Statewide Pro bono Lobbyist

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The Earthly Advocate, Inc. (TEA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Maryland, serving communities across Michigan and the Washington, D.C.–Maryland–Virginia (DMV) region. The governing body of the organization is a six-member Board of Directors elected every three years.

The Earthly Advocate integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and environmental literacy to equip residents, youth, and grassroots organizers with data-driven tools to identify and address environmental inequities. Through initiatives such as the Mapping for Environmental Justice workshops, youth GIS summer camps, and environmental literacy outreach programs, the organization promotes accessible scientific education and fosters locally led solutions to issues such as air quality, pollution, and climate resilience.

In addition to education and outreach, The Earthly Advocate conducts applied environmental research focused on advancing community-scale air quality monitoring and the use of emerging geospatial technologies for environmental justice. These research initiatives not only contribute to the scientific understanding of environmental change but also translate into practical, publicly accessible data tools that empower communities to advocate for policy and health interventions based on evidence.

Role Description

TEA seeks to retain the services of a pro bono lobbyist from a qualified professional or firm with expertise in state government (Michigan and/or Maryland) earmarks and appropriations, particularly those that direct funding toward community-based environmental and educational initiatives. This is a remote role.

Responsibilities

• Identify federal earmark opportunities relevant to environmental justice, education, and workforce development.
• Build relationships with key state agencies and legislative committees.
• Position our programs, such as youth GIS camps, Mapping for Environmental Justice workshops, and literacy outreach for future funding inclusion.
• Develop a sustainable earmark and appropriations engagement plan that can support ongoing community organizing efforts in Michigan, Maryland, and the D.C. metropolitan area.

Proposal and Submission Requirements

The proposal must contain the following components in a single PDF file:

• A brief cover letter expressing interest in the pro bono engagement.
• Summary of relevant experience and past projects (especially community-focused).
• Proposed timeline or availability.
• References or examples of previous advocacy successes (if applicable).

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with statewide appropriations or earmark processes.
• Proven success in community-based or environmental justice funding initiatives.
• Established relationships with bicameral state agencies and legislative staff or relevant committees (Environment, Education, Appropriations).
• Commitment to equity, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
• Experience with pro bono or nonprofit advocacy partnerships is strongly preferred.

Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process

TEA reserves the right to award Contract(s) solely on the written proposal. TEA also reserves the right to request oral or in person interviews with any lobbying firm submitting a proposal.

The final selection will be made by the TEA at its sole discretion.

Selection Criteria

• Relevant experience with federal funding and environmental justice issues.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity and community-driven outcomes.
• Feasibility of proposed support timeline.
• References and past success in similar efforts.

Contract Terms

• Term: January 2026 – January 2027, with the option for renewal upon mutual agreement. (The term aligns with the start of the 448th and 103rd State Legislative Session for Maryland and Michigan, respectively).
• Independent Contractor Status: The consultant will operate as an independent contractor and not as an employee of TEA.
• Confidentiality Obligations: The consultant will maintain the confidentiality of all nonpublic information received during the course of the engagement.
• Conflict of Interest: The consultant must avoid any actual or potential conflicts of interest and promptly disclose any that arise during the contract period.
• Compliance: The consultant will comply with all applicable state and federal lobbying laws and disclosure requirements.
• Termination: Either party may terminate the agreement with 30 days’ written notice upon mutual consent or for cause.

Submission Deadline

Signed and notarized proposals must be received by TEA prior to 5:00 PM, December 21, 2025 . Proposals shall be e‑mailed, mailed or delivered to:

Address

The Earthly Advocate
8507 Oxon Hill RD STE 200/1130
Fort Washington MD 20744

Or by email to:
View email address on us.fitly.work

cc: Aishah Johnson, Governance Board

Senior Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Contract

Job Function

Other