2023 Job Shadow Summer Teen Volunteer Program
Founded in 1992, Hermann Park Conservancy (HPC) is a nonprofit citizens’ organization dedicated to the stewardship and improvement of Hermann Park, one of Houston’s largest and most loved urban parks. Hermann Park Conservancy’s Job Shadow Program provides high school students the opportunity to observe and participate in a variety of conservation related activities. The Job Shadow Program enhances understanding of careers in non-profit management and environmental conservation. The experience also gives teens the opportunity to work alongside HPC employees who serve as mentors answering questions and providing career-related advice.
Volunteers will be expected to:
· Provide written parental/guardian permission, on the first day of attending, the parent/guardian must sign the teen in on our Parental/Guardian approval form, this takes just a few minutes.
· Understand that all activities take place outdoors. Activities will vary and may include habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and urban forestry maintenance.
· Parents or guardians must register their teen the first day they attend by taking a few moments to sign their teen in on HPC’s Parental Signature Form.
· Come prepared: wear appropriate clothing, long pants or knee length, shirt with sleeves, and closed toe shoes (no shorts above the knee, no tank tops, not flip-flops/sandals). A sun-hat, is recommended.
· Bring a filled reuseable water bottle. Sunscreen/insect repellent is recommended, it will also be provided.
· Limit your cell phone use. You are welcome to have your cell phone with you, however, it must not be used during volunteer service.
Requirements:
· 15 to 17 years of age. (If you are over 18, please join us for our weekly individual volunteer projects on Saturdays)
· An appreciation for conservation, parks, wildlife and plants
· Commit to a minimum of 20 hrs. within the 5-week period
· Complete a volunteer application
· Punctual, responsible and respectful of others
· Parent/Guardian signed release form (waiver & photo release, and application)
Summer Dates: July 6th to August 5th and George Hermann’s celebration on Sunday August 6th, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Job Shadow volunteers meet each Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at the Volunteer Center near the pedal boat kiosk, location is 6106 Hermann Park Dr., 77030. It is not mandatory to come each day, however, if you are later than 45 minutes, please come the next day at the appropriate time. Volunteers will assist with conservation and restoration tasks in various areas in the Park. Tasks may include things as painting, de-littering, invasive removal, weeding, pruning, stream cleaning, trail repairs, seeding and planting. No experience is necessary. Program hours and dates are subject to change.
Please email Cinnamon Baldwin at cbaldwin@hermannpark.org for more information.
