Seeking AmeriCorps members to promote healthy schools in the northeast Iowa area

The Northeast Iowa Food and Fitness Initiative, or FFI, in partnership with Luther College in Decorah are accepting applications for the anticipated 2014-15 AmeriCorps positions.
The AmeriCorps service members will join a team of enthusiastic people working in more than 16 schools throughout northeast Iowa to promote healthier school environments. Members will serve one or two districts within northeast Iowa as they integrate healthy living into school culture through modeling and education.
Members will develop youth leadership programs and deepen community investment in local healthy food access and opportunities for physical activity. As part of their service, members will support school gardens, encourage Safe Routes to School and integrate Farm to School activities across their assigned district.
Luther College is the host organization for the AmeriCorps State of Iowa 4-H positions. AmeriCorps members will live and serve within school districts across northeast Iowa transforming school environments to be healthier for students and models for their communities. Membership is open to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents age 17 and older.
On the ground, members will assist with school gardens, conduct nutrition and health education, and coordinate and train others to be leaders in this work. Members will deepen the understanding for students, teachers and staff about the benefits of growing and consuming healthy, green, affordable food and being physically active.
With coaching, members will become a resource for school wellness committees in one or two districts and provide active programming that infuses healthy living into school culture.
AmeriCorps members may live within one of the following communities in the six-county region: Elkader, West Union, Oelwein and/or New Hampton. When not working in their community, members can expect to work from the Environmental Studies department at Luther College where they will have office space including a desk, computer and phone, and will be able to connect with other folks doing similar service.
The term of service is September 1, 2014 through August 31, 2015. Luther College is currently accepting applications on a rolling basis and positions will remain open until filled. Applicants may submit an electronic letter of interest and a resume highlighting experiences and rationale to Emily Neal, director of School Outreach at Luther College, nealem01@luther.edu.
For more information on the collaboration between Northeast Iowa Food and Fitness and AmeriCorps go online to www.iowafoodandfitness.org.