Overview

ABOUT KUPU

Established in 2007, Kupu empowers future generations to create a more sustainable, pono Hawai’i. We provide hands-on training programs that educate and mentor youth to become stewards of our culture and environment, helping them develop a strong connection to the place in which we live. In doing so, we strive to fulfill our mission to empower youth to serve their communities through character-building, service-learning, and environmental stewardship opportunities that encourage pono (integrity) with Ke Akua (God), self, and others.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Environmental Education Leadership Development Program (EELDP) was created to meet the growing demand for environmental education in public schools on O’ahu.  Participants are college graduates, ages 21 and over, with various academic backgrounds that prepare them to engage young students in activities relating to the natural world.  They are placed at one or more schools to provide innovative ways to inspire their students’ curiosity about Hawai’i’s natural and cultural resources.

Across the island, participants have helped implement school gardens and recycling programs, build aquaponics and hydroponics systems, provide support for outdoor field trips, create curriculum to increase scientific exploration and environmental literacy, and connected youth to mentoring opportunities through a state-led forest restoration program.  Participants also receive a living allowance and an AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion.
Program Dates:  September 2019 – August 2020 (exact start and end dates to be determined).
The priority deadline for this application is July 1, 2019.
BENEFITS
  • Earn up to a $1,600 monthly living allowance (subject to taxes) and a $6,095 Education Award (similar to a scholarship) towards higher education
  • Opportunity for interest earned on certain educational loans (during the program term) to be paid for by AmeriCorps
  • Complete over 1700 hours of environmental community service
  • Health care and childcare benefits (if eligible)
  • Receive hands-on environmental education, leadership training, CPR/1st Aid training, and valuable life skills
  • Network with mentors in the conservation and education fields
  • Serve as a positive role model and mentor to youth
  • Help protect Hawaii’s natural resources and make a positive impact in your community!
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Complete the Online Application
    Please read ALL instructions and answer questions to the best of your ability. Application must be received by the deadline.
  2. Submit 2 Letters of Recommendation
    Applicants must have two letters of recommendation by the deadline. References must be non-relatives.
Your application will be considered incomplete until all parts have been received.  If you have any questions, please contact us at (808) 735-1221 ext. 2008 or education@kupuhawaii.org.