The George Washington Regional Commission is looking for at least one intern this summer.  Applications are due by April 1, 2011.

Regional Planning Internship

Summer 2011 Internship Announcement:

The George Washington Regional Commission, (GWRC) the regional planning district commission serving the City of Fredericksburg and Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties, is seeking a junior or senior college student with an interest in urban and regional planning to intern for the Summer 2011.  Depending on candidate academic and other experience and  schedule flexibility, the Commission may award one or two internships, totaling 32 hours per week, for the Summer, 2011.

Project Areas:

1. Green Infrastructure- Duties will include assisting with GWRC’s development of a green infrastructure plan.  Responsibilities will be research and writing sections of the green infrastructure plan, conducting accompanying GIS analysis, assisting with preparation of monthly steering committee meetings and other public meetings.

1. Home Performance with Energy Star Program- GWRC is in the process of developing a regional residential energy efficiency retrofit program for homeowners of homes 10 years or older in the City of Fredericksburg and Caroline Counties, with household incomes between 50%-120% area median income, or in Stafford and Spotsylvania Counties homeowners of homes 10 years or older, with household incomes above 120% area median income.  Responsibilities will include screening applications for homeowners or contractors to participate and confirm necessary documentation and eligibility, as well as assisting with remaining program development aspects if there are any.

1. Children and Nature Network- Inspiration for the program came from Richard Louv’s book Last Child in the Woods.  Mr. Louv described in the book what he calls “nature deficit disorder” as the result of children spending less time outdoors.  The lack of nature in the lives of today’s children can be linked to trends in childhood obesity, attention deficit disorder, depression and other pediatric health issues.  Three CANN products were developed:   a resource guide of existing places in the Region that could accommodate children and their families, an online map of those places identified, and finally a passport activity aimed at upper elementary school children to give them specific places and activities to complete to get them reacquainted with nature.  Responsibilities will include researching opportunities for funding through grants, foundations, or corporate sponsorships.  Help with development of additional CANN programs such as guided canoe trips in Caroline County, programs during the summer to engage low income children in the use of the passport, etc.

Qualifications:

• Interest and coursework in urban planning/geography.
• Ability to perform research independently.
• Excellent writing and communication skills, including interaction with the general public.
• Proficiency in Office Software Suite is required, GIS experience a plus.

Availability

Up to 32 hours per week for the summer semester.  Depending on candidate(s’) qualifications and schedule flexibility, the Commission reserves the right to split the available hours into 2 internships, if necessary.

Compensation
$11.00 per hr, Commission pays Social Security contribution on behalf of worker.  No health or other benefits apply.

To apply forward cover letter, 2 academic references and resume describing your interest in one or more of the project areas listed above and any relevant coursework or other work or volunteer experience to:

Laurel Hammig

Senior Regional Planner

George Washington Regional Commission

406 Princess Anne St

Fredericksburg, VA 22401

hammig@gwregion.org

Deadline: April 1, 2011