional in person meetings with potential collaborators.

Key Responsibilities:
• Teacher and SRM Recruitment and Onboarding: Work with the Director of the ESOL program to recruit volunteer ESOL teachers and Student Relationship Managers (SRMs) Coordinate their onboarding process, including orientation, training, and ensuring they understand the program’s goals and approach.
• Prospective Student Recruitment: Design and implement strategies to recruit students for the ESOL program, working with community partners and utilizing various outreach methods to engage those who may benefit from the program.
• Communication and Supervision of SRMs: Oversee SRMs to ensure effective communication between students, teachers, and program leadership. Provide ongoing support and supervision to ensure a positive and productive learning environment.
• Student Registration and Onboarding: Manage the registration process for new students, ensuring accurate collection of necessary information and effective communication of class schedules, requirements, and expectations.
• Coordination with JVS (Program Partner): With the Director, work closely with Jewish Vocational Service (JVS) to ensure alignment on curriculum development, student progress, and teacher support, and to facilitate a productive partnership.
• Substitute Teacher Scheduling: Organize substitute teachers as needed to ensure continuity in instruction when regular teachers are unavailable.
The role may include the following responsibilities, to be undertaken in close collaboration with the Director of the ESOL program:
• Locating Venues for In-Person Classes: Identify and secure suitable locations for in person ESOL classes, ensuring they are accessible and equipped for learning.
• Building Relationships with Other ESOL Providers: Develop partnerships with other ESOL programs and organizations to foster collaboration, share resources, and ensure program alignment with the broader community’s needs.
• Building Relationships with Referral Organizations: Cultivate relationships with local community organizations, nonprofits, and social service providers to refer prospective students to the AFTDJ ESOL program.
Qualifications:
• A commitment to fostering a spirit of continuous learning, humility, and service, with a willingness to grow alongside the community being served.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in community outreach or program management, particularly in educational or nonprofit settings preferred.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with volunteers, particularly in recruiting and onboarding roles preferred.
• Knowledge of ESOL programs or adult education preferred, though not required.
• Location in the greater Boston area.
This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals seeking to improve their English language skills and enhance their participation in the workforce and broader community. The Assistant Director will play a key role in expanding the reach and effectiveness of the ESOL program within AFTDJ’s mission of service.

ESOL Teacher (~6 hours per week)

A Faith That Does Justice is an interfaith organization that challenges people to experience God by living their faith intentionally in service to others. We do this by showing how unjust societal structures marginalize people and by acting to help those in need. Our vision is people intentionally living their faith in action.

Why teach English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)? 

Use teaching to serve social justice and build your own teaching skills. Help adult learners in vulnerable populations develop the language skills needed to obtain employment and to live successfully in this country. Through its interfaith mission to foster meaningful relationships and build solidarity with immigrants, the ESOL program of A Faith That Does Justice creates an expanded community network for teacher assistants as well as students. 

Course Description

15 weeks long, two days of 2-hour sessions per week 
Approximately 10 students grouped by proficiency levels (Beginner & Intermediate) 
Classes are virtual using Zoom
Students are adults
Teacher are supported by ESOL Relationship Managers (mentors)

Teacher Commitment and Expectations 

Teach 1-3 sessions over a 12-month period 
Adapt provided curriculum to the needs of students 
Be present and prepared for all sessions
Be able to effectively to host a Zoom meeting and to use Zoom controls such as chat, screen sharing, break out rooms, etc.
(Training may be available to refresh or teach some technical skills.)

Is this right for me? 

Teachers should speak English as a native but do not need to be bilingual as classes are taught in English. While prior teaching experience is preferred, it is not required. We seek teachers who are patient, engaging and dedicated to the mission of empowerment through education. AFTDJ is an interfaith program; members of all faiths and beliefs are welcome as both students and teachers. 

Full Time Teacher vs. Substitute? 

A Full Time Teacher would be expected to teach class twice a week for a 12-week period. After being briefed on the lesson plan and expectations for the class, a Substitute Teacher would be expected to be able to step in for Full Time Teacher on short notice in cases where the Full Time Teacher is not able to make a class.  

Interested? Next Steps: 

For more information, visit www.faith-justice.org/education 
Apply at https://bit.ly/AFTDJvol and a member of our team will be in contact with you

ESOL Teacher Assistant (~6 hours per week)

Why teach English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)? 

Course Description

15 weeks long, two days of 2-hour sessions per week 
Approximately 10 students grouped by proficiency levels (Beginner & Intermediate) 
Classes are virtual using Zoom
Students are adults
Teacher Assistants are supported by ESOL Tutors and Student Relationship Managers (mentors)

Teacher Assistant Commitment and Expectations 

Assist the Teacher during 1-3 sessions over a 12-month period 
Adapt provided curriculum to the needs of students 
Be present and prepared for all sessions
Be able to effectively to host a Zoom meeting and to use Zoom controls such as chat, screen sharing, break out rooms, etc.
(Training may be available to refresh or teach some technical skills.)

Is this right for me? 

Teacher Assistants do not need to be bilingual as classes are taught in English, but the ability to speak Spanish is helpful. While prior teaching assistant experience is preferred, it is not required. We seek Teaching Assistants who are patient, engaging and dedicated to the mission of empowerment through education. AFTDJ is an interfaith program; members of all faiths and beliefs are welcome as both students and teachers. 

Full Time Teacher Assistant vs. Substitute Teacher Assistant? 

A Full Time Teacher Assistant would be expected to participate in class sessions twice a week for a 15-week period. A Substitute Teacher Assistant would be expected to be able to step in for Full Time Teacher Assistant on short notice in cases where the Full Time Teacher Assistant is not able to make a class.  

Interested? Next Steps: 

For more information, visit www.faith-justice.org/education 
Apply at https://bit.ly/AFTDJvol and a member of our team will be in contact with you

ESOL Student Relationship Manager (~ 2 to 4 hours per week)

The Student Relationship Manager (SRM) is a mentor to a small number of prospective, current, and former adult English Language Learners. While they have no teaching or tutoring responsibilities, SRMs mentor and support students so they get the most benefit possible from participation in the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program of A Faith That Does Justice. Doing so requires SRMs to have frequent engagement with students, teachers, and tutors. The SRM must have strong interpersonal skills and speak English and one of the many primary languages of our students, including Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, French, Russian, Arabic, Romanian, Turkish, Cape Verdean Creole, Haitian Creole, Swahili, Congolese, and others, preferably as a native.

Duties include:

Frequent engagement by email, text, and phone calls with each student to provide recognition of their efforts and acknowledge the challenges of learning a new language.
Encourage active and on-going attendance and follow up with any student who is absent to offer genuine concern, help, and support in an “all out” effort to enable the students to obtain the best from the program.
Surveys students on class content and value to the student
Identify health and social services needed by a student and work with the Director of the ESOL Program to refer the student to organizations providing the needed the services.
Periodically meet with the Lead SRM to discuss overall student needs and resources available to them.
Provide “light weight” technical support to any student needing assistance with accessing or downloading apps required for class.
Recruit new ESOL students.
Maintain contact with former ESOL students and monitor their progress.
Encourage students to actively participate in AFTDJ Community Meetings and Workshops
Support AFTDJ public communications by relating non confidential student experiences and stories in support of the program.

Marketing & Communications Positions

Technology Positions

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