In July we bid farewell to our AmeriCorps member, Cecilia Kayser. She was an energetic force during her 12-month term, raising JRBP’s educational capacity to new heights, and assisting with anything from events to grant writing to water quality monitoring and beyond! We have so enjoyed working with her the past year and wish her well on her future endeavors.
Cecilia split her time between JRBP and the Missouri Smallflows Organization, hosted by Stream Teams United and supported by AmeriCorps under Grant No. 19VSWMO006.
Read more about her experience through her AmeriCorps story:
AmeriCorps: A Year of Growth and Impact
Over the past 12 months, I had the privilege of serving with the James River Basin Partnership (JRBP) through the AmeriCorps program. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, offering me a diverse range of opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.
Working closely with Brooke Widmar, Education Outreach Coordinator, I had the chance to design and implement my own curriculum tailored for various educational programs. One of the highlights was hosting a career day at Republic High School, where I demonstrated a groundwater model and discussed career opportunities in water quality, environmental stewardship, and AmeriCorps. This event not only engaged students but also sparked their interest in vital environmental careers.
I played a significant role in the “100 Hours Outdoors” initiative, leading a geology-focused hike where explored Busiek State Forest with students, identifying rocks and discussing geological formations. These hands-on experiences were both educational and inspiring for the students, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.
My time with JRBP also provided invaluable insights into the behind-the-scenes workings of large events and grant writing processes. I gained hands-on experience that will undoubtedly benefit my future career in environmental conservation and education. I was able to earn certification as a Level 1 Water Quality Monitor through the Missouri Stream Team program, enhancing my skills and credentials in water quality monitoring.
My AmeriCorps service also allowed me to delve into the field of soil testing and sustainable lawn management. I conducted various soil tests, analyzing soil health and composition to provide valuable insights for community members. Based on these tests, I developed customized lawn management plans aimed at promoting environmentally friendly practices. These plans helped community members understand how to maintain healthy lawns while reducing the use of harmful chemicals and conserving water. This aspect of my role not only enhanced my technical skills but also reinforced the importance of sustainable practices in everyday activities.
Additionally, my role with JRBP provided ample opportunities to develop professional connections. Attending board meetings and monthly meetings at the Watershed Center allowed me to network with key stakeholders and experts in the field of water quality and environmental conservation. These interactions were invaluable, helping me build relationships that will support my future career endeavors. Through these meetings, I gained insights into organizational decision-making and collaborative efforts to protect and preserve our natural resources.
In conclusion, my AmeriCorps service with the James River Basin Partnership has been an enriching journey, filled with versatile experiences that have prepared me for a future in environmental stewardship. This past year has been a testament to the power of education, outreach, and community engagement in making a positive impact on our environment.
