Stewards VISTA: Forks of Coal - Outdoor Programming Coordinator

Length – April 8 2024 – April 7 2025 (365 days)

Location – Alum Creek, WV

Living Allowance - $62.69/day

AmeriCorps Award – Position is eligible for an AmeriCorps education award upon successful completion of the program. Value of education award is $6,195, pre-tax. Still working on a degree at a West Virginia school? Learn how to maximize your education award in West Virginia!

Position Details

The Forks of Coal Natural Area Foundation, in partnership with Stewards Individual Placements (Stewards) seeks an AmeriCorps VISTA Member for a 365 day (1 year) term to plan, promote, and develop public programming and volunteer engagement activities at the Center and on the trails of the Forks of Coal State Natural Area. The member will perform a variety of administrative and professional activities to enhance the outdoor recreation economy and opportunities in the area.

This person will play a crucial role in creating and developing our outdoor programming, serving as the outdoor recreation development coordinator. 

Project Responsibilities

• Develop programs and related materials to educate students and the general public about West Virginia’s wildlife resources and their habitats. This includes curriculum materials to be used with school groups on site and informational material for the general public, such as informational trail brochures.
• Network with area schools to develop a schedule of regular field trip visits to the Center.
• Create and improve processes to recruit and train volunteers to help conduct school and public programs and possibly to assist with trail maintenance and habitat improvement.
• Promote activities of the Center through social and print media.
• Assist with grant research and writing.
• Serve as a liaison between the Dept. of Natural Resources and the Forks of Coal Foundation
• Engage with visitors to the Center and provide information and assistance, as needed.
• Assist in monitoring the exhibits, including the aquarium and terrarium, for safety and functionality.

Program Benefits:

• Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend
• WV Tuition Waiver upon successful completion of service
• Health Coverage*
• Relocation Allowance (up to $750, depending on distance)

*For details about AmeriCorps VISTA healthcare benefits, please visit https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/vista/benefits.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Professional communication skills: written, presentation, and public speaking
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Outlook, Excel, and Forms
• Event Planning
• Facilitating group conversations
• Managing/supporting volunteers
• Passion for outdoor recreation
• Open-minded and collaborative spirit

 Minimum Requirements

• Must be a US Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident
• Able to commit to 52 weeks of service
• Must be 18 years old or older
• Bachelors Degree Preferred
• Must be able to pass federal background check