Stewards VISTA: NEEF - Gateway National Recreation Area

Stewards VISTA: NEEF - Gateway National Recreation Area

Gateway National Recreation Area (GATE) and the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy (JBRPC) will plan and implement a new phenological monitoring program, Seasonal Change: Monitoring the NYC Environment for Climate Change. The goal of the proposed program is to activate and empower local youth as stewards and 21st century problem solvers. Through implementation of the Greening STEM model, students will participate in citizen science and engage with resource management issues. Due to its position on the Atlantic coast, GATE is uniquely susceptible to the impact of climate change, and there is a need to establish a citizen science phenological monitoring program to measure how the park's community of plants and animals are responding to climate change. Though GATE is one of the most visited parks in the country, access to the park is inequitable across socio-economic and racial lines. The proposed program will allow GATE and JBRPC to build on existing efforts to close this nature gap, by bringing underserved students from three CCLC sites into the park and empowering them to engage with the park as a living laboratory. By investigating the impacts of phenological change with park staff, carrying out several in-park investigations, collaboratively analyzing data, and constructing possible solutions, students will practice several critical STEM skills. Their contributions will leave a lasting impact on the park by collecting and analyzing critical data that can help inform future management decisions. The VISTA will work closely with the education specialist at GATE and the education team at JBRPC and CCLC partners to research, develop and implementprogram plans that align with Next Generation Science Standards, Greening STEM principles, and relevant resource concerns significant to GATE. Further help on this page can be found by clicking here.

Member Duties : Develop and implement programming for NPS-21stCCLC Grant Program and other GATE and JBRPC programs. Assist in the preparation and submission of grant proposals to secure future funding to continue program beyond the initial grant as needed. Assist in securing in-kind program support. Assist in digital community engagement efforts to keep community members informed on program activities and accomplishments. Assist in planning event(s) with project partners and the local community. Serve as liaison with NPS unit while conducting outreach to 21stCCLC programs and local K-12 schools and student groups (after-school programs, out-of-school programs, clubs, etc.). Gather ideas and opportunities for growth. Track Performance Measures and submit quarterly and final progress reports inclusive of qualitative and quantitative data for all areas of work.

Program Benefits : Health Coverage* , Living Allowance , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend , Childcare assistance if eligible , Training , Relocation Allowance , Housing Assistance .

Terms :

Car recommended , Permits working at another job during off hours .

Service Areas :

Environment , Education .

Skills :

Environment , Education .