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Certified Citizen Advocate

Category: Community Engagement and Organizing
Certified Citizen Advocate (Policy)

Overview
Train on rail policy and represent the passenger perspective to leaders and the press.

Key Responsibilities
- Complete RPA’s advocacy training modules and refreshers.
- Conduct outreach to elected officials, agencies, and civic groups.
- Contribute letters/op‑eds; support rapid‑response campaigns.
- Capture rider stories and local needs to inform RPA priorities.

Qualifications
- Persuasive speaker/writer with a collaborative mindset.
- Self‑directed researcher; social media comfort helpful.
- Willing to learn and follow message discipline.

Time Commitment
Variable; ~2–4 hours/week on average, higher during campaigns or hearings.

Benefits
- Certification badge; recognition at conference/events.
- Bylines and public‑facing impact to showcase in your portfolio.
Should be a Rail Passengers member or prepared to join Rail Passengers to participate. To
apply, send a resume, clips/links and a cover letter by email to [email protected].

"On behalf of Amtrak’s onboard service staff, I want to thank the Rail Passengers Association for honoring their hard work with this award. The past couple years have indeed been difficult for Amtrak onboard service staff – coping with furloughs and job insecurity, adapting to changing protocols and services, not to mention the unfortunate events such as a tragic derailment and a fatal shooting. Nevertheless, our dedicated members at Amtrak have handled these hurdles with the care, attention and diligence for which they’re known. We thank Rail Passengers for their acknowledgement of our members’ hard work and, as always, look forward to seeing you on the rails."

Arthur Maratea, TCU/IAM National President
December 21, 2021, on the Association awarding its 2021 Golden Spike Award to the Frontline Amtrak Employees.