As an Earth Connections Volunteer, you will learn about ecology and living sustainably and share that knowledge with others while creating positive change in your community. In a supportive learning environment you will be provided with 40 hours (4 CEU's) of in-depth learning opportunities, resource sharing, and skill development.

You will learn about: human ecology; forest, marine, and freshwater ecology; sustainable living; and sustainable communities.  In return, you will commit to conducting 30 hours of community outreach in collaboration with a community group, school, or conservation organization, or as an independent project of your own design.

Interested in becoming an Earth Connections Volunteer? For more information contact Cathy Elliott at (207) 581-2902, or celliott@umext.maine.edu. To apply on-line, click here.

Responsibilities:

• Attend and participate in all scheduled course meetings (see dates).
• Complete course readings and related assignments.
• With input and assistance from Earth Connections staff, develop a community outreach plan of at least 30 hours to be completed over the following year.
• Collaborate and coordinate with a community group, school, or conservation organization to implement your outreach plan, or implement an independent project.
• Role model healthy, positive energy and communication.
• Maintain regular communication with Earth Connections staff, sharing your successes and challenges.
• Represent University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Tanglewood 4H Camp & Learning Center, and the Earth Connections Volunteer Program.

Qualifications:

• Interested in learning and sharing information with others about ecology, natural resource management, sustainable living, and healthy lifestyles.
• Committed to creating a sustainable future.
• Enjoy getting involved in your community.
• Have, or are willing to gain, the knowledge and skills to work effectively with others as is appropriate to your individual outreach plan, such as:
  • Expressing ideas to others in person or in writing
  • Meeting and talking with new people
  • Helping others find information and assistance
  • Speaking in public
  • Organizing or running an event or meeting

Compensation: Volunteer position.

Program Cost: $125 for volunteers from the general public, and $300 for teachers who will be fulfilling their outreatch commitment in their classroom during regular school hours. For all participants the fee includes course materials, and lodging and food for weekend gathering. Contact us if you need financial assistance.

Dates: TBA

To Apply: Apply online, or contact us via phone or email to have an application mailed to you.

Contact: Cathy Elliott, Wildlife Specialist and coordinator for Earth Connections Volunteers program, phone (207) 581-2902; email celliott@umext.maine.edu.

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