WV READY: Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks and Recreation - Trail Development Coordinator

Title of Position – WV Rural Engagement Ambassador for Development and Youth (WV READY) – Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks and Recreation

Length – 03/4/2024 – 10/11/2024, 32 weeks, full-time

Location – Martinsburg, WV

Living Allowance - $600/week

AmeriCorps Award – Position is eligible for an AmeriCorps education award upon successful completion of the program. Value of education award is $4,826, pre-tax. Still working on a degree at a West Virginia school? Learn how to maximize your education award!

Application Due Date – Preference will be given to applicants that submit their application by 2/05/2023

Position Details

Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks and Recreation (MBCPR), in partnership with Stewards Individual Placements (Stewards), seeks a WV READY AmeriCorps member to serve a 32-week term (7.5 months) from March 2024 to October 2024. The WV READY member will serve as an ambassador to spearhead efforts on Poor House Trail development. Poor House Farm Park is one of MBCPR's premier park facilities that is designated as a destination/historical park facility and has been expanded with an adjacent parcel that would be ideal for an entirely new trail system to be developed off the existing network. In this role, you will be instrumental in translating the recently finalized Master Plan into action. Your focus will be on strategically identifying suitable locations for new trails, managing trail development projects from planning to completion, and ensuring alignment with our mission and goals. This presents a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on environmental conservation and outdoor recreation in Berkeley County. The ideal candidate is passionate about conservation and tourism, ready to contribute to community-based, collaborative ecotourism, and conservation efforts.

Project Responsibilities

• Trail System Development: Lead the improvement and expansion of the Poor House Farm trail system, collaborating on design and planning for the acquired adjacent parcel.
• Volunteer Coordination: Recruit, train, and coordinate volunteers for trail activities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with local communities and organizations to garner support and secure funding for trail development.
• Environmental Stewardship: Ensure trail development adheres to environmental regulations, protecting local ecosystems.
• Data Collection and Reporting: Collect data on trail usage, environmental impact, and volunteer contributions for progress tracking and reporting.
• Fundraising and Grant Writing: Assist in seeking grants and funding opportunities supporting trail development and the organization's mission.

Benefits

• $600/week living stipen
• Paid training
• Segal Education Award upon completion of term $4,826 (pre-tax)
• Receive tuition and fee waivers at West Virginia institutions of higher education
• Professional development
• Access to all member and alumni benefits of Conservation Legacy – a national conservation non-profit
• Make a HUGE impact in your community
• Propel your career forward with intentional experience and professional connections

Minimum Requirements

• Must be US Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident
• 18 years of age by start date
• Able to commit to 32 week service term
• High School Diploma or GED by start date
• Must be able to pass federal background check
• Willing to serve in West Virginia (WV resident preferred)

Qualifications and Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking
• Adaptable/open to dynamic work environment
  
• GIS mapping skills or willing to learn
• Post-secondary education (preferred)
• Parks and Recreation or equivalent certification (preferred)

Please be prepared to upload a resume and cover letter as part of this application.

For More Information

John-Michael Aurednik

West Virginia Programs Coordinator

681-238-0963

www.stewardslegacy.org/wvready