Are you passionate about disability rights and accessibility in National Parks? Do you identify as differently abled yourself? As a Youth Empowerment Steward (YES), you will focus on barriers to entry for individuals with disabilities in the outdoor workplace. Stewards, in partnership with Acadia National Park, are seeking a YES intern who will play a critical role in helping Acadia National Park, better serve our local communities by improving accessibility for patrons and staff.

Apply by April 5th for this 20-week internship opportunity (starting May 13th), where you will contribute to Acadia's busy and creative Interpretive Media Team, with emphasis on programmatic accessibility and inclusivity initiatives.

YES Interns will carefully research and create detailed site descriptions and still image photo galleries of all significant park facilities and destinations that are crafted to the specific perspective of individuals with disabilities. Collecting, documenting, and communicating these features will better assist individuals with disabilities in knowing what to expect as they prepare to visit Acadia National Park. The YES Intern will expand upon the content on: http://go.nps.gov/AcadiaAccessibility

YES Intern will also help the team produce “equitable alternative experience” projects for people with disabilities who are not able to access or fully perceive a particular park resource or activity. For instance, the intern may help write and record descriptions of new artwork for an accessible tour of all the pieces displayed publicly for the Artist-in-Residence gallery spaces.

This YES Intern will also contribute to resources and training opportunities for frontline interpretive staff and supervisors at Acadia National Park to raise awareness about the perspectives, preferences, and life experiences of people with disabilities. As a specific outcome, we expect staff to explore and incorporate more inclusive tradecraft and techniques in their interpretive ranger walks, talks, and campground programs.

This internship pays $15/hr and provides park housing. It is open to US citizens (or lawful permanent residents) aged 18-30, or a veteran up to age 35. Upon completion, participants will be eligible for an AmeriCorps Education Award and Public Lands hiring authority.

Applications accepted through April 5, 2024. Apply here: Acadia Youth Empowerment Steward Application

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