MBGNA is committed to engaging all ages in a variety of formal and non-formal educational modalities. Multi-generational engagement includes: Innovative Nature Play, a pathway to healthy human development and pro-earth behaviors, K-12 environmental education and immersive nature experiences, sharing knowledge through public exhibits and interpretation, UM and other university and college student engagement and research partnerships. The Education department strives to develop polycentric, equitable and just programming, engagement and interpretation that amplifies biocultural diversity and strategically aligns with MBGNA futures. 

Within the Education Team, the Nature Play Advocate intern at the Gaffield Children’s Garden will combine innovative Nature Play activation with horticultural care of Gaffield Children's Garden. During this 15th anniversary year, Gaffield Children’s Garden interns will develop knowledge of interdisciplinary frameworks of Nature Play, will create and actualize dynamic nature play engagements within Gaffield Children’s Garden, across MBGNA,  and occasionally off-site,  will elevate public awareness of the value of outdoor play, nature access, and play equity, and provide garden care and ecosystem maintenance for Gaffield Children’s Garden.

Responsibilities include:

Creation and activation of dynamic Nature Play engagements, in GCG and across MBGNA, and occasionally off-site

Horticultural care of Gaffield Children's Garden, including many types of gardens and eco-systems

Collaboration to activate a celebratory level of outdoor play across the age range.

Key skills and attributes:

Desire to work outside is essential

Strong interest in community engagement, child development, gardening & nature  

Affinity for non-traditional ways of learning is desirable.

Additional details: 

40 hours/week with some weekend and evening hours;

May-late August; In-person/on-site, with limited hybrid flexibility.

Two positions

Compensation: $15.00 per hour

Primary work location: Matthaei Botanical Gardens,1800 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, 48105

Note: Internship positions that involve work with children require a background check; accordingly students offered a GCG internship position will be subject to a clear background check prior to employment. 

Required: Graduated high school and currently enrolled in a college/university by the internship start date of May 6, 2024, or a December 2023 or spring 2024 college or university graduate.

APPLY HERE for Nature Play Advocate Intern position.