Roots of Kaua`i: About the Program

Kauai-Environment-Interns

Roots Interns Stormy and Nadia hard at work at National Tropical Botanical Garden

New in 2015, program graduates will receive a $500 stipend to be used for starting their business or continuing their education!

The Roots of Kaua`i Green Careers Certificate program launched summer 2014, aimed at supporting young adults on Kaua`i, age 18-35, who have a genuine interest in building a sustainable career that benefits them and the future of our island home. The program consists of 80 hours of classroom education for 10 weeks.

Classes include a variety of interactive discussions, educational documentaries, and individual and group projects to engage students in critical thinking on environmental issues, solutions and related career opportunities. Our goals are for every student to leave our program with a successful career plan that involves entering a green field of employment, continuing their higher education, starting a green business, and/or continuing their civic engagement and volunteerism.

Environmental topics covered include:

  • Green Careers 101
  • Water
  • Waste
  • Transportation
  • Energy
  • Building
  • Health, Food & Agriculture
  • Conservation
  • Community Organizing & Leadership
  • Financial Literacy & Social Entrepreneurship

Career development topics include:

  • Self-Assessment & Career Planning 101
  • Resume Writing
  • Interview Preparation
  • Networking & Informational Interviews
  • Succeeding on the Job
  • Promoting Yourself Online
  • Portfolio Development
  • Salary Negotiation
  • Career Planning for the Future
  • Starting a Business on Kauai, by the Small Business Development Center

Students are also required to complete a 100-hour internship within a green or sustainability-focused organization, and a business plan and pitch for a community project or green business. All students will receive ongoing career services support as they create their future and shape the future of Kaua`i.

This entire program is offered free of charge to participating students by our generous partners who have invested in the future of Kaua`i’s economic and environmental sustainability. If you are interested in participating, you may contact [email protected] for more information.

 

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