Zero Waste 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

Join the San Jose Conservation Corps (SJCC) as a Zero Waste Fellow and take a leading role in combatting climate change by addressing food waste and promoting sustainability in our community. As a Zero Waste Fellow, you'll spearhead innovative initiatives, managing food rescue operations and developing the SJCC 's Community Market into a vibrant hub of sustainability and community engagement. We - re transforming our area food system by partnering with local grocery stores to rescue edible food and diverting it to those in need, while minimizing their climate impact. Fellows will also manage composting efforts, engaging the community in climate action, and fostering environmental stewardship. Through zero waste educational workshops and effective volunteer coordination, Fellows will empower our diverse community to take meaningful action towards building a more sustainable, resilient future. Duties include, but are not limited to: Lead food recovery efforts, identify potential food redistribution partners, and implement programs to maximize food rescued - including packaging meals for community support and hosting community cook-outs, using rescued ingredients to spark culinary inspiration. Spearhead community composting initiatives, overseeing the management and maintenance of composting facilities. Develop and deliver engaging climate-focused workshops and presentations with educational materials and activities to engage diverse audiences in food rescue and composting initiatives. Coordinate volunteer opportunities, managing recruitment, communications, and event support, fostering a culture of community engagement and environmental stewardship. Craft content to promote volunteer events and programs through social media, community outreach, and marketing channels, aiming to raise awareness and engagement.

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)