The City of Tampa is excited to announce the launch of its Green Team. This is the first city-sponsored environmental stewardship program, funded by AmeriCorps, in the State of Florida. This program, developed in partnership with Volunteer Florida and AmeriCorps, will provide members the opportunity to work alongside City of Tampa staff and associated non-profits to make the community and Earth a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable place.
The 20 new AmeriCorps Members of Tampa's Green Team will plant and maintain Tampa’s tree canopy, reduce marine litter, enhance community gardens, and provide climate change education. They will serve a minimum of 900 hours between January 2023 and July 2023. Each AmeriCorps member will receive a monthly living stipend of $2,100 over the 30 weeks, as well as a $3,447.50 Educational Award upon completing the service year.
In addition, members may be eligible for federal student loan forbearance, professional development opportunities, and career advancement opportunities.
"We are thrilled to be launching the Green Team, and we have found some of the most dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their community and the environment," Mayor Jane Castor said. "This is a unique opportunity for individuals to serve their community, gain valuable professional experience, and make a positive impact on the world around them."
"By working together with AmeriCorps members and non-profits, we can take real action to create a more sustainable and resilient Tampa,” said Whit Remer, City of Tampa's Sustainability & Resiliency Officer. “This program is just the first step in our efforts to build a more sustainable future for our city, and we can't wait to see the great things that the Green Team will accomplish."
For more information and to apply for next year's Green Team group, visit tampa.gov/greenteam.
About Volunteer Florida: Volunteer Florida is a non-profit organization that serves as the state's lead agency for volunteering and national service. Through partnerships with non-profits, schools, businesses, and government agencies, Volunteer Florida helps to connect Floridians of all ages with opportunities to make a difference in their communities through service.
About AmeriCorps: AmeriCorps is a national service program that engages more than 75,000 Americans in intensive service each year at non-profits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. Members commit to service full or part-time and receive a living allowance and education award upon successful completion of their service.