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  • What is Senate Bill 10 | FAQ | All About Housing | Our Time To Act

    SENATE BILL 10 WHAT IS SB 10? SB 10 is a pro-housing policy that cities can choose to opt in to in order to help advance housing development for their residents. It allows a single large plot of land that currently only has one housing unit to be split, in order to allow for up to ten residential/housing units in “transit rich” or “urban infill” areas. In addition to allowing for more homes to be built in these areas, SB 10 also provides housing faster by changing the environmental review process to prevent unnecessary delays that currently occur under the existing law. WHAT COUNTS AS "TRANSIT RICH" OR "URBAN INFILL" AREAS? Because SB 10 is an opt-in bill, if a city chooses to adopt it, they also can choose how to define these areas. In San Diego, transit rich is defined as “within a 1-mile walk to transit.” Urban infill areas can be thought of as developed areas with room to spare. These areas have the capacity for further development and the existing infrastructure to support it. For more information on urban infill, you can also check out the Southern California Association of Governments’ definition and FAQ . HOW DOES SB 10 CHANGE THE ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS AND WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT? SB 10 does not get rid of all environmental reviews. Instead, the bill changes the process so that development is not delayed by trivial lawsuits with anti-housing intentions. Under the current law, the well-intentioned, but long-since overly bureaucratic, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Under CEQA, anti-housing advocates in Berkeley, California sued to stop development because of a potential “environmental threat” that had not been considered. What was the potential environmental threat, those suing under CEQA claimed, the city had “failed to assess?” “Potential noise impacts from loud student parties.” Unfortunately, this “get off my lawn,” “not in my backyard” sentiment permeated the courts as well, and the housing development was blocked. Clearly, this process must change in order for development to occur effectively. Additionally, the process of developing infill in transit rich areas encourages more sustainable lifestyles for new residents. ARE THERE ANY EXCEPTIONS TO WHERE SB 10 CAN BE IMPLEMENTED? Yes. Certain exceptions apply. Areas with severe fire risk, historic designation, or land that has been locally designated for open space for example would not be eligible for lot splitting under SB 10. ARE THERE RESTRICTIONS TO THE SCOPE OF PROJECTS UNDER SB 10? Yes. The project must still meet local building requirements, and may not exceed 3 stories. Without SB 10, areas zoned for only “single family homes” only one housing unit can be developed for every 5,000 sq feet of land. SB 10 allows for more units to be developed on this large plot if the landowner so chooses. Additionally, the key wording in SB 10 is “up to 10 units.” Only one unit can be built for every 1,000 sq ft of the parcel, which means this bill does not allow for cramped, or unrealistic housing units to be developed on a small amount of land. Larger parcels of land can fit the maximum number of units. ARE THERE REQUIREMENTS THAT UNITS BUILT BE AFFORDABLE? While there is no requirement in the bill's language that units be made affordable, Mayor Gloria’s version of the bill would require at least one unit in every parcel that uses SB 10 be made affordable. Additionally, we live in San Diego, land is expensive. If you are forced to purchase more land than necessary to build a house, it will increase the overall cost of the home developed. By decreasing the amount of land required to construct homes, you create the potential for automatically more affordable homes. Furthermore, the addition of more housing supply in the city will put downward pressure on rents and home prices across the region. Economic research shows cities and communities that allow more housing see lower increases in their housing costs compared to cities that do not allow enough housing to be constructed. The city of Auckland, New Zealand for example enacted policies with effects similar to that of SB 10s to promote more housing. Relative to other cities with restrictive housing policies, their rents are up to 35% lower for family housing. HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION? Ask away! We are more than happy to provide more information. Send an email to Nicole Lillie, our Housing Project Director. nicole.lillie@ottaunited.org

  • Assistant Director of Research

    < Back to Open Positions Assistant Director of Research Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Assistant Director of Research works to further our organization's scientific understanding of youth empowerment and development. By proposing and answering applicable and tangible research questions, Our Time to Act United can improve our approach, methodology, and actions to further our impact on youth. REQUIREMENTS Prior academic experience required. Preferred in the fields of psychology, sociology, education, political science, or related subjects. Demonstrates ability to identify research questions and strong project management. Undergraduate or beyond. Exceptions for exceptional candidates can be made. Highly flexible hours. Meetings dependent on research schedule. Values cooperation, creativity, growth-mindset. Exhibits organization, diligence, and dedication. Passion for youth empowerment. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION While pursuing our mission of youth empowerment, Our Time to Act United understands the importance of fostering a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all. As such, the actions we take align with our values as an organization and as individuals. We value meaningful impact. We always seek to genuinely support those that we serve and the people within our organization. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization is growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow for us to be a cooperative, productive, and effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you in order to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our organization, values, workplace environment, or the application process. APPLY

  • Selena-Marie Espinoza

    Selena-Marie Espinoza (she/her) is a dedicated San Diegan and Global Health major from the University of California - San Diego, committed to fostering healthier, more inclusive communities. Guided by the principle to “leave things better than how they were found,” she serves as Lead Organizer for Civic Youth Action Engagement, where she spearheads a campaign against price gouging to support low-income families and vulnerable communities. Passionate about building lasting change, Selena-Marie believes that vibrant, resilient communities aren’t just created—they are cultivated through intentional advocacy and care. With aspirations to advance her impact as a public health researcher and advocate, she is focused on achieving health equity as a reality for all. In her free time, she enjoys connecting with family and friends, always drawing inspiration from her San Diego roots. < Back Selena-Marie Espinoza CYAN Lead Organizer Selena-Marie Espinoza (she/her) is a dedicated San Diegan and Global Health major from the University of California - San Diego, committed to fostering healthier, more inclusive communities. Guided by the principle to “leave things better than how they were found,” she serves as Lead Organizer for Civic Youth Action Engagement, where she spearheads a campaign against price gouging to support low-income families and vulnerable communities. Passionate about building lasting change, Selena-Marie believes that vibrant, resilient communities aren’t just created—they are cultivated through intentional advocacy and care. With aspirations to advance her impact as a public health researcher and advocate, she is focused on achieving health equity as a reality for all. In her free time, she enjoys connecting with family and friends, always drawing inspiration from her San Diego roots. selena.espinoza@ourtimetoact.org

  • Local Leaders Program Manager

    < Back to Open Positions Local Leaders Program Manager Volunteer South Bay Area APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE Program Managers oversee the establishment of our Local Leaders program across various schools in the South Bay Area. Responsibilities include conducting site research to determine if the Local Leaders program is a good fit for it, securing funding sources, recruiting site coordinators, and developing the Local Leaders curriculum. REQUIREMENTS No prior experience required. Demonstrates adequate research and planning skills. High school student or beyond. 6-8 hours, 1-2 meetings a week. Our scheduling is highly flexible. Values cooperation, creativity, growth-mindset. Exhibits organization, diligence, and dedication. Passion for youth empowerment. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION While pursuing our mission of youth empowerment, Our Time to Act United understands the importance of fostering a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all. As such, the actions we take align with our values as an organization and as individuals. We value meaningful impact. We always seek to genuinely support those that we serve and the people within our organization. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization is growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow for us to be a cooperative, productive, and effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you in order to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our organization, values, workplace environment, or the application process. APPLY

