The Winooski Valley Park District (WVPD) is seeking an AmeriCorp Member to fill a service opportunity at WVPD based in Burlington, VT. The member will help in stewardship of 17 natural areas. The WVPD is a nonprofit organization serving seven communities. The member will work with volunteers, staff and others on several conservation and education projects. We are seeking an energetic, motivated individual who enjoys working with youth and protection of the natural resource at our parks. 

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Full-time members (approx. 30 hrs/wk for 8 months) receive many benefits during their year of service:

• An opportunity to do something meaningful and important;
• A chance to gain experience and learn new skills;
• Upon completion of the program, an education award of up to $2,362 to be used for college tuition or college loan repayment;
• A living stipend of $6,790
• Basic Health Insurance and Childcare Expenses (if state eligible). 
  
• Numerous and diverse training opportunities

Position Duties

• Help organize WVPD’s annual Conservation Field Day attended by 200 5^th graders.
• Solicit volunteers, schedule outings, and help lead programs for young people using existing, hands-on Environmental Education curriculum developed for WVPD parks.
• Photograph school groups and other park visitors at as many of WVPD 17 parks as possible.
• Recruit, orient and work with volunteers in removing invasive plants at WVPD parks;
• Assist with natural resource protection projects at several WVPD parks.
• Distribute and help orient others to WVPD’s curriculum for the parks, via WVPD’s website, press releases and direct contact.
• Create, and update colorful displays for WVPD’s series of outdoor information boards.
• Participate in the VCSP Smart Glow Initiative by leading or teaming up with regional members for projects that aim to increase awareness and utilization of compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs);
• The position combines indoor and outdoor work

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to work on your own and as part of a team;
• Strong organizational skills and work ethic;
• Experience working with children is preferred.
• Website design and management helpful.
• Ages 17 or older (if 17, need written parental permission);
• U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident alien of U.S.;
• Willingness to comply with federal regulations requiring a background criminal check on AmeriCorps members working with children.

Start and End Dates: January, 2008 – August 22, 2008

To Apply: Send a cover letter, the application, resume, 2 letters of reference, and a list of 3 references to: