Now Hiring! Full-time NatureHoods Coordinator Position (AmeriCorps)

The Children’s Forest is seeking an individual who is passionate about connecting kids with the outdoors to serve as our NatureHoods Coordinator.  This position delivers programs for students and families that connect them with “nearby nature” and spark appreciation and curiosity about the natural world.  This is a full-time 11-month AmeriCorps position, serving with the Bend Notre Dame Mission Volunteers.

 

POSITION: NatureHoods Coordinator

LOCATION: 63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, OR 97701 (with option for part-time telework)

TERM: 11 months (September 2022 – July 2023)

 

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The NatureHoods Coordinator will develop and implement opportunities for local students and families to engage with and learn about nature in their schoolyard and local parks. The position will facilitate learning in “nearby nature” for students and families, with the primary responsibility to deliver a 4-part NatureHoods program for K-2nd grade students across Central Oregon.  The position also develops and delivers programs for rural families, focusing on early childhood.  The majority of programs are delivered to rural and/or under-resourced communities.  This is an 11-month AmeriCorps position with the Bend Notre Dame Mission Volunteers.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Learn about issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the outdoor sector and commit to advancing practices that work towards ensuring all learners feel welcome and included Children’s Forest programs.
  2. Develop and deliver nature-based lessons for K-5 students in schoolyards and local parks that align with science and math standards.
  3. Plan and deliver free family programs in NatureHoods that foster curiosity and wonder for the natural world.
  4. Plan and deliver out-of-school programs that connect youth to the natural world.
  5. Serve as a representative for the Children’s Forest at community events.
  6. Participate on Children’s Forest Committees, collaborating with Children’s Forest partners.
  7. Complete and submit in a timely manner all AmeriCorps required reports and time sheets.
  8. Participate in AmeriCorps sponsored orientation, trainings, meetings, and disaster-related activities.
  9. Ability to lift 40 pounds and standing for long periods of time.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. An independent and self-motivated individual who enjoys collaborating with diverse individuals and organizations.
  2. Passion for the Children’s Forest mission and experience working with youth outdoors.
  3. A Bachelor’s degree in biology, geography, environmental studies, education, or other related field.
  4. Valid driver’s license, good driving record, and reliable transportation.
  5. Willingness to work occasional weekends and evenings.

 

ABOUT NOTRE DAME MISSION VOLUNTEERS

Notre Dame AmeriCorps (NDA) members serve in 30 different cities as program assistants in education, environmental, and disaster relief programs. In Bend, 6 NDA members serve at 4 different non-profit organizations. AmeriCorps members are serving at sites that range from after-school enrichment programs, environmental education programs, and emergency housing shelters. One of the greatest strengths of the Notre Dame AmeriCorps program is the diversity of our members. Our members are bound together by the common ideals of service, educational empowerment, and community building.

 

AMERICORPS BENEFITS

Notre Dame AmeriCorps members commit to 11 months of service starting on September 1st, 2022 through July 30th, 2023. During that period, they are required to complete 1700 hours of service. The majority of that will be spent at their Primary Site, and the remainder of those hours will be during AmeriCorps Team Meetings, community service projects, and independent study.

 

During the year of service, AmeriCorps members are eligible for:

  • Annual living stipend of $17,000 (pre-tax), dispersed bi-weekly.
  • Forbearance on eligible student loans
  • Interest Accrual payment of all eligible student loans
  • Health Insurance
  • Childcare stipend

 

Upon successful completion of the service year, AmeriCorps members receive:

  • A Segal Education Award of $6,495 that can be applied to eligible federal student loans or future education costs.
  • Membership in the AmeriCorps Alums Network
  • Access to AmeriCorps Alumn Job Boards and Recruiting Event

 

QUESTIONS?

  • For questions about the Children’s Forest and position responsibilities, contact Katie Chipko, CFCO Executive Director, [email protected], (541) 383-5592.
  • For questions about AmeriCorps and the application process, contact Izzy Mize, Bend NDMVA Site Director at [email protected].

 

TO APPLY

Visit www.ndmva.org/apply or call or email Izzy, Bend NDMVA Site Director at [email protected].

The position is available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, political affiliation, or religion. Qualified individuals with disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals.