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

The City of Modesto Solid Waste Division leads the City 's efforts in waste reduction and landfill diversion, vital for climate change mitigation. Fellows can choose from programs such as Edible Food Recovery, Organics Collection, Compost Facility Outreach, and Tree Planting initiatives, all aligning with our sustainability goals. Methane pollution, a major contributor to climate change, is significantly reduced through these efforts, benefiting both the environment and our community's food security. Our initiative "Modesto Rethinks Waste" aims to divert organics and edible food from landfills, with education, outreach, and waste inspections being key components. Fellows will identify barriers hindering waste separation and food donation, devising action plans to promote compliance with regulations. With diverse focus areas and hands-on experience in outreach, waste management, food recovery, and urban forestry, Fellows will have an enriching and impactful experience, blending community engagement with office tasks for a dynamic role. Duties include, but are not limited to: Educate and engage youth, residents, and businesses in waste separation best practices through targeted outreach efforts. Cultivate relationships with local businesses to expand and strengthen the Edible Food Recovery Program and empower food generators with strategies to minimize food waste. Conduct outreach to neighboring cities, farmers, and landscapers to promote composting facility utilization and organic waste diversion. Construct supporting documentation for programs 'such as food donation tracking forms, contractual agreements educational and outreach materials - to build capacity. Coordinate and execute tree planting initiatives to enhance green spaces 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)