Community Policy & Advocacy Specialist

Position Summary

The Community Policy & Advocacy Specialist serves as a key regional representative of Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM) within the organization's service area.

This role supports public policy initiatives and community-based advocacy efforts by building relationships with local elected officials, community leaders, and organizations to strengthen advocacy capacity, co-create policy solutions, and increase engagement around health equity and non-medical drivers of health.

Working collaboratively with the Policy & Advocacy Department, the Specialist identifies local and regional challenges, conducts research to inform policy priorities, and serves as a connector between MHM, community stakeholders, and decision-makers.

The position requires strong communication, relationship-building, and analytical skills to effectively advance policy and advocacy initiatives aligned with MHM's mission.

Scope and Impact

This position plays a critical role in advancing MHM's local and regional public policy and advocacy strategy by elevating community voices and translating local insights into actionable policy recommendations.

Through strategic engagement and research, the Specialist strengthens community partnerships and supports equitable policy solutions that improve access to care and address systemic barriers to health.

Decision-Making Authority

Operates under general supervision, exercising discretion and sound judgment in managing community relationships, organizing advocacy activities, and identifying local issues that impact policy priorities.

Provides input on policy recommendations and local engagement strategies.

Interactions / Working Relationships

The Specialist interacts regularly with local elected officials, councils of government, community-based organizations, faith leaders, schools, nonprofits, and internal MHM teams.

Collaborates with the Policy & Advocacy Department to ensure alignment of local activities with regional and state-level priorities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities


* Serve as a regional liaison for MHM's policy and advocacy initiatives, strengthening relationships with community-based organizations, coalitions, and local leaders.


* Engage local councils of government and community organizations to assess regional needs and identify barriers to health and access to care.


* Support the implementation of advocacy programs, including training sessions and grassroots mobilization efforts.


* Represent MHM and the needs of local communities in forums, public meetings, and collaborative networks.


* Build and maintain relationships with local elected officials, serving as a trusted resource to champion public policy initiatives aligned with MHM priorities.


* Support bold local initiatives through advocacy, coordination, and resource development to advance identified policy goals.


* Convene partners and stakeholders in community forums to promote dialogue and visibil...