WV READY: Raleigh Co. Parks and Rec - Oudoor Engagement Coordinator

Title of Position – WV Rural Engagement Ambassador for Development and Youth (WV READY) – Raleigh County Parks and Recreation Authority

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

Location – Beckley, 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

Raleigh County Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Stewards (STE) seeks an ambassador for a 32 week (about 7 1/2 months) to delve into the historical roots of our parks and agency. Responsibilities include conducting thorough historical research, organizing and documenting data for foundational growth, and implementing public outreach initiatives, showcasing events like the 1949 bill for Fitzpatrick Park. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate GIS mapping expertise, developing detailed maps for all 7 parks to enhance park management and visitor experience. Serving as a nature interpreter, the ambassador will identify trees and fish, creating informative signage to enrich the visitor experience with accurate insights into the diverse flora and fauna within our parks. If you are an enthusiastic individual with a passion for history, community engagement, and outdoor recreation, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey of uncovering and celebrating the vibrant history of Raleigh County Parks and Recreation.

Project Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough historical research, delving into WV legislative documents, media archives, and collaborating with local libraries and historical societies to compile a comprehensive account of the agency and parks.
• Organize and document historical data systematically, providing a foundational guide for the agency's growth and effective service to the region.
• Implement public outreach initiatives by creating wayside exhibits, displays, programing, and web content to share the captivating history of our parks, including highlighting specific events such as the 1949 bill for Fitzpatrick Park.
• Develop detailed GIS maps for all 7 parks, covering roads, trails, buildings, and outdoor recreation spaces to facilitate park management and enhance the overall visitor experience.
• Identify trees along trails and fish in waterways, creating informative signage to enrich the visitor experience with accurate identification and insight into the diverse flora and fauna within our parks.

Benefits

• $600/week living stipend
• 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 a US Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident
• Able to commit to 32 weeks of service
• Must be 18 years old or older
• High School Diploma or GED (by start of service)
• Must be able to pass federal background check
• Willing to serve in West Virginia (West Virginia resident preferred)

Qualifications and Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Customer service experience
• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking
• Ability to function well in a high-paced environment
• GIS mapping skills or willing to learn
• Biological identification
• Research skills and base knowledge of history
• Ability to work with youth
• Possession of valid driver’s license with a good driving record (preferred)

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

For More Information

John-Michael Aurednik (he/him)
West Virginia Programs Coordinator
681-238-0963
jmaurednik@conservationlegacy.org
www.stewardslegacy.org/wvready

WV READY

Launched in 2022, the West Virginia Rural Engagement Ambassadors for Development and Youth (WV READY) is a new collaborative AmeriCorps program. Stewards Individual Placements, in partnership with Appalachian Conservation Corps, Volunteer WV and local community organizations, is working to support WV’s transition to eco-tourism, outdoor recreation, and increasing outdoor accessibility.

Although each WV READY member’s project will look different depending on host site needs, they will still be able to lean on a cohort-style model for support, shared experiences, and professional development. Ideal candidates for this initiative are young adults looking to build a career and be a part of this larger movement in the Mountain State! Find our current recruiting projects here.

Raleigh County Parks and Recreation Authority

Since the 1930s Raleigh County has provided parks for its residence and visitors. Over the past eighty years those parks have evolved and grown in numbers. Raleigh County Parks and Recreation Authority now manages and maintains 7 parks with the same mission: to provide recreation opportunities to Raleigh County residence and visitors.

Stewards Individual Placements – A program of Conservation Legacy

Mission

Providing individual opportunities through service that build career-based experience, strengthen communities, and preserve our natural resources.

Values

1. We promote excellence in national service and strive to create the optimal service terms for our participants and organizational partners.
2. We strive for consistency, transparency, and efficiency in our organizational systems and processes.
3. We are committed to a collegiate environment that promotes personal development, individuality, professionalism, and fun.
4. We respect the legacy of our organization while embracing the need to adapt our systems to better serve participants and partners.
5. We are committed to actively participating in efforts to preserve and restore the global environment and ecosystem for future generations.

Stewards Individual Placements Program does not and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.