Grand Traverse Conservation District Position Description: Outreach Specialist
The Outreach Specialist position is made possible through a partnership with Huron Pines and Michigan’s AmeriCorps and a grant from Rotary Charities of Traverse City.
The Grand Traverse Conservation District (District) is a local unit of government, which operates much like a non-profit. The District’s mission is to inspire exploration, appreciation, and conservation of our natural world. We work toward this mission through three primary program areas: community programs, private land services, and public land management. Our community programs have taken a great step forward with the recent opening of the new Boardman River Nature Center.
Through Huron Pines AmeriCorps, we are able to offer an exciting 12 month opportunity to a highly motivated individual that is looking to build his/her skills in organizational capacity building while working in a dynamic, challenging position. To fill this position, we will be looking for someone who is creative, offers strong problem solving abilities, and has excellent interpersonal and communications skills.
SCOPE AND PURPOSE OF SERVICE:
The Outreach Specialist will help implement the overall public and organizational outreach program for the District. This service will advance the mission of the District by helping to build the organization’s capacity for providing services, increasing the number of participants involved with the organization and its programs, and by building a strong base of community support for the District’s mission.
This position requires a one-year commitment and is part of the Huron Pines AmeriCorps Program.
Position Location: Traverse City, MI
Responsible To: Rebecca Teahen, District Development Coordinator
Duties & Responsibilities:
Communications Program
· Create materials for the District’s newsletters (three times per year, including Annual Report) and special member updates.
· Create information for brochures, and compile information packets, etc.
· Track and record media coverage of programs/projects
· Manage and update GTCD website with volunteer opportunities, articles, photos, etc.
· Attend project workdays, volunteer events, etc., and write media pieces for coverage.
Stewardship and Outreach
· Work with Development Coordinator to maintain member database.
· Identify individuals and groups to become involved with the District through volunteer opportunities, conservation programming, facility rentals, etc.
· Assist with Nature Preserve activity planning.
· Prepare organizational information and promote the District and its services at local meetings to special interest groups.
Volunteer management
· Facilitate and coordinate the District’s volunteer native plant rescue program
· Provide information and coordination for volunteers and volunteer opportunities at the District.
Huron Pines AmeriCorps Requirements
· Prepare and submit bi-weekly workplans
· Maintain and submit accurate timesheet and mileage reimbursement form
· Conduct at least two presentations to community groups about Huron Pines AmeriCorps
· Engage at least 20 volunteers in resource stewardship activities
· Submit 3 “Great Stories”
· Provide regular project updates and photos for the website
· Participate in five resource management/professional development trainings
· Participate in Huron Pines AmeriCorps Spring Service Project and at least two state-wide AmeriCorps trainings/service projects
· Represent yourself as a Huron Pines AmeriCorps Members at all times
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s Degree required, Master’s Degree preferred, in communications,
journalism, marketing or related field.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Computer efficiency (database, spreadsheet, word processor, and Adobe programs: Photoshop and Indesign preferred)
- Evidence of the ability to use new approaches to solve problems
- Willing & able to work independently and as part of a team
- Highly organized
- Desire to conserve natural resources
On occasion, work may be required at an off-site location. Use of a personal vehicle and/or District vehicle may be required to perform duties. This is a 38 hour per week position. A stipend, health insurance, and school loan payment are provided as compensation for service by AmeriCorps Members.
Please submit Americorps Application form (below) with resume and cover letter to Grand Traverse Conservation District, Rebecca Teahen, Development Coordinator, 1450 Cass Rd. Traverse City, MI 49684 by October 15, 2008.