AmeriCorps 4-H Environmental Educator

The Wapsi River Center now seeks a motivated, out-going person with a background in natural resources, biology, parks/recreation, community organizing, communications, or administration. The candidate should have strong communication skills, a desire to serve with youth and diverse groups of people, and a passion for community stewardship.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual to gain valuable experience in educating about the importance of Iowa’s native resources and conservation practices. The AmeriCorps 4-H Environmental Education and Outreach Specialist with Scott County Conservation in Dixon, Iowa, will develop curricula, facilitate programming, and design positive youth development opportunities that increase the access of long-term, non-formal and informal, outreach natural resource and environmental education programming to youth in the county/community they serve.

This member will work in a team environment with Conservation program staff to facilitate and develop curricula/programs determined by the host site, that incorporate youth and the natural environment to develop life skills - Productive Citizens, Outstanding Communicators, Effective Leaders, and Successful Learners.

Specific projects this member will lead include:

• Train and guide volunteers on new programming and initiatives developed,
• Expand current environmental education programs to new youth audiences in the community: NGSS, STEM, native animals/habitats and their status in Iowa, focusing specifically on the development of Pioneer Village Summer Camps & Camp Liberty Girls Scout Camp,
• Develop and facilitate monthly educational programs focusing on each of the following areas: low-impact healthy lifestyles, STEM concepts in nature, and leadership skills that promote citizenship through natural resource education,
• Develop and facilitate youth educational components of Spring Volunteer Stewardship Day and assist members with volunteer events hosted by the conservation board,
• Foster partnerships with local schools, individuals, groups, and volunteers in the community for environmental education outreach,
• Track data for initiatives and monthly performance reports.
• The member may be asked to participate in additional service activities that are not included in the member position description but are in alignment with the approved grant activities.