  • Graphic Design Intern

    < Back to Open Positions Graphic Design Intern Intern (Volunteer) San Diego and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before May 31st. ABOUT THE ROLE We are seeking a passionate and motivated Graphic Design intern to join our Communications team. This is a great opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands on experience and mentorship. Position responsibilities include to: Collaborate with the Communication’s team to curate printed and digital promotional materials for campaigns and projects (such as posters, presentations, and brochures) while following brand guidelines Design visual content and posts for social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn, research graphic design topics and case studies Assist in creating and managing content for the website (no coding experience or knowledge required) Attend Communication and staff meetings Further duties as assigned REQUIREMENTS A portfolio or a series of work showcasing skills in design and layout Proficient in Canva (Adobe Creative Suite is a plus) Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines Attention to detail and ability to balance multiple projects at once Able to work both independently and as part of a team ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION OTTA United is a youth-founded, youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. OTTA United values authenticity and passion. We play the role of coalition builders and mentors within our communities, sharing knowledge, resources, credit, and impact. And as a justice-oriented, impact-driven, and people-centered organization, our perspective grounds us with who we serve and the work we do while advancing our mission. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Here are some things to keep in mind: Our team values flexibility and taking initiative over structure and top-down delegation. This philosophy is not a good fit for all, so we want to be clear upfront. If you thrive in dynamic, open environments, this is the place for you. We value meaningful impact and support. We seek to authentically serve both our audience and our team members alike. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization are growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve, at all levels of our organization! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow us to be an effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. We prefer personability over professionalism, at least in internal settings. APPLY

  • Executive Assistant

    < Back to Open Positions Executive Assistant Volunteer San Diego, South Bay Area, and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Executive Assistant supports the Executive Director and Associate Executive Director in administrative tasks to keep Our Time to Act United running smoothly. This includes internal and external communication, meeting management, presentation preparation, meeting minutes, and more. REQUIREMENTS No prior experience required. High school student or beyond. 6-8 hours, 1-2 meetings a week. Our scheduling is highly flexible. Values cooperation, creativity, growth-mindset. Exhibits organization, diligence, and dedication. Passion for youth empowerment. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION While pursuing our mission of youth empowerment, Our Time to Act United understands the importance of fostering a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all. As such, the actions we take align with our values as an organization and as individuals. We value meaningful impact. We always seek to genuinely support those that we serve and the people within our organization. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization is growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow for us to be a cooperative, productive, and effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you in order to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our organization, values, workplace environment, or the application process. APPLY

  • 2022 Winter Gala – A Sky Full of Stars | OTTA United

    Welcome to a night full of excitement, including food from local businesses, a project showcase highlighting this year's efforts, and keynote speakers. MENU: ITINERARY:

  • McKayla Dasha Sarmiento

    McKayla is a Human Biology Student at the University of California San Diego. She joined Our Time To Act in September 2022 as an AVEP Researcher. As a researcher, McKayla is responsible for collecting and analyzing data on barriers to API voting. Before Our Time To Act, McKayla worked in her Associated Students’ Office of Local Affairs as the Marketing Director, where she helped with redistricting efforts. She eventually hopes to attend graduate or medical school in pursuit for a career in medicine or biomedical research. She plans to use her career and focus her work on uplifting and addressing the many issues minority populations face within the healthcare system. < Back McKayla Dasha Sarmiento AVEP Researcher McKayla is a Human Biology Student at the University of California San Diego. She joined Our Time To Act in September 2022 as an AVEP Researcher. As a researcher, McKayla is responsible for collecting and analyzing data on barriers to API voting. Before Our Time To Act, McKayla worked in her Associated Students’ Office of Local Affairs as the Marketing Director, where she helped with redistricting efforts. She eventually hopes to attend graduate or medical school in pursuit for a career in medicine or biomedical research. She plans to use her career and focus her work on uplifting and addressing the many issues minority populations face within the healthcare system. md.sarmiento@ourtimetoact.org

  • OTTA United Completes Youth Activation & Workplace Motivation Workshop Series with Catalyst | Our Time To Act

