Roots for the Future program coordinator, contract
Environmental Initiative is a nonprofit organization working to advance social equity and environmental health. We do this by:
Convening and facilitating conversations between diverse stakeholders to address environmental, economic, and public health issues.
Managing on-the-ground projects to improve our air, land, and water.
Planning and hosting events for environmental leaders from nonprofits, communities, businesses, and government agencies to share information, network, and learn from one another.
We believe building relationships, collaboration, and working across differences are the keys to fostering an inclusive, just, and thriving world.
Environmental Initiative is seeking a program coordinator to provide part-time (30 hours per week) contract program support between June – Aug. 2025.
How to apply
Complete an online application and upload your resume.
Priority deadline: June 13, 2025.
Position summary
The program coordinator will assist in day-to-day program activities in Roots for the Future, helping facilitate workshops and maintain a welcoming and organized environment.
Roots for the Future is an environmental justice youth internship program designed to introduce high school students to green careers, leadership, and community action. Youth participants will explore climate issues, urban forestry, and sustainability through hands-on learning, field trips, and career development.
This role is ideal for a college student or young adult interested in:
- Youth work and environmental education and programming.
- Developing leadership and facilitation skills.
- Being part of a movement to uplift youth and advance equity in the green workforce.
Position responsibilities
- Assist with daily program needs: set-up, mealtime, and clean-up/closing for the day.
- Support youth during activities, field trips, and group work.
- Help lead small group discussions and journaling sessions.
- Track supplies, attendance, and participation.
- Collaborate with the program manager and director to implement the curriculum.
- Foster an inclusive, positive, and safe environment for youth.
Qualifications, desired skills, and experience
- Must be 18 or older.
- Interested in environmental justice, youth development, or education.
- Reliable, organized, and adaptable.
- Friendly and respectful communication style.
- Willing to learn and support all program areas.
- Must agree to a background check. Hiring is dependent on the results.
Physical requirements
This role is primarily in-person in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area. Occasional lifting, moving, or transporting materials weighing up to 30 pounds may be expected, and accommodation can be made if necessary for accessibility.
Compensation
The program coordinator will be paid at a rate of $23 per hour. This position is not an employee of Environmental Initiative, but an independent contractor. A 1099-NEC form will be sent in 2026 for tax purposes.
Environmental Initiative values a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourages Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply for staff or contracted positions. Environmental Initiative is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are not discriminated against based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, disability, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, or any protected category prohibited by federal, state, or local laws.