Kristopher James
Environmental Organizer
Swampscott,MA
Summary
Dedicated environmental advocate with a background in community organization, policy analysis, and climate justice. Pursuing a Master of Science in Energy Policy and Climate Change from Johns Hopkins University, building on a Master's in Social Work focused on community and policy action. Proven leader in environmental initiatives with skills in stakeholder engagement, program coordination, and public advocacy. Seeking to drive meaningful contributions in renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainability.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Environmental Advocacy and Community Organizing
Save Kings Beach
03.2023 - Current
- Engaged with local government to maintain strong relationships with elected officials and advocate for clean water initiatives.
- Developed robust relationships with community members and fellow volunteers through advocacy, education, and active engagement.
- Proposed strategies for stakeholder engagement and fundraising initiatives.
- Contributed to the creation of the FAQ section on the website and collaborated with team members on overall website development.
- Advocates for clean water and coastline preservation with emphasis on sustainable infrastructure
Chief of Staff
Young Democrats of Massachusetts
10.2022 - Current
- Oversees community outreach, internal communications and ensuring all members are supported in their respective roles
- Collaborates with Board members to host/organize events and broaden community outreach and awareness of social justice issues
- Cultivates relationships with various stakeholders, Elected officials, community leaders and sustains these networks
- Engages all chapters of YDMA to be active participants and helps grow membership through social media and various other platforms.
Certified Life Coach
Association For Autism And Neurodiversity
10.2023 - Current
- Utilized a Person centered approach focused on clients strengths and self efficacy and advocacy.
- Enhanced client communication skills with targeted exercises, role-play scenarios, and constructive feedback.
- Improved client self-awareness by conducting in-depth assessments and facilitating insightful coaching sessions.
- Boosted clients'' confidence levels by addressing limiting beliefs, reframing negative thought patterns, and fostering a growth mindset.
- Collaborated with other professionals like therapists or career counselors to provide comprehensive support for clients facing complex challenges.
Climate Justice Organizer
The Long Island Progressive Coalition
06.2019 - 06.2020
- Spearheaded a collaboration with the Long Island Progressive Coalition to construct a Climate Change Seminar from beginning to end
- The goal of this Seminar was to educate, engage, and collaborate with Stony Brook University and the surrounding community, about the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act
- Coordinated with Long Island Progressive Coalition point person, Legislators and Stakeholders
- Secured location of the event, recording of the event to be placed on their website, and groups/community leaders to participate in the forum.
Outpatient Therapist
Mentor Network
01.2022 - 06.2024
- Delivered psychoeducation to over 200 clients, increasing adaptive communication skills and emotional regulation
- Coordinated interdisciplinary collaboration with clinicians from Department of Children and Families to ensure safe, secure environments for individuals being served
- Initiated, maintained, and completed clinical files and records for each client, including initial evaluations, assessments, treatment plans, session notes, transfer and termination summaries and other required documentation.
Education
Master of Science - Energy Policy And Climate Change
John Hopkins University
Washington, DC05.2026
Master of Science - Social Work
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY05.2020
Skills
Policy analysis
Public Speaking
Volunteer Management
Event Coordination
Grassroots Organizing
Teamwork and Collaboration
Community Outreach
Renewable energy systems
Climate Resilience
Green Infrastructure Design
Climate Education
Climate Policy Analysis
Certification
Wilderness First Aid
Leadership Experience
- Young Democrats of Massachusetts, Boston, MA, Chief of Staff, 10/2022, Present, Oversees community outreach, internal communications and ensuring all members are supported in their respective roles., Collaborates with Board members to host/organize events and broaden community outreach and awareness of social justice issues., Cultivates relationships with various stakeholders, Elected officials, community leaders and sustains these networks.
- Town of Swampscott, Swampscott, MA, Town Meeting Member, 05/2024-Present, Represent, advocate, and organize the election district regarding issues that are important to the community and elevate their voices regarding pressing topics.
- Office of Councilwoman Valerie Cartright, Brookhaven, NY, Legislative Community Organizer, 09/2018, 06/2019, Drafted mental health first aid legislation enacted into law in 2019. Co-chaired a sub-committee of the Drug Prevention Coalition to enhance online presence and outreach. Planned events, engaged community stakeholders, and secured donations. Assisted in grant research and created website materials for the Coalition. Composed press releases and donor correspondence, and represented councilwoman Valerie Cartright at events.
Timeline
Wilderness First Aid
06-2024
Certified Life Coach
Association For Autism And Neurodiversity
10.2023 - Current
Environmental Advocacy and Community Organizing
Save Kings Beach
03.2023 - Current
Chief of Staff
Young Democrats of Massachusetts
10.2022 - Current
Outpatient Therapist
Mentor Network
01.2022 - 06.2024
Climate Justice Organizer
The Long Island Progressive Coalition
06.2019 - 06.2020
Master of Science - Energy Policy And Climate Change
John Hopkins University
Master of Science - Social Work
Stony Brook University