In 2024, a group of Southern California leaders created this set of compensation and benefits standards, meant to serve as an aspirational reference point for what would transform job quality for all staff positions in the region. They are intended to serve as a reference point, a place to start, and inspiration for what is possible, coming directly from leaders currently in the field. When organizers can make ends meet, take care of themselves and their loved ones, and maintain a pace of work that ensures they don’t burn out, our movements are stronger, more effective and better equipped to win. These changes won’t happen overnight, but these standards offer a place to start.