Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the posting time of this position. For questions, please reach out to Amber Mande, Visitor Services Manager - amber.mande@natureplacelacrosse.org

Service Description: The primary role of this position is commitment to successful daily operation of The Nature Place (TNP) with emphasis on caring for the gardens and grounds and engaging the community in land stewardship. Gain hands-on knowledge and experience working with plants and insects native to this area. Assist in developing and increasing our reach in terms of community engagement and provide a long-lasting sense of appreciation and stewardship for the land.

Responsibilities:

  • Gardens & Grounds
    • Assist with the maintenance and care of the gardens and grounds, including 5 acres of park space, 7 native gardens, and demonstration produce garden
    • Work independently to complete daily tasks, which include: transplanting, weeding, trimming tall plants, watering, etc.
    • Assist in designing and creating displays for the native gardens kiosk
    • Assist in developing/implementing seasonal garden plans
    • Collaborate with fellow AmeriCorps members from other teams to implement TNP’s mission through a variety of programs.
    • Complete program and event record keeping and evaluations, as needed
  • The Nature Place Operations
    • Assist with the proper critter care and handling of live education animals
    • Ensure TNP policies and safety procedures are followed
    • Assist with facility-related needs for Gardens & Grounds and The Nature Place operations
    • Assist with front desk duties, including opening/closing TNP during the winter season.
    • Welcome and engage visitors to The Nature Place and assist them in navigating the public space, exhibits, and programming
    • Assist with facility-wide events, as needed and available
    • Purchase supplies and equipment, following established budgetary procedures
  • Garden Volunteer Program
    • Facilitate and support seasonal garden volunteer program
    • Coordinate and train unpaid, non-AmeriCorps volunteers
    • Make sure appropriate records of volunteer hours are kept
  • Marketing
    • Assist in designing and creating publicity for TNP gardens and land stewardship projects and/or programs
    • Develop and write up to 2 blog posts throughout service term
  • Capstone Project
    • 1700 hour AmeriCorps Members will have the opportunity to develop a significant program series or select a project that will leave a lasting contribution within their program area, the department, or the organization (does not apply to 450 hour positions).

AmeriCorps

This is an AmeriCorps Position (What is AmeriCorps?).

AmeriCorps Provides Additional Benefits:

  • AmeriCorps Education Award. You can use the award to repay qualified student loans and to pay for current educational expenses at eligible institutions of higher education and training programs.
  • Professional networking opportunities, mentorship, and experience to help grow your career
  • Make a difference in the community
  • Be a part of a dedicated service team
  • Opportunity for loan forbearance on qualified student loans
  • Free access to Employee Assistance Program includes phone/text/video call counselor service and other resources
  • Health insurance option (1 year/1700 hr positions only, who are not already covered)
  • You may be eligible for AmeriCorps child care public assistance
  • Access to on-site food pantry and laundry facilities

Site Overview

The Nature Place (TNP) is a nature-focused community center open to the public, located in beautiful Myrick Park in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Our mission is to inspire and cultivate meaningful connections between people and nature, for the benefit of both. We offer nature education programs and community events for all ages and our unique space is available to visit during open hours or to rent for special events and meetings.

The Nature Place occupies Native American ancestral land. Read our Land Acknowledgement here: natureplacelacrosse.org/about/land-acknowledgement

Trainings

  • All Members serving at TNP
    • AmeriCorps Orientation (timekeeping training, member prohibited activities, how to use your Education Award)
    • The Nature Place orientation
    • Educational Animal training
    • First Aid/CPR/AED
    • Conflict Resolution
    • Sexual Harassment training
    • Additional training tailored to your position
  • 1700 & 1200 Hour members receive additional training throughout the year, which may include career exploration or learning experiences, field trips, participation in National Days of Service, and other training or professional development opportunities.

Qualifications:

  • Willingness to learn various conservation practices or land management techniques
  • Experience or interest in working with the public and/or volunteers
  • Passionate about environmental causes and being a part of the community surrounding environmental service
  • Strong communication skills a plus
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 20 lbs
  • Ability to use garden tools (ie. Wheelbarrow, shovel, trowel, pruning shears, etc.)
  • Ability to work primarily on your feet/standing/crouching
  • Willing to learn and implement strategies for creating and maintaining a welcoming work and community environment
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Comfortable with learning how to care for and handle live education animals including amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, a plus
  • Dependable; able to fulfill commitment to term of service
  • Willing and able to follow and implement The Nature Place’s policies and procedures
  • NSOPW, FBI, and State(s) Criminal History Checks will be conducted and position is contingent upon a review of those results. The member will have the opportunity to review any results. This position will have recurring access to vulnerable populations. We encourage this not to deter anyone from applying and to ask questions to better understand what this means.

TNP provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@natureplace or Wisconsin Relay 711.

Apply Online
PDF Application

Details

1Summer Positions​ 
CLOSED

 

1 Year Term Positions 
Sept 9, 2026 - Aug 20, 2027

30hrs/wk average Sept-Jan
40hrs/wk average Feb-Aug

1700 total hrs required before end date

$470/wk living stipend; $25,500 annually

$7,395.00 = estimate Education Award upon successful completion of service​

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