MIDDLETOWN- Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County has opened applications for its new Intergenerational Master Community Builder Program. Following the model of other Master Volunteer programs, individuals are expertly trained to apply frameworks, strategies, and tools to create resilient and just communities in their professional fields, interests, and environments.
Julika von Stackelberg, Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension, expresses her enthusiasm for participation said, “If you are interested in personal growth and volunteering to support communities related to public and mental health, climate change, community and economic vitality, equity, education, public safety, and public policy- this program is for you!”
This diverse program integrates backgrounds of educators, human services providers, mental health and health care providers, business leaders and professionals, law enforcement, community leaders, faith-based community leaders, and members, community activists, policymakers, and community members at large.
The program’s monthly sessions focus on a specific topic that is shared by faculty members from different fields. The cost of the program is $300 and has scholarships available. The 10-month program confers a certificate from Cornell University granting five continuing education units. Certificate and continuing education units will be issued upon completion.
Sessions will take place on the first Saturday of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a Zoom session every second Tuesday of the month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The program is set to begin October 7, 2023, and runs through July.
The Master Community Builder Program framework follows in line with other Master Volunteer programs; building community capacity through volunteer services. To build capacity in Orange County, all participants must volunteer at least 20 hours within one year upon completing the program.
Read the full article here