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

Within Upland Unified School District's Nutrition Services, Climate Action Fellows will play a pivotal role in bolstering cafeteria sustainability and advancing the Farm to School program. Through targeted education, outreach, and community engagement initiatives, Fellows will enhance SB 1383 compliance efforts, fostering food recovery and waste reduction within the district and wider Upland community. Fellows will conduct research and implement sustainability initiatives in kitchens and cafeterias to not only minimize waste, but also promote student health and wellness by reducing single-use plastics and harmful chemicals. With a focus on maintaining garden sites and leading after-school garden clubs, Fellows will expand the reach of the Farm to School program, aiming to educate and engage more students and community members in gardening, sustainability, and climate change awareness. Through collaboration, promoting sustainable practices, and sharing climate knowledge, Fellows will make a meaningful impact on the Upland USD school community and beyond. Duties include, but are not limited to: Spearhead SB 1383 compliance efforts at school sites and district buildings. Maintain school garden spaces to bolster the Farm to School program and ensure vibrant and sustainable learning environments. Design and implement composting initiatives to minimize waste while nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Develop curriculum to educate school clubs about topics, such as gardening, sustainability, and climate awareness. Coordinate community education and events to promote climate action engagement, sustainability initiatives, and awareness.

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)