Education & Outreach VISTA

AmeriCorps VISTA – Education & Outreach Summer Associate

Johnson County Conservation • Two Positions Available
Perfect for students who love the outdoors, education, recreation, or environmental work!

Overview

Spend your summer outside making a real impact! Johnson County Conservation provides free, high‑quality outdoor education to thousands of youth and adults each year through field trips, public programs, festivals, camps, and wilderness experiences. As an Education & Outreach Summer VISTA, you’ll help expand access to outdoor learning for low-income youth and families—reducing summer learning loss and increasing opportunities for nature‑based enrichment across the county.

This is an ideal role for students who enjoy being outdoors, working with people, teaching, or leading activities. You’ll gain hands‑on experience in conservation education, program facilitation, communication, and community engagement—all while helping create more equitable access to outdoor recreation.

What You’ll Do

As a Summer VISTA, you will:

• Lead and assist with outdoor recreation and conservation education programs such as guided hikes, wildlife education, kayaking, paddle boarding, and nature exploration
• Support new and expanding partnerships with community groups serving under‑resourced youth and families
• Facilitate programs for both partner groups and the general public across multiple conservation sites
• Help design and promote free enrichment opportunities at parks and nature areas
• Create marketing materials, short videos, and social media content to broaden community awareness and engagement
• Learn about Johnson County’s conservation areas and become part of a team dedicated to inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards

Why You’ll Love This Role

• Spend your summer outdoors exploring parks, trails, lakes, and natural areas
• Gain résumé‑building experience in environmental education, outdoor recreation, communications, and program leadership
• Work with supportive naturalists and conservation educators
• Make a positive impact on youth and families who face barriers to outdoor access
• Earn a VISTA living allowance and an end‑of‑service education award

Who Should Apply

Great for students studying or interested in:
Environmental Science • Biology • Recreation • Education • Outdoor Leadership • Parks & Conservation • Social Work • Communications • Community Engagement

No prior experience needed—just enthusiasm for the outdoors, learning new skills, and connecting with people.

How to Apply

Apply through the MyAmeriCorps portal:
Search Johnson County Conservation – Education & Outreach Summer Associate VISTA