For Immediate Release
Robert Lazaro
Director of Communications
571.225.0198

Virginia Organization Offering Summer 2009 Fellowships

Attention Students:
Are you currently enrolled in college or graduate school?
Are you interested in land conservation and land use issues?
Do you want to make a difference in your community?
Would you like to gain real world experience working with a non-profit organization?

If you answered "YES!" to these questions, The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) invites you to apply to our Fellowship Program.

Who is PEC?
PEC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit conservation organization, community planning resource and regional land trust founded in 1972. It is PEC's mission to safeguard the landscapes, communities and heritage of the Piedmont by involving citizens in related public policy and land conservation. More information on PEC's website.

What is the Fellowship Program?
The Fellowship Program is a seven week program offering students an experiential education opportunity within PEC's nationally recognized, highly successful regional movement for land conservation and land use planning. Over the course of seven weeks, Fellows participate in lessons and activities in land conservation, agriculture, smart growth, communications, grassroots advocacy, internet technology, GIS mapping, and community outreach.

When does the Fellowship Program take place?

June 22-July 17 - Academic Session:

The first four weeks of the program are focused on academic activities including orientation, classroom instruction from PEC staff, field trips, guest lectures, assigned readings and participation in a PEC staff meeting. Participants typically benefit from 60 speakers and over 20 field trips.

July 20-August 7 - Individual Practicum Session:

The final three weeks of the program allow the Fellows to develop and use their new skills in a "real world" setting to complete an individual practicum project of personal interest, yet related to PEC's mission. Fellows will complete the practicum with the assistance of a mentor from PEC or a partnering organization.

What do Fellowship participants receive?
PEC is pleased to provide accepted 2009 Fellows assistance with the following:

Small living stipend
Local housing
Classroom facilities
Activities and special project expenses
An unforgettable experience

Who can apply to the Fellowship Program?
While interest in environmental stewardship or growth and community planning is advised and will enhance the Fellow's experience, we welcome applicants from a variety of academic fields who are currently enrolled in college or graduate school.

For more information, or to apply to PEC's innovative Fellowship Program, please visit PEC's website or contact or 540-341-0175 ext. 1#.

PEC's Fellowship Program is training tomorrow's leaders...are you ready?