Sustainability Engagement 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

California State University, Northridge (CSUN) seeks 8 Sustainability Engagement Fellows to spearhead comprehensive sustainability initiatives to enhance campus resilience and promote environmental stewardship. Through a multifaceted approach, Fellows will collaborate within teams focused on sustainable agriculture, zero waste management, and social justice advocacy to lead transformative initiatives that address pressing environmental challenges while fostering a culture of sustainability and social responsibility within the CSUN community. Fellows will have the opportunity to communicate their preferred focus area(s) during the interview process and, if selected, will be assigned to a team that aligns with their experience, preferences, and career aspirations. By promoting regenerative agriculture, waste reduction, and social equity, Fellows will contribute to creating a more resilient and environmentally conscious campus community. In turn, this fosters a profound connection to the environment, producing a new generation of environmental activists and, ultimately leading to an exponential impact on the broader community and beyond. Duties include, but are not limited to: Implement sustainable agriculture projects - including urban farming, native plant propagation, and seed saving - and cultivate, monitor, and harvest seasonal produce to increase access to fresh, local produce. Engage volunteers in service-learning events, workshops, and networking opportunities on soil health, composting, regenerative farming, and closed-loop food systems to expand sustainability on campus and highlight the importance of resilient ecosystems. Implement food waste reduction initiatives, collaborating with stakeholders on waste reduction laws and composting innovations, conducting door-to-door waste assessments, and training campus staff in high food waste areas like dining, housing, and events. Coordinate food recovery programs, supporting CSUN's food recovery notification system and recovered food procurement policies, and facilitating the annual Food Recovery Forum to foster collaborative efforts in food recovery. Craft compelling content across digital and print platforms to educate and engage the campus community on sustainable agriculture practices and food systems and raise awareness about climate change, sustainability, and social justice issues. Explore sustainable strategies to advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) on campus in relation to climate mitigation tactics and sustainability.

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)