Get Involved: Open Space - The Shack Volunteers

The Shack Volunteers

Description:

The Shack volunteers educate the public about the local flora and fauna and other related topics while stationed at the Shack.

Time Commitment:

No minimum number of hours required.

Position Details:

The Shack volunteers educate the public about the local flora and fauna and other related topics. They serve as a resource to answer questions and educate on various topics including the local ecosystem, Lafayette’s history, environmental science, natural history, sustainability and any other Open Space related topics. Activities, interpretive items, and interactive exhibits located in and around The Shack are used by volunteers to educate and inspire stewardship of the land.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate The Shack in two hours increments.
• At least one shift required per month.
• Provide meaningful engagement with visitors by answering questions and actively involving them in Shack displays and interactive activities.
• Sign up for shifts on Engage website.

Requirements:

• Be a friendly communicator and good listener.
• Knowledge of local ecosystem flora and fauna, Lafayette history, natural history and environmental science is required.
• Able to represent Open Space in a friendly, inclusive, and welcoming manner while interacting with the public and answering questions in the field.
• Complete background check and sign a volunteer waiver.
• Available to participate in Orientation & Field Training (total of 1 day) in June.
• Has access to reliable transportation to reach Open Space areas.
• Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. Individuals under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Volunteer Benefits:

• Be a leader and advocate for Lafayette’s Open Space and ecosystems.
• Cultivate community and a sense of place.
• Gain knowledge of local flora and fauna, geology, natural history, Lafayette’s history, etc.
• Build your environmental education teaching skills.
• Opportunities for continuous learning like trainings on local flora and fauna and ecosystem restoration.
• Flexible volunteer schedule based on your availability.

Interests:

Native Plants, Geology, Wildlife, Stewardship, Sustainability, Energy Efficiency, Natural History, Public Outreach, Environment, Climate Action, Cultural History, Bird Watching, Gardening, Archeology, Organizing/cleaning, Recycling, Outdoor Skills, Wetland Ecology, Conservation, Astronomy, Youth, Resource Management

Skills:

Local Cultural History, Insect ID, Gardening/Agriculture, Environmental Education, Botany, Bird ID, Youth Education, Reptile/Amphibian ID, Birds/Raptors, Engaging with the public, Interpretation/Education, Geology, Habitat Restoration, Wildlife Conservation, Plant ID, Mammal ID