Do more good.
Producing the Americans of Conscience Checklist takes many kind and thoughtful people.
All our volunteers work both independently and within a team which provides autonomy and support. We’re efficient, respectful, kind, and a lot of fun.
[As AoCC volunteers] We’re attempting to build a country the US has never been. That inclusive, thriving nation can only exist if we make it happen.
~ Kay S., Research Team
What we’re seeking right now
Several of our Team Captains are requesting support in the following areas:
Social Media: Facebook Team
Affectionately called our “happy gnome farm”, this team shares the Checklist on dozens of active Facebook groups. Volunteers write a unique 2-3 sentence intro that invites people to view the Checklist and take action. It’s a great role for people who want to do a lot of good in a short amount of time.
Time commitment: 1-2 hours per week.
Social Media: Instagram and Twitter Teams
Our Insta and Twitter Teams create posts and stories that engage and inspire. If you’re creative, interested in the production and strategy of social media, and like to collaborate with an innovative team, do apply!
Time commitment: Approximately 4 hours per week.
Grafix Team
This team creates graphics for our social media accounts.
Graphics increase exposure and inspire people to take action. Grafix Team volunteers create 12-20 graphics per week in collaboration with the Social Media Team co-captains. We train you on our branding and style guide for a consistent look. Editing software provided.
Time commitment: 1-2 hours per week.
Voting Team
This team does deep-dive research into actions that strengthen American democracy and put ballots in more people’s hands. Democracy researchers may respond to headlines with actions and amplify non-partisan organizations.
Time commitment: 4-6 hours per month.
Research: Equality Team
This team researches actions that support equality for all, amplifying the good work of organizations advocating for the rights of religious minorities, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, disabled people, people in poverty, children, women, and more. Equality researchers use a thorough list of vetted resources to find actions that expand equality in our country.
Time commitment: 4-6 hours per month.
Research: Immigration Team
This team researches actions to protect the rights of immigrating people and families. We believe that aspiring Americans make our communities better. Immigration researchers explore the actions of grassroots organizations who seek to end inhumane policies and expand a spirit of welcome to diverse people.
Time commitment: 4-6 hours per month.
The process of becoming an AoCC volunteer
Applying: Please apply by August 30, 2023 using this online application. From there, Jen will contact you to set up an informal phone interview in early September.
Training: The goal of the AoCC trainings is for you to feel prepared and supported in your role as a volunteer. You’ll receive a 1.5-hour orientation to learn about the vision, mission, values, and strategies of the Americans of Conscience Checklist. You’ll also get an orientation to our team’s online workspace, Basecamp. Your second training (about one hour) is led by the captain of your specific volunteer team to train you on your specific tasks. From there, depending on your team, you’ll be paired with one or more of your teammates to co-work on tasks and answer questions as they arise.
Production schedule: In order to publish the AoC Checklist on the first and third Fridays, each volunteer is responsible for specific tasks and deadlines. Generally, research and writing are done every other week. Social media and Grafix are more consistent through the month.
Community: We connect using a private, secure online workspace called Basecamp. Your Team Captain is available there to answer your questions, a clear, weekly to-do list of volunteer tasks, and the opportunity to interact with your teammates. The community is warm, supportive, and collaborative.
Meetings: Jen hosts a Team Meet-up to talk about goals, updates, and celebrations. Topic-specific teams usually meet every 6-8 weeks by Zoom to check in about your team’s progress, strategies, and goals.
Life balance: All team members are entitled to 2-4 week sabbaticals on request and a team-wide sabbatical during the month of August.
What this is (and isn’t).
To be 100% clear, you’re applying for a volunteer position that offers no promise of future employment or compensation (beyond personal satisfaction). If selected as an AoCC volunteer, you’ll be working with a trained volunteer team captain and a professional (Jen) with extensive experience working with volunteer teams.
All tasks and expectations will be clearly and respectfully communicated to you. If misunderstandings arise, they will be resolved promptly and kindly. If you are in need of a referral or reference, you are welcome to request one after 6 months.
Benefits of volunteering
Here’s what some of the team had to say:
“I love volunteering with AoCC because I know my actions will have a direct multiplier effect. I know that when I put my time and effort in, more people will be able to take quick and effective action.”
~ Erica W., Social Media Team
“My volunteer work for the AoCC gives me strength and hope even as the news gets worse. A huge benefit is having a structure/container for my news consumption now. Plus, I have a supportive community of fellow volunteers to turn to before, during, and after that container time, which is so much better than just reading the news and then feeling hopeless and alone.”
~ Wendy C., Democracy Team
“I love volunteering for AoCC because it feeds my bias for action. Not only does it give me guides to action, but it also allows me to share those actions with many others. I have met and become inspired by the other awesome volunteers!”
~ Anne P., Facebook Team
“As an AoCC volunteer, I’m part of a community of like-minded people from all over the country and beyond. People, who once were strangers, are now friends doing good work together. We have built a family here, which includes all the people who use the checklist. When they send us thanks and appreciation, it cheers my heart and reminds me how worthwhile this work is!”
~ Nancy C., Twitter Team
“Volunteering with the AoC Checklist helps me to know there are quite a few people out there who feel the way I do. It makes me feel better to do something that counteracts all the awful things happening and knowing I’m not alone in taking action.”
~ Chanie B., Twitter Team
Who’s a good fit?
The people who enjoy volunteering at AoCC
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- Can balance collaboration with independent work
- Are comfortable working under a deadline
- Have a sense of humor
- Enjoy learning and teaching
- Value the AoCC’s kind, nonpartisan tone
- Are comfortable working online and with online tools and/or a willingness to learn
- Have a real-life support system and practice self-care
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Want to take the next steps?
If you want to help Americans take meaningful action, complete the AoCC volunteer application here.
Volunteering with AoCC might be a way to do more good and get connected. Please be in touch!