The Garden Educator is responsible for leading the development and implementation of a garden program at Jefferson and Washington Houses in East Harlem. This role focuses on training AmeriCorps Members to lead hands-on garden education for after-school, internship, and field trip programs, and coordinating volunteer and community engagement events. The educator will work to foster a sense of ownership and community around the gardens while promoting healthy lifestyles and environmental stewardship.
Garden Education & Programming:
Train AmeriCorps members to lead children and youth in a) environmental health literacy and placemaking curriculum ) garden and tree-centered service-learning projects – in the after school, school day, summer camp, and internship programs.
Create gardening lesson for residents, school, school day, summer camp, and internship programs that we engage.
Community Engagement:
- Assist in the recruitment of participants for Green Exercise Days and other garden events.
- Engage residents in the planning, planting, and maintenance of the community gardens.
- Serve as a point of contact for residents and community members regarding garden activities.
Program Administration:
- Assist with the coordination of garden-related activities led by AmeriCorps members.
- Ensure that staff and participants know and follow safety and educational procedures.
- Apply basic child development principles in working with participants through communication, and relationship development.
- Assure that participants are properly supervised at all times.
- Manage garden supplies and resources.
- Maintain records of program participation and progress.
- Be a role model to participants and staff in your attitude and behavior. Set a good example to participants and others in regard to general procedures and practices including sanitation, schedule, and sportsmanship.
Shovels, rakes, wheelbarrow, pruning tools, hoses, power tools, and other gardening equipment.
Ability to lift up to 100 lbs.
College Degree in agriculture, soil, environmental health, or other urban farm related track a must.
NYS Mandated Reporter, First Aid, & CPR. Must be at least 21 years of age.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Use mathematical reasoning.
High level of executive functioning, professionalism, integrity, work ethic, accountability, and responsibility.
Highly organized self-starter; ability to work independently and in a team, take and give direction, structure tasks, establish priorities, and set goals.
Horticulture: 3 years; Gardening/Horticulture/Trees: 3 years; Youth Development/Education: 3 years
Work Location: In person