Mass Union is reviving our cohort of tenant leaders known as “Network Leaders.”
Who are Network Leaders?
Network Leaders are public housing tenants who have led an inclusive Local Tenant Organization and want to share their skills and experiences with tenants outside of their local community. They are committed to radical inclusion and to building power for our whole network.
Network Leaders provide crucial peer support for tenants who are new to organizing. As we all know, organizing is complicated and can be scary given threats of retaliation. Tenants are in the best position to help each other stay the course and grow their courage and skills. Network Leaders are Spaghetti Power in Action, showing that we have each other’s backs and are building power together.
What Do They Do?
Network Leaders do different things, depending upon their interests, availability, and the network’s needs. Our Organizers need help forming and sustaining Local Tenant Organizations and running local campaigns, and we also need more tenant voices to be heard in many different venues. Some examples of activities include:
- Attend meetings in nearby communities to share what it’s like to be part of a Local Tenant Organization (LTO)
- Help support LTO elections alongside Mass Union staff
- Assist with door-knocking and community outreach
- Provide support to newly elected tenant leaders
- Assist in training new LTOs
- Speak out publicly about local, statewide, or federal issues affecting tenants
What they do NOT do:
- Run LTO elections or campaigns without the guidance of an Organizer
- Speak for Mass Union without a clear plan and coaching
What are the Benefits?
The Network Leader role is not a paid position, but the cohort of Network Leaders will have access to a special in-person group building events, online training and support, and an annual stipend of $500 will be provided.
Network Leaders participate on a voluntary basis and are not employees of Mass Union. Network Leaders may receive an annual stipend of up to $500 in recognition of their participation and may be reimbursed for approved program-related expenses. The stipend is not an hourly wage or payment for a specific number of hours worked.
How Do I Join?
To join, prospective Network Leaders must:
- Have led or be leading a Local Tenant Organization
- Attend our “Leading for Impact” training series in Fall 2026
- Successfully pass the forthcoming Quiz about LTO requirements and tenant participation rights. This quiz will be available on our website in November, and all the necessary reference materials will be provided. The main reference material is Mass Union’s Handbook for new LTOs – you can start reviewing it now! Mass Union staff will also provide an open Q&A session later this fall to help you prepare.
- Let us know you are interested in joining by December 1. We will officially form the Cohort by December 18 and begin working together in the New Year!