Q&A: Americorps Volunteers Adam & Evan
As we move into the final stretch of summer, we’re taking the time to sit down with our outgoing team members. After joining the Freshwater Land Trust team in August 2015, Americorps VISTA volunteers Adam Greene and Evan Sznajderman have become valued members of the FWLT family.
In their time at the Land Trust, Adam and Evan have helped projects such as the Red Rock Valley Ridge & Trail System and Five Mile Creek make significant progress and are regular presences on Red Rock Tuesdays. We sat down with Adam and Evan to reflect on their time at the Land Trust and take a look at where their trails will take them next.
Adam Greene
Q: What did you learn from your experience serving with the Freshwater Land Trust?
A: My experience with the land trust has broadened my conception of what a conservation organization can accomplish and shown me that such accomplishments are only achievable through the development and maintenance of strong partnerships in the community. I have picked up many valuable and diverse skills working here that I will be able to take with me wherever I go next.
Q: What is one memory you will take with you from your experience at the Land Trust?
A: One of the most memorable experiences was the opening event for the High Ore Line Trail that opened in Midfield during my term. Freshwater Land Trust played a part in the creation of the trail and in the planning process for the opening. The turnout exceeded all expectations, with nearly 500 people coming out over the course of the day. This event highlighted the potential of public trails and greenspace to create a tighter community.
Q: What are your plans for life after the FWLT?
A: I intend to stay in the conservation field. I chose to work with FWLT because protecting the properties we conserve has a much greater impact than people realize. Whether in Alabama or somewhere else, this is the type of work I hope to be doing.
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give future volunteers about serving with the FWLT?
A: Do not be too rigid about your job description. FWLT has a small staff and everyone helps out where he can. Plus, the variety of the work involved is one of the great pleasures of being part of the land trust team.
Evan Sznajderman
Q: What did you learn from your experience serving with the Freshwater Land Trust?
A: Serving at the FWLT, I learned that you can make a difference for your community and the environment.
Q: What is one memory you will take with you from your experience at the Land Trust?
A: My favorite memories of the Land Trust are the team breakfasts following Red Rock Tuesdays. The short break we all shared after waking up at 5 am and standing in the cold or the rain and before going into the office were wonderful.
Q: What are your plans for life after the FWLT?
A: Immediately following my service I will be going on a road trip through the American West and then going to Israel.
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give future volunteers about serving with the FWLT?
A: My advice would be to rely on your supervisor at the Land Trust, Memorie is amazing, and your other AmeriCorps members. Everyone will be going through the same things.