    < Back OTTA United Completes Youth Activation & Workplace Motivation Workshop Series with Catalyst Saturday, June 10, 2023 Our Time to Act United MEDIA CONTACT: Mariya Grabovska, Press Intern ( mariya.grabovska@ottaunited.org ) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OTTA United is proud to announce the successful completion of its Youth Activation & Workplace Motivation Workshop Series with Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties. This two-part series, conducted in collaboration with the California Department of Social Services as part of the Stop the Hate grant, focused on addressing the challenges of "activating" and "motivating" youth in diverse settings. Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties is a community of funders dedicated to investing in social change work. The Stop the Hate grant, a partnership with the California Department of Social Services, aims to support organizations facing difficulties in engaging and motivating youth across diverse contexts, including service, activism, and the workplace. The primary objective was to enhance understanding of the youth perspective, improve intergenerational workplace relations, and provide practical frameworks for incorporating youth into organizational activities. The first workshop, titled "How Youth See Themselves, and How the World Sees Them" was a tremendous success. It was facilitated by Nicole Lillie, Director of Housing Justice, who skillfully guided a diverse group of nonprofit leaders through a dynamic program. Participants were encouraged to examine their preconceptions and biases about both young and older individuals, inspiring rich discussions and insights. Key takeaways from Workshop 1 included valuable tips for optimizing youth outreach, all framed from the youth's perspective. The engaging format and thoughtful content left participants better equipped to bridge generational divides and activate youth engagement effectively. In Workshop 2, "Models for Motivation: Radical Candor in an Intergenerational Workplace" Aidan Lin, Executive Director, led attendees through an exploration of Radical Candor framework as a motivational tool. Radical Candor can be summarized by caring personally about the team, not shying away from being direct of giving feedback, and seeking feedback when necessary. This session emphasized the importance of vulnerability in the workplace and provided participants with a practical understanding of how to employ Radical Candor effectively. An interactive activity allowed participants to practice giving feedback using the Radical Candor model, enhancing their communication skills and fostering a culture of openness and constructive dialogue. Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties extends its sincere gratitude to Aidan Lin, Nicole Lillie, and all participants who contributed to the success of these workshops. The organization remains committed to fostering generational understanding and empowerment. Next Previous

  • Financial Analyst

    < Back to Open Positions Financial Analyst Volunteer San Diego and/or Remote APPLY 8/7/24 - 2/7/25 ABOUT THE ROLE Job Summary: Financial Analysts at OTTA will build the skills necessary to learn how to budget and forecast with $200k+ funding, utilize Excel to break down expenses and funding sources, and understand how finances work at a nonprofit organization. Financial Analysts will directly support the Director of Finance and Budgeting and will be able to work with other OTTA members across different departments. Job Details: Attend weekly working and check-in meetings with the Executive Director and Director of Finance and Budgeting Facilitate fund requests and allocate funding to different departments Review and maintain compliance with laws and financial regulations Use excel to model budgets and forecast funding for future years Attend all additional meetings and events determined mandatory by your project team. Attend all relevant meetings and events for Our Time To Act as determined by your director and/or the Office of the Executive Director. Bring your full self and your passion to your work, and actively contribute to the finances of Our Time To Act team with genuine passion. Hours Per Week: Approximately 5-10 hours per week. These hours are mostly flexible except for required weekly meetings. During specific campaigns or running up to events, hours may increase and become less flexible. You are not expected to work late hours, and some weekends may be required, especially for some events. Meetings usually take place from 5pm - 8pm on weekdays. REQUIREMENTS Required Qualifications: Youth, 15 - 24 years old Existing knowledge of how to use Google Drive applications (Gmail, Docs, Forms, Calendar, Slides, Sheets, etc.). Google Drive applications are used frequently. Basic knowledge of Slack, the communications platform. Attention to detail and deadlines. Ability to communicate well with others, including fellow team members. Ability to work successfully with a team. Ability to communicate feedback effectively and with care. Ability to be flexible and adaptable to evolving situations. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to problem-solve quickly when issues arise. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION Our Time To Act is a youth-founded, youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission to organize powerful youth for an inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future. Our Time To Act values authenticity and passion. We play the role of coalition builders and mentors within our communities, sharing knowledge, resources, credit, and impact. And as a justice-oriented, impact-driven, and people-centered organization, our perspective grounds us with who we serve and the work we do while advancing our mission. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Here are some things to keep in mind: Our team values flexibility and taking initiative over structure and top-down delegation. This philosophy is not a good fit for all, so we want to be clear upfront. If you thrive in dynamic, open environments, this is the place for you. We value meaningful impact and support. We seek to authentically serve both our audience and our team members alike. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization are growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve, at all levels of our organization! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow us to be an effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. We prefer personability over professionalism, at least in internal settings. APPLY

