About the Position

Open New York, a pro-housing organization is seeking friendly, outgoing part-time canvassers to engage community members across the Westchester and Hudson Valley region, specifically around the Beacon and Poughkeepsie area. The primary goal of this role is to generate 25 signups per canvasser (or per shift team, as assigned). Canvassers will represent our organization, share key housing messages, and collect contact/sign-up information. The canvassing team will organize and execute events in key target areas and will directly support Open New York’s organizing staff during field recruitment. Please note canvassing activities will be non-political and will not be associated with a political campaign.

Responsibilities

• Outreach & Engagement: Organize and conduct door-to-door and high-foot-traffic area outreach near entrances, food venues, transit hubs and pre-existing events.
• Messaging & Engagement: Deliver clear, concise messaging to a variety of public audiences around housing affordability, rent increases, proposed developments, lease/moving challenges, first-time homebuyer resources, and available assistance programs.
• Data Collection: Per pre-established targets collect signups/contact information and enter data into the provided tracking system promptly and accurately.
• Community Insight & Recruitment: Proactively engage local communities, fielding concerns, answer basic questions, interest around ONY membership and escalate complex inquiries to supervisors.
• Maximizing Successful Canvassing: Prioritize canvassing during good weather and busy local events to maximize engagement and sign-ups.

Key Messages to Communicate While Canvassing

The core purpose of the outreach is to inform and connect community members with vital resources regarding:

• Rising rent and affordability concerns in the region.
• Common moving and lease challenges and where to find support.
• Assistance and resources for first-time homebuyers.
• Local programs and aid available to renters and prospective buyers.

Qualifications

• Comfortable with door-to-door and public-space outreach.
• Must based in or close to Hudson Valley or Westchester County
• Strong communication and active listening skills.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Basic smartphone skills for signup entry and navigation.
• Prior canvassing, outreach, or customer-facing experience preferred but not required.
• An interest and/or passion for social advocacy, housing, and affordability.
• A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle for daily use.
• Previous experience volunteering for or working on electoral or advocacy campaigns is a plus.
  

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: $22/hour
• Hours: 15 - 20 hours per week
• Duration: June 2026 - August 2026
• Expenses: Reimbursement for travel within assigned area (if applicable). At specified events meals can be provided / reimbursed (ONY staff will manage these events)
• Training: Full training provided on messaging, protocol, and the tracking system.