OPAL Environmental Justice Oregon

As a Training Coordinator at OPAL Environmental Justice Oregon in Portland, Oregon, Emily Chi coordinated and mentored three youth organizers-in-training. She developed curriculum for seven weeks of training sessions and facilitated two-hour discussion sessions around topics of environmental justice, transportation health, and community organizing. She coordinated the scheduling and logistics of the new organizers-in-training program, arranged for community leaders to participate as guest speakers, and gained experience in grassroots community organizing. As part of OPALí¢â‚¬â„¢s East Portland Transportation and Health Equity Project, Emily also spent time on public transit several hours each week to engage with the transit-dependent population. Additionally, Emily attended workshops to expand her knowledge and learn about community organizing, particularly in poor communities and communities of color. As a result of her responsibilities and these workshops, this internship helped Emily develop stronger interpersonal skills and gain experience in facilitation and supervision.

Internship Details

Organization OPAL Environmental Justice Oregon - Portland, OR
Employment Sector
Non-Governmental Organization/Non-Profit
Student's Field of Study
Environmental Justice
Topic Areas of Internship

Citizen Participation, Environmental Health, Urban Environment

Duration & Dates 7 weeks, starting 6/28/2010
Skills Gained

Grassroots Organizing, People Management, Group Facilitation

Duties Performed

Grassroots Organizing, Mentoring, Teaching

How Student Obtained Internship Family/Friend Referral
Paid or Unpaid?
Funded by Marshall Weinberg