“Even though Latinos are the fastest growing population, our nation’s workforce doesn’t currently represent all diverse populations, especially in conservation,” said Maite Arce, president and CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation. “We hope this partnership with Parks California provides an opportunity for students from all backgrounds to gain valuable experience leading to a career in conservation.”

East Bay Regional Park District manages and operates three California State Parks: McLaughlin East Shore State Park, Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach, and Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area. During the internship, they will spend most of their time devoted to on-the-ground work at, and/or program planning for, and/or data analysis for these three state parks. Hispanic Access will handle the recruiting of these professionals, providing them with career guidance, managing their insurance, housing stipends, wages and transportation funds, and facilitating membership in a broader national cohort and post-internship alumni network of MANO Project conservation interns.

“Engaging young people in diverse communities in the conservation workforce is one of the MANO Project’s core goals,” said Nina Marti, Director of the MANO Project program. “Our work is about the next generation of leaders. This unique experience provides extensive training, mentoring and professional development to ensure students have the tools and knowledge needed to excel in their fellowship and a career in conservation.”

Parks California’s unique multi-stakeholder partnership approach strengthens communities while fostering love and stewardship of public lands. The Career Pathways grant will help expand training pathways to careers in parks and public lands. Parks California was founded as a key nonprofit partner of the California Department of Parks and Recreation to help strengthen and inspire all to experience these extraordinary places. For more information, visit the https://manoproject.org.