Iola Kostrzewski

Community engagement manager @Anti Defamation League

💸 Marketing🧨 ConsultingPolitical ConsultantCommunity ManagerEngagement Manager

With over seven years of experience in public health and a Master of Public Health degree, I am a passionate and dedicated professional who strives to foster connections, drive social change, and advocate for equitable health outcomes. As a JOC Community Organizer Fellow at JOIN for Justice, I leverage my Jewish heritage and values to infuse my work with principles of justice, compassion, and inclusivity, while engaging with diverse communities and stakeholders. In addition to my current role, I have a rich and varied background in health advocacy, community development, and political activism. I have been instrumental in championing policies that improve the lives of children in foster care, addressing maternal and infant health disparities among BIPOC and LGBTQ populations, and collaborating with providers and organizations on tackling HIV in rural communities. I have also immersed myself in local and state politics, working tirelessly to make a positive impact on the communities I serve as a past political candidate and an active political board member. Through effective communication, networking, and community engagement, I bring together diverse perspectives and interests to effect positive transformations. Guided by the values of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and communal responsibility, I channel my passion and expertise into advocating for policies that uplift marginalized populations and create a more just and inclusive society.

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Work Background

Anti-Defamation LeagueMinnesota Community Engagement Manager

Jan. 2024Minnesota, United States · Remote Developing and implementing annual plans in collaboration with the regional office to enhance ADL's visibility in Minnesota and engage more individuals in the pursuit of ADL’s mission. Coordinate a variety of events to introduce ADL to the community, propose event content, and research potential speakers and desired audiences. Additionally, conduct site visits to identify venues, manage event logistics, and operate within established budgets. Oversee event promotion, manage day-of-event implementation, and cultivate relationships with influential individuals and organizations to broaden ADL’s reach. Furthermore, stay updated on relevant news and developments in Minnesota, manage relationships with a portfolio of current donors, and cultivate potential new supporters to increase giving. Lastly, provide leadership to the Minnesota Committee, assess performance against annual goals, and recruit new members according to parameters agreed upon with the regional office.

JOIN for JusticeJOC Community Organizer Fellow

May. 2023Hybrid

JustUs HealthGreater MN HIV Provider Engagement Coordinator

Sep. 2020St Paul, Minnesota, United StatesEstablishing and Cultivating Collaborative Relationships with Primary and Infectious Disease Providers, Social Services, and Public Health Stakeholders Across Greater Minnesota to Enhance the Accessibility of Current HIV Medical and Support Services for Individuals Living with HIV. Leveraging the Minnesota AIDSLine as a Key Resource.

Somali American Farmers AssociationTreasurer

Jul. 2020Minnesota, United States

Stonewall DFLVice Chair

Jan. 2022 - Jan. 2024Minnesota, United States

Fair State Brewing CooperativeBoard Director

Sep. 2020 - May. 2023Minneapolis, Minnesota, United StatesBringing a unique perspective of implementing diversification of the craft beer scene, along with broad experience from my various boards I have served on.

Stonewall DFLDirector of Communications

Jan. 2021 - Jun. 2021Led dynamic and strategic efforts in shaping the Caucus's messaging, brand identity, and outreach initiatives, playing a pivotal role in enhancing the organization's influence and reach. Spearheaded the formulation and implementation of highly effective communication strategies, resulting in increased engagement and mobilization of the LGBTQ community, stakeholders, and allies. Crafted compelling narratives that aligned with the Caucus's mission and values, ensuring consistent and resonant messaging across various communication platforms. Collaborated closely with Caucus leadership to develop communication plans for advocacy campaigns, policy initiatives, and events, driving successful outcomes and amplification of Caucus priorities. Established and maintained strong relationships with local, national, and LGBTQ-focused media outlets, securing impactful coverage and elevating the Caucus's profile. Managed social media platforms, curating engaging content and fostering meaningful online conversations to cultivate a robust online community. Generated written content, including articles, blog posts, and newsletters, to effectively engage and educate diverse audiences. Provided guidance and support to Caucus members participating in public speaking engagements, panels, and media interviews. Analyzed engagement metrics and data to assess the impact of communication strategies, informing continuous improvement and evidence-based decision-making.

Stonewall DFLCo-Vice Chair

Jan. 2020 - Jan. 2021Minnesota, United States

Foster AdvocatesProgram Coordinator

Aug. 2019 - Sep. 2020St Paul, Minnesota, United StatesCultivating strategic alliances with diverse youth and community councils, encompassing the establishment of robust connections with key stakeholders within the Foster Care system, with the aim of forging prospects for forthcoming Foster Fellowship initiatives. Inaugurating and overseeing the deployment of the Foster Fellowship Cohort, ensuring meticulous planning, execution, and ongoing management. Conducting thorough research into industry best practices adopted by organizations engaged with individuals within the Foster care system, fostering a comprehensive understanding of effective methodologies and approaches.

Alex Palacios Campaign for Ward 6Director Of Communications and Policy

May. 2020 - Aug. 2020Special Election Minneapolis Ward 6.

Jamii BirthMaternal and Infant Health Strategist

Feb. 2013 - Feb. 2020Minnesota, United StatesDelivered doula birth services to marginalized populations, specifically focusing on BIPOC and the LGBTQAI+ community. Collaborated closely with these communities to facilitate favorable birth outcomes, emphasizing individual choice in the birthing process, while concurrently establishing vital links to essential family resources. Established and nurtured professional relationships with fellow birth workers and healthcare providers within the metropolitan and North shore regions, fostering a collaborative network committed to enhancing maternal and infant health. Engaged in impactful advocacy endeavors aimed at rectifying disparities in birth outcomes and promoting equity in childbirth experiences. These efforts included presenting perspectives and insights on national platforms. Played an active role in the development and revision of legislative initiatives related to doula services, notably contributing to the origination and modification of the doula bill.