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Description
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Natural Cities Program AmeriCorps*VISTA project will be a model for community-based restoration of an urban ecosystem. The goal of the program is to help community groups in and around Boston to identify and protect critical ecological resources in the urban watersheds around Boston. Project volunteers work with neighborhood associations in Boston, helping to get residents involved in the cleanup and redevelopment of sites in and around Boston.
Their energy, knowledge and enthusiasm will be focused on reaching diverse groups and engaging them in the many different levels of participation available in the redevelopment projects. Tasks will include:
1) Working with UEI attorneys to encourage public involvement in parcel restoration and redevelopment.
2) Assisting with presentations to community groups.
3) Researching topics in urban ecology.
4) Providing ongoing support in the form of organizing events and helping community groups with research to build projects.
Skills and Qualifications:
We are looking for a hard-working, dedicated, self-starter who desires a rewarding and challenging experience. Only applicants dedicated to a year of public service through AmeriCorps*VISTA, should apply.
You must be a U.S. citizen, national, or legal permanent resident alien of the United States. A positive attitude and sense of humor are a must. Also:
1) Excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong organizational skills.
2) Some background in environmental issues, outreach, organizing or education would be helpful, but is not required.
3) Understanding of, or willingness to learn about, land use planning, Massachusetts public access laws, and recreation issues.
4) Desire to work with diverse groups of people and to make a difference in an urban area. Ability to work alone or as part of a group.
5) Good computer skills. Knowledge of, or willingness to learn, ArcView is a plus.
6) Interest in working on urban environmental problems, as well as commitment to the overall goals of the Urban Ecology Institute.
The Urban Ecology Institute, Inc. seeks qualified applicants without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability or any other attribute not related to superior performance of this position.
The Urban Ecology Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring and protecting urban ecosystems through research, education and advocacy.
The Institute operates two programs: the Field Studies and Natural Cities Programs. UEI's Urban Ecology Field Studies Program works with public middle and high school teachers and students in long-term, hands-on environmental field studies at urban sites throughout the Boston area and will soon be expanded for national use.
The Natural Cities Program works with urban community groups to protect and restore urban watersheds. The Institute provides legal and technical support to community groups on a number of projects, including efforts to develop a former hazardous waste site into a community park, and to clean an urban river called Chelsea Creek.
The Institute is also working with a coalition of community organizations to develop a system of open spaces and public destinations along Boston Harbor. This project will be a national model for the redevelopment of urban waterfronts.
The Natural Cities program is also developing a model urban ecosystem mapping project, identifying ecologically significant parcels, and advocating for their protection.
Pay:
This is a one-year position with a living allowance of $843/month through the AmeriCorps*VISTA Program.
You will also receive $4,725 towards education expenses or a $1200 stipend at the end of your year of service.
To Apply:
Please say you saw this position on Green Dream Jobs! Email, fax or mail to:
Aaron Toffler
Director, Natural Cities Program
Urban Ecology Institute
225 Higgins Hall
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467-3811