Host: Association of Bay Area Governments Metropolitan Transportation Commission
Region: Bay Area
Openings: 1
Project Focus: Affordable Housing, Transportation / Mobility, Urban Planning
Skills Needed: Facilitation, Project Management, Data Analysis, Environmental Justice, Communication, Self-Motivated

Service Needs & Plans

CivicSpark Fellow will help the newly formed Access(ibility), Culture, and Racial Equity (ACRE) team in the rollout of our agency-wide equity strategic plan. A unique opportunity to join a team at the ground level as we embark on strategies to advance equity across the Bay Area.

More specifically, the fellow will work on a new economic development initiative for the Bay Area. By securing funding for economic development and workforce initiatives, the project aims to promote economic growth, reduce unemployment, and enhance the overall resilience of the agency’s communities. The project also seeks to address the unequal impacts of economic disruption on vulnerable populations, such as low-income households and communities of color. By increasing access to economic opportunities and workforce development programs, the project aims to build community resilience by creating more equitable economic outcomes. Additionally, the project may support the development of new industries and sectors that can provide alternative sources of income and employment in the face of future disruptions or crises. Overall, the project aligns with the agency’s goal of promoting resilience by enhancing economic stability and job creation in its communities.

Project Description

One project will be conducting a review of the agency’s policies and practices related to economic development and recommend approaches to leverage federal grant opportunities to promote workforce development.

Overarching goals of the project:
The goal of this project is to secure funding for economic development and workforce initiatives within the agency’s jurisdiction. The project aims to identify grant opportunities, develop grant proposals, and secure funding to support the agency’s economic development and workforce goals. The overarching goal is to enhance economic growth and promote job creation in the agency’s communities.

Role of the Fellow in the project:
The Fellow will work closely with the agency’s economic development and workforce teams to identify grant opportunities, develop grant proposals, and submit applications. The Fellow will also be responsible for conducting research on grant requirements, drafting proposals, and coordinating with partners to gather the necessary information for proposals. The Fellow will also help to develop and maintain relationships with funding agencies and other partners.

Desired project outcomes in terms of resources developed:
The desired outcomes of this project are successful grant applications and secured funding for economic development and workforce initiatives. The resources developed will include grant proposals, budgets, and work plans. The project may also result in new partnerships and networks that can support the agency’s economic development and workforce goals.

How these resources will help increase the agency’s capacity to address the resilience challenges you described in the previous section:
By securing funding for economic development and workforce initiatives, the agency will be better equipped to address resilience challenges in its communities. The resources developed through this project will provide the agency with the financial and organizational capacity to implement programs and initiatives that can support economic growth and job creation. The grant funding may also enable the agency to leverage additional resources and partnerships, which can enhance its capacity to address resilience challenges in the long term.

Desired Skills

Strong communication skills: Fellows should be able to communicate effectively and professionally with colleagues, stakeholders, and community members.

Ability to work collaboratively: Fellows will work closely with colleagues and community partners, so it is important to be able to work well in a team environment.

Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion: Fellows should have a demonstrated commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in their work.

Analytical and problem-solving skills: Fellows should be able to analyze complex issues and develop effective solutions.

Flexibility and adaptability: Fellows should be able to adapt to changing circumstances and be willing to take on new challenges.

Time management and organizational skills: Fellows will need to manage multiple projects and deadlines, so strong time management and organizational skills are essential.

Passion for social impact: Fellows should be motivated by a desire to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

Organization & Community Highlights

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) is a public agency responsible for transportation planning and funding in the San Francisco Bay Area. The agency is committed to promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in its operations and decision-making processes. MTC’s commitment to these values is reflected in its hiring practices, employee training programs, and community outreach efforts.

Serving with MTC could be a good professional development experience for individuals interested in transportation planning, public policy, and community development. MTC offers a supportive and collaborative work environment that encourages innovation and creativity. Employees have access to professional development opportunities, such as training programs, mentoring, and leadership development.

San Francisco Bay Area is a diverse and dynamic region known for its cultural vibrancy, natural beauty, and technological innovation. The Bay Area is home to world-class museums, galleries, and performance venues, as well as a thriving food and beverage scene. The region also boasts numerous parks and recreational areas, such as Golden Gate Park and Point Reyes National Seashore. The Bay Area is also a hub for technology and innovation, with many opportunities for networking and career advancement.

Remote or On-Site Placement

Hybrid or On-site preferred, Remote possible