FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 5, 2018
Contact: Kathy Galione (845) 364-2932

Rockland Youth Bureau Announces Applications Available for Summer 2018 Conservation Corps Program

NEW CITY, NY – County Executive Ed Day today announced that the Rockland County Youth Bureau is accepting applications for the 2018 Rockland Conservation & Service Corps.

Conservation Corps members will perform a variety of outdoor, environmental community service projects throughout the Rockland region. Responsibilities include educating the public about ecological conservation and environmental health issues, conducting field research, building and maintaining nature trails, teaching environmental education, planting gardens, patrolling streams, facilitating clean ups and implementing recycling programs. Corps Members will take an active role in beautifying, protecting and preserving Rockland's parks, open spaces and precious resources.

To be considered, students must be at least 18. Members are required to serve 350 hours between May 29 and August 10 at local sites that may include the Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources, the Clarkstown Planning Department, the Town of Ramapo, the Rockland County Drainage Agency, Rockland County Solid Waste Management Authority and Cornell Cooperative Extension, among others.

"This is a chance to go beyond the classroom and gain work experience while earning money," said County Executive Day. "At the same time, members make a lasting contribution to their community."

Members are paid a $2,100 stipend that is paid bi-weekly. Fifty hours of training are included in the 350-hour time commitment where members are trained in areas including environmental education, trail building, conservation, curriculum development, leadership, team building, safety as well as a variety of other pertinent topics. Members will also earn valuable work and service experience, network professionally and socially, potentially earn college credit and make improvements in the community.

"It's a terrific way to build a resume, get work experience, be outdoors all summer, make contacts and meet new friends," said Kathy Galione, Youth Bureau Program Coordinator.

Applicants must demonstrate their enthusiasm for environmental issues, be committed to serving their community and be willing to participate in outdoor activities that include hot and rainy weather conditions and wet and/or wooded environments.

This is a full-time, 35-40 hours per week, opportunity over the summer that is considered community service not a job. Candidates that are selected for the program will have a summer schedule that will permit the completion of the 350-hour time commitment.

Applications are accepted until positions are filled. The program begins on May 29, 2018 with most of the service taking place June through August. Candidates can request an application by phone (845) 364-2932 or by e-mail at rcsc@co.rockland.ny.us.