Job summary: We are seeking a passionate canvasser and community organizer to help build power in Metro Vancouver's working-class communities. Canvassers will go door-to-door speaking with residents about ACORN campaigns to win policies that protect tenants, fight for climate justice, and strengthen democracy for our membership of working-class families.
This position is perfect for people who want to make concrete change in the world. You’ll gain hands-on organizing experience, and successful canvassers will have the opportunity to apply for a full-time Community Organizer position.
You’ll be trained in the fundamentals of direct outreach, having meaningful conversations at the doors, identifying community leaders, and signing up new members to support the campaign.
About ACORN
ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) Canada is a multi-issue, membership-based community union of low- and moderate-income people. We believe that social and economic justice can best be achieved by building community power for change. Each member has a vote, and only members speak for the organization and have the authority to set the policy and determine the tactics of each group.
Our local and national boards are elected directly from our membership.
We have a long and deep history of organizing in low- and moderate-income neighbourhoods, fighting and winning change through a variety of means – including doorknocking; petitioning; local, regional, and national meetings (both internal and public forums); and last but not least, peaceful direct actions – all building power in the process.
We have over 177,000 members organized into 31 neighbourhood chapters in 6 provinces across Canada. We have three levels of membership. Full members pay $15/month; associate members chip in what they can; provisional members join the vision of the organization. General community members wanting to participate are always invited to our community events!
Since 2004 we have won several important victories including payday lending legislation, raises in the minimum wage, lowering the NSF fee, lowering the interest rate of predatory loans, housing rights by-laws across the country, affordable internet program, disability rights and more.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Knock on doors in Metro Vancouver neighbourhoods to engage residents in one-on-one conversations–we are out organizing working-class communities rain or shine!
- Educate community members about ACORN campaigns
- Gather petition signatures
- Sign up new ACORN members and ask for contributions to support the campaign
- Attend training sessions, debriefs, and team meetings
Qualifications and Skills
- No previous experience required —all training provided
- Strong people skills; comfortable talking to strangers at the door
- Passionate about fairness, social justice, and community empowerment
- Self-motivated, reliable, and able to follow direction
- Able to listen, build rapport, and communicate clearly
- Multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply
Hours of Work
- Part-time: And ideal candidate can commit to be available for a minimum of 4 shifts a week
- Primarily weekday afternoon/evening shifts (2pm–8pm)
- 2-month contract, with possibility of extension. Successful canvassers will be invited to apply for a full-time Field Organizer position at the conclusion of the contract period.
- Full time field organizer salary is $44,000 after probation with health benefits, vacation and sick days
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Part-time hours: 30 per week
Pay: From $19.52 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Flexible schedule
Application question(s):
- MUST ANSWER: What is your availability? Please be specific.
- MUST ANSWER: Do you have past experience with door to door outreach? Please describe any relevant experience.
Work Location: In person
