Master Recycler Volunteer Description

Master Composter/Master Recycler Volunteer Description Purpose: Master Composters/Recyclers Volunteers work in partnership with the Cornell Cooperative Extension to educate the public and foster enthusiasm for waste reduction, composting, and recycling. They help to extend the reach of the programming offered by the Cooperative Extension and they work toward accomplishing the goals of the Schenectady County Recycles program. Anticipated Audience/Location: Master Composters work with both adults and youth in various locations throughout Schenectady County communities. Responsibilities:  Regularly meet with designated Extension staff members and other volunteers to plan events, share information, and prepare for programs, presentations, or events  Plan and co-teach classes, presentations, or demonstrations with content related to recycling, composting, waste reduction, or related topics  Create, assemble, and offer activities, illustrations, resources or handouts that accommodate many different learning styles  Set up and staff interactive displays at community events  Give outreach education at recycling stations during community events  Provide technical assistance to backyard composters  Connect people to resources for learning where and how to recycle, dispose, or donate various items in Schenectady County  Ensure that attendance is taken at events/programs and reported to the Extension  Notify the Extension staff of any incidents or unusual happenings during events or programs Training 24 hours of professional development and educational training in the form of ten (2 hour) sessions and two (2 hour) fieldtrips. Training sessions will be held Thursday evenings starting the last week in August and running through the end of October. Training sessions and field trips will cover a wide variety of topics related to environmental science and technology, the benefits, uses, and methods of composting, recycling, waste reduction, pollution prevention, as well as professional development skills related to community outreach. Training sessions will include some hands-on activities and will feature many guests who will speak about their professional experiences related to composting and waste reduction.

Fee: A one-time fee of $45 is due before the first training session. This one-time fee will be used to help cover the cost of teaching materials, supplies, and refreshments. Checks may be payable to Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schenectady County with Master Composter/Recycler listed as the memo. A limited number of scholarships are available for this program. You may request consideration for scholarship support on your volunteer application. Volunteer Commitment: After completion of the training sessions, volunteers are asked to share their knowledge with members of the community in the form of 30 service hours towards Schenectady County Recycles community education and outreach programs. Activities listed in the Responsibilities section are not considered a complete list of possible volunteer opportunities, and Master Composters/Recyclers may also work to develop independent projects. Program Support: Master Composters/Recyclers will receive program support from the Master Composter Coordinator, Angelina Peone, Recycling and Composting Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schenectady County. Reporting:  Volunteer Log at Event (noting name, date of service, and hours of service) to record your time and any other workers who assisted  Attendance record for workshops, programs, demonstrations Qualifications:  Basic interest or knowledge related to environmental science, sustainability, recycling, or composting and a willingness to learn new concepts related to these subjects  Enthusiasm to learn and share their knowledge and skills with others  Is effective in teaching while accommodating a diversity of learning styles  Must be able to commit to 24 hours of training and 30 annual service hours  Must be able to transport self and program materials to various locations throughout Schenectady County  Is effective in communication, organization, and interpersonal skills  Dependable and skilled in time management  Must be able to pass a criminal background check

Benefits   

Derive personal satisfaction from working to improve environmental sustainability in Schenectady County communities Enhance personal communication, leadership, and time management skills Derive satisfaction from helping diverse individuals learn about environmental topics

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Build friendships with other MCR volunteers Opportunity to build resume with unique community service experiences

Application Deadline Complete a Volunteer Application Form available at: www.cceschenectady.org/recycling/mastercomposter-master-recycler Return the signed volunteer job description and the completed volunteer application to the CCE,SC office before August 11th 2017 Return applications electronically by sending an email to [email protected] or mail them to:

Angelina Peone Recycling & Composting Educator Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schenectady County Schaffer Heights 107 Nott Terrace Suite 301 Schenectady NY 12308