Virginia Service and Conservation Corps Interpretive Guide Program
The VSCC Interpretive Guide AmeriCorps members will serve 450 hours between May 3, 2024, and August 16, 2024, in select Virginia State Parks. These VSCC AmeriCorps members play a crucial role in connecting individuals with the natural, historical, and cultural treasures that define Virginia's diverse landscapes. By passionately sharing knowledge and creating impactful interpretive programs, VSCC members not only contribute to the preservation of Virginia state parks but also empower communities to become stewards of their surroundings. The VSCC experience transcends traditional service, offering a unique platform for personal growth, professional development and the opportunity to make a lasting positive impact on the environment and the lives of those they serve.
This position is made for someone interested in sharing their love and passion for the outdoors with others. Join us in building a sustainable future, where education, conservation and community engagement intersect to create meaningful change.
A VSCC Interpretive Guide in Virginia State Parks is an AmeriCorps member who is responsible for providing meaningful educational experiences for park guests. The interpreter's role involves conveying the significance of the park's natural, historical and cultural resources to visitors. This is achieved through the development and presentation of educational and interpretive programs, activities and experiences.
The interpreter plays a vital role in connecting visitors with the outdoors, sharing knowledge about the park's natural and cultural resources, and promoting responsible recreation ethics. The goal is to enhance the overall experience of park guests by offering accurate and concise information, fostering an appreciation for the environment and encouraging stewardship of the park's resources.
Specific responsibilities of an interpreter may include leading or assisting with interpretive programs such as guided hikes, canoe/kayak tours, campfires, children's programs and wildlife programs. The interpreter also engages in community outreach by providing information about upcoming programs and volunteer opportunities, thus encouraging participation and involvement from the local community.
Interpreters are expected to actively contribute to the achievement of the state park's goals, track progress and collect evaluation data to measure program performance. Overall, an interpreter in Virginia state parks serves as an educational ambassador, promoting environmental awareness, conservation and a positive outdoor experience for park visitors.
VSCC AmeriCorps members will receive a living allowance of $9,152 (pre-tax) that will be dispersed in bi-weekly increments and are eligible for an education award of $1,824.07 at completion of service.
Members will receive trainings such as:
Interpretation training through online and in person workshops
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training
Leave No Trace Principles
Canoe/kayak training (site dependent)
Members will also have access to the AmeriCorps Member Assistance Program for in-the-moment health counseling services.
Non-tangible benefits include leadership development, public speaking skills, valuable experience, networking and the opportunity to serve the local community.
Interpretive Guide members serving a 450-hour commitment in 2024 receive biweekly living stipends during service and an education award determined by the Pell Grant upon completion of the service commitment. This commitment runs from May 3, 2024 through August 16, 2024. Members serve from 35-40 hours per week, including occasional nights, weekends and holidays.
Interpretive Guide members also connect citizens with conservation and further the mission to conserve Virginia's natural, scenic, historic and cultural resources through recreational and educational opportunities consistent with stewardship of land, water, and facilities.
Personally, I find AmeriCorps to be a great opportunity not only to gain experience in the realm of natural resources but also to give back to the communities our state parks serve. Serving at Pocahontas State Park has been an enriching experience for me. During my two service terms at Pocahontas, I have certainly broadened my skill set, interacted with amazing people and organizations, and have developed a deeper love and understanding of the forest, animals and waterways that make central Virginia a unique place to call home. Without a doubt I would recommend this program to anyone looking to gain experience with state parks. Moreover, I would say this program is for anyone who loves to interact with a diverse and ever-changing group of individuals and enjoys educating those people on the diverse and ever-changing world around us.
I have gotten much more comfortable talking to new people, starting conversations with people, and slowly learning how to have more confidence/backbone with people. I have learned my love for environmental outreach and education.
I completed the 675-hour Interpretation/Trails program at First Landing State Park. Under this program, I worked at the park from May to September. The programs the park offered were wide-ranging and offered interpreters many opportunities to connect with guests and their families. My favorite programs were the ones where the whole family could participate. Guided Hikes, Campfires, and crabbing were my personal favorites. Being an interpreter allows you to teach, connect, and have fun with guests visiting the park. This opportunity gave me the chance to intimately know the park, connect with guests from all backgrounds, and gain confidence in myself. I highly suggest this program to anyone that wants to give back to the community while working in a park setting.
A VSCC Interpretive Guide in Virginia State Parks is an AmeriCorps member who is responsible for providing meaningful educational experiences for park guests. The interpreter's role involves conveying the significance of the park's natural, historical and cultural resources to visitors. This is achieved through the development and presentation of educational and interpretive programs, activities and experiences.
Personally, I find AmeriCorps to be a great opportunity not only to gain experience in the realm of natural resources but also to give back to the communities our state parks serve. Serving at Pocahontas State Park has been an enriching experience for me. During my two service terms at Pocahontas, I have certainly broadened my skill set, interacted with amazing people and organizations, and have developed a deeper love and understanding of the forest, animals and waterways that make central Virginia a unique place to call home. Without a doubt I would recommend this program to anyone looking to gain experience with state parks. Moreover, I would say this program is for anyone who loves to interact with a diverse and ever-changing group of individuals and enjoys educating those people on the diverse and ever-changing world around us.
I have gotten much more comfortable talking to new people, starting conversations with people, and slowly learning how to have more confidence/backbone with people. I have learned my love for environmental outreach and education.
