RamCorps Horticulture Outreach Specialist

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Job Description ## Position Summary This member will serve as an ambassador of promoting the land-grant mission of fostering the accessibility and application of university knowledge “in the several pursuits and professions in life” for the people and communities of Denver and beyond. They will work on developing, strengthening and delivering youth and adult programs emphasizing horticulture, sustainability, and natural resources.

For youth audiences, the aim is to provide children with the tools to pursue a career in natural resources, environmental sciences, or other STEM fields. For adult audiences, the aim is to provide folks with knowledge of Colorado’s ecosystems.  Additionally, members will support Master Gardeners and the Horticulture specialist throughout the season and act as liaisons between the public and Denver Extension to cultivate engagement between gardeners, growers, and the broader community.

Members will serve as program activators, building deeper connections with community gardens and programs, leading events, and participating in workdays and infrastructure projects throughout the network.

Term of Service/Time Commitment This is a three-quarter-time national and community service position requiring, at a minimum, a total of 1200 hours from March through the end of service term in December (approximately 30 hours/week). Members will frequently need to maintain flexible hours Monday-Friday, including serving occasional weekends and evenings. The position begins in March 2026 and ends in December 2026.Location

and Service Conditions The Denver Extension office is located at Harvard Gulch Park in the Rosedale neighborhood in Denver. Members serving are expected to have an ability and willingness to serve in a team setting and to promote collaboration and respect. Members will regularly need to use a computer for e-mail communication, program coordination, and online reporting. Members serving in this role will thrive if they are personable, positive, and have a passion for community building and service.

Members should note that service in this position will sometimes include working on projects or programs outdoors in varied weather conditions.

Ameri Corps members are required to wear Ameri Corps identity items such as name tag, T-shirts, and lapel pins during all Ameri Corps service. The member serving in this role must have a willingness to work long hours with occasional evening and weekend duties (work based on a 40-hour work week).Training and Support Provided
* Members receive significant training and experience in community engagement, project implementation, leadership, diverse populations, and more.
* Up to 20% (or 240 hours) of total hours served may be spent in applicable approved trainings.
* Members are expected to participate in ongoing trainings and events as required and requested by Ameri Corps, CSU Extension, and/or Denver Urban Gardens.
* Members will be supervised and supported by Isabel Mendoza, Denver County Extension Director, as well as by Melinda Macpherson, Ram Corps Program Manager,
** melinda.macpherson**. The cohort of members serving throughout the region will act as additional resources and support for each other.

Program Benefits
* A living allowance of approximately $741.81 for full time per pay period on a bi-weekly cycle for an approximate total of $16,320 for the term of service. Taxes are deducted and the living allowance is distributed via direct deposit to the member.
* An education award of $5,176.50 earned upon successful completion of term of service.
* It is possible to temporarily postpone repayment of qualified student loans through forbearance while serving as an Ameri Corps member.
* Possible mileage reimbursement for travel to required trainings and days of service.
* Access to ongoing professional development trainings and resources through the university.
* Experience working with professionals in the field with on the ground training.
* Non-tangible benefits including making a difference in a community, valuable networking opportunities, and serving the local community in an identified area of need.
* Alumni benefits include…