  • OTTA United at San Diego Planning Commission for University City Plan Update | Our Time To Act

    < Back OTTA United at San Diego Planning Commission for University City Plan Update Thursday, September 29, 2022 Aidan Lin, Executive Director On Thursday, September 29th, 2022, the University City Plan Update was brought before the San Diego Planning Commission. This plan includes the major upzoning of large portions of North University City (UC). As demonstrated in a 2022 survey conducted by the planning department , a majority of UC residents, many of whom are students, support high-density and mixed-use development. Such growth would lower carbon emissions per capita, increase the available housing stock in San Diego, create walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, and more. OTTA United and other advocacy groups showed up in support of these changes. Specifically, we sought to ensure the youth voice was a part of this discussion. "Students' legitimacy as a consistent voice in the community has been proven time and time again. Yet at every turn, we need to justify our presence in these conversations." Sparky Mitra , a Project Director at OTTA United, said. "I came to San Diego as a bioengineering student alone, but those who consistently push back against my authority as a student have forced me to become much more, including a housing justice and environmental justice advocate." During my public comment, I touched upon the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the process, referencing the work of the planning department. "The work of former city planner Katie Wetherspoon to include students, renters, and POC residents in the community planning process allowed for one of the most representative community surveys in University City. Over 50% of the community supported the highest-density options and an overwhelming majority supported adding considerable amount amounts of density in the area ... To stray away from high-density development would invalidate the input of the most underrepresented voices in this process: renters, students, and employees of University City." Leana Cortez , our Director of Advocacy, pressed strongly on the immediate need for dense, mixed-use housing. "We really cannot postpone density and mixed-use options anymore. It may seem feasible to those who are already established homeowners but it's not feasible for renters, students, and working professionals that struggle to build roots here in University City ... Let's ensure the future of University City by championing climate, housing, and job opportunities." OTTA United looks forward to our continued advocacy in support of a bright future for University City. Next Previous

  • Lead Editor

    < Back to Open Positions Lead Editor Volunteer South Bay Area, San Diego, and/or Remote APPLY Rolling application. Priority given to applications submitted before September 30th. ABOUT THE ROLE The Lead Editor is in charge of Our Time to Act United's newsletter, website content, articles, and reporting. They compile internal information to create communiqués, document interesting instances of youth action or areas of youth need, and share this information through social media, news organizations, and on our website. REQUIREMENTS Prior experience preferred. Must be demonstrate ability to engage others through writing. High school student or beyond. 6-8 hours, 1-2 meetings a week. Our scheduling is highly flexible. Values cooperation, creativity, growth-mindset. Exhibits organization, diligence, and dedication. Passion for youth empowerment. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION While pursuing our mission of youth empowerment, Our Time to Act United understands the importance of fostering a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all. As such, the actions we take align with our values as an organization and as individuals. We value meaningful impact. We always seek to genuinely support those that we serve and the people within our organization. We are committed to being an inclusive and diverse group of people. These values are reflected in our hiring practices, decision-making, and programs. Our team and organization is growth-minded and development-focused. We always have room to improve! Our organization promotes honesty, communication, and integrity. These values allow for us to be a cooperative, productive, and effective team. We praise creativity and ingenuity. Nothing is more exciting than thinking outside of the box or challenging the status quo. Applications are a two-way street. We make our values as an organization clear to you in order to make sure our team is the right fit—and we hope we are! Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our organization, values, workplace environment, or the application process. APPLY

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