The Bilingual Community Engagement Internship is making a positive impact in North Fair Oaks and in the lives of the local Spanish-speaking community. This internship promotes community and connection tailored to the Hispanic population and is primarily based at Friendship and Flood Parks. The position oversees a community garden with 32 plots, located at Friendship Park, where residents can grow vegetables and fruits for their personal use. In addition to local community gardeners, various nonprofit organizations utilize the park to foster a love for gardening and nature while teaching nutrition to encourage the consumption of fresh produce. This creates a safe and supportive environment where individuals can express their specific needs, enjoy spending time in their gardens and learn about the rest of our amazing county parks.
Being a part of San Mateo County Parks’ Interpretive team, the bilingual Community Engagement Intern plays a crucial role in developing programs, events, activities, and communications tailored to the local community. For example, interns have hosted engaging events such as a Salsa Fest, Día de los Muertos and resource fairs. These experiences not only bring people together but they also connect them with other organizations and resources. Established for several years, this position has demonstrated the importance of having staff who represent the community, are multilingual and share common cultural experiences. In addition to benefiting the Hispanic community, this internship offers professionals an opportunity to grow in the field of Park Interpretation and Outdoor Recreation. Interns gain valuable experience and knowledge while working with a diverse range of stakeholders.