25-26 - Open Communities - Housing Action Corps

The Development and Communications Associate will serve with Open Communities in Evanston, IL from August 2025-2026. Open Communities is part of Housing Action Corps, an AmeriCorps VISTA program managed by Housing Action Illinois since 2010. Housing Action Corps members receive custom training, support, and networking opportunities in housing and community development, in addition to the traditional benefits of AmeriCorps VISTA. Learn more: housingactionil.org/americorps.

Open Communities¿ mission is to eradicate housing discrimination and unjust practices that perpetuate segregation and inequity. We foster thriving, inclusive communities through fair housing enforcement, housing counseling, education, outreach, and advocacy. Our Housing Counseling and Fair Housing programs annually serve more than 700 low-to-moderate income clients in Chicago¿s North Suburbs, the majority of whom are individuals of color. The Development and Communications Associate will strengthen our fundraising infrastructure and increase our communications capabilities to reach 100 more clients through our Housing Counseling and Fair Housing programs by the end of their AmeriCorps term.

Our ideal candidate has strong communication skills and attention to detail. They should be a confident writer and creative storyteller with a strengths-based view of the people and communities we serve. Comfort with social media platforms and experience with data management tools will be helpful. Ideal candidates will have creative design capabilities for content creation, communications materials, and press kits. A willingness to learn and collaborate with a team is a must. Candidates with lived experience relevant to our housing justice work are encouraged to apply. Bilingual abilities in English/Spanish are a plus. This position offers a $500 monthly stipend.