Climate Action Fellow

Project summary

The California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) is part of a statewide initiative to address and mitigate the effects of climate change. CCAC matches Fellows with organizations to mobilize community members to take direct climate action through education, volunteer mobilization, and assessment focused on urban greening, organic waste diversion and edible food recovery, and wildfire resiliency. This is a climate-focused, workforce development program for emerging climate and environmental leaders.

Opportunity description

At Fresno State, we recognize the urgent need for climate action to address public health crises worsened by climate change, particularly in our diverse and underserved communities. As Climate Action Fellows, your role will spearhead projects focused on urban greening, food recovery, organic waste collection, and composting. Fellows will engage in direct climate action, recruit and mobilize volunteers, develop climate education programs, and participate in professional development opportunities. These projects aim to reduce food waste and food scarcity, alleviate financial burdens for students, and significantly decrease methane emissions in landfills. Additionally, by enriching soil with compost, we aim to sequester carbon dioxide, contributing to a healthier environment for our campus. Through these efforts, we aim to cultivate a new generation of Fresno State Bulldogs passionate about climate careers and dedicated to building a sustainable and more resilient Central Valley. Duties include, but are not limited to: Landscape projects involving trees, native plants, and food crops: select plant and seed varieties, propagate seeds, raise seedlings, tend to plants, remove grass, planting, and maintain converted landscapes. Edible food recovery on campus and in the nearby community: communicate with food retailers, execute pickups and deliveries, and distribute edible food. Organic waste management on campus and in the nearby community: collect organic waste, create compost, educate community members on waste sorting, and apply compost for soil health. Recruit and manage volunteers to support landscape projects, edible food recovery, and food waste management. Develop, promote, and implement educational presentations, demonstrations, and events to inform and engage community in climate action.

Benefits

• $33,600 stipend
• $10,000 education award
• 340 hours of professional development
• Minimum essential healthcare
• Loan forbearance
• Food and childcare assistance (for those eligible)