In its initiative, Reconnecting Opportunity Youth, the Cowen Institute seeks to examine and address the issues that cause too many young people in New Orleans to disassociate from public infrastructure that support educational, economic, and social wellbeing. Disconnected Youth are young adults aged 16-24 who are neither in school nor working and are sometimes referred to as Opportunity Youth because of their potential value to our communities and economies. Nationwide, 6.7 million (or 17%) young people aged 16-24 are estimated to be disconnected, at the cost of $93 billion annually. In the New Orleans metro area, between 12,195 and 15,781 low-income youth aged 16-24 are considered Opportunity Youth, at the cost of between $170 million and $220 million annually. Unemployment of young people is at a historic high and communities across the country are in search of solutions that will truly move the needle.

JOB SUMMARY:

The research assistant role is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about analyzing and addressing systemic societal issues – including education, youth development, workforce development, and public health – and who is seeking an opportunity to build relationships with stakeholders involved in addressing these issues. This person will conduct qualitative research to create a landscape analysis of the existing organizations in New Orleans that provide services to Opportunity Youth, and assess where gaps may exist in service provision. S/he will also co-author a white paper that illustrates the issue in New Orleans, and establishes an action plan that will guide our youth out of poverty, prison, and other inhibiting circumstances. Lastly, s/he will assist in the planning and execution of a city-wide, multi-sector collaborative designed to inspire and initiate systemic change.

NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS:

• A commitment to the Cowen Institute’s mission to achieve equitable access to high-quality public education.
• Currently enrolled in a graduate-level program in a field related to youth development, economic development, and/or public health.
• Strong qualitative research experience.
• Outstanding organizational skills and high attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and writing skills.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Co-conduct assets mapping of Opportunity Youth service providers in New Orleans.
• Co-author white paper on Opportunity Youth in New Orleans.
• Assist with planning and launching of local collective impact taskforce.

OTHER DETAILS:

• Duration: June 1st to August 24th, 2012
• Hourly wage: $20 per hour for 20 hours per week (approximately $4800 total for the Summer)

If interested, please email your resume to Amy Barad at abarad@tulane.edu by Monday May 21, 2012.