Food Rescue Lead

The California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) is an innovative workforce development program dedicated to cultivating the next generation of climate and environmental leaders across California. Supported by partnerships with numerous nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community groups, CCAC aims to empower emerging leaders to take meaningful climate action within their communities. For the 2026-27 fellowship year, CCAC is offering over 400 paid, full-time fellowship positions, each designed to provide hands-on experience, training, and professional development opportunities to address pressing environmental challenges such as wildfire resiliency, urban greening, and organic waste diversion.\n\nThe Foothill Unity Center, located in Monrovia, California, is a well-established community nonprofit organization devoted to supporting individuals and families facing economic and social hardships. Their comprehensive suite of services includes food distribution, health support, crisis case management, job development, housing assistance, and homeless services, all underpinned by a strong volunteer program. Foothill Unity Center envisions a compassionate community where everyone’s basic needs are met, enabling individuals to become self-sufficient and flourish with dignity and respect.\n\nThe Food Rescue Lead is a pivotal role within the California Climate Action Corps Fellowship at Foothill Unity Center. This full-time, 11-month paid fellowship runs from September 21, 2026, through August 13, 2027, requiring a 40-hour workweek with occasional evening and weekend commitments. The program demands a strong commitment to service and professional growth, including 170 to 340 hours of dedicated training and development. Fellows in this role will earn a stipend of $35,250 before taxes and a $10,000 education award on successful completion of all service hours.\n\nAs a Food Rescue Lead, fellows will actively fight food insecurity and climate change by rescuing edible food that would otherwise be wasted and redistributing it to families in need throughout the San Gabriel Valley. This leadership position involves managing frontline food distribution operations, coordinating and inspiring volunteers, engaging community members through effective outreach, and developing partnerships with local businesses and organizations to maximize impact. Additionally, fellows will lead climate education initiatives that raise awareness about food waste reduction and environmental justice in schools and community settings. They will also support composting efforts that help divert organic waste from landfills, thus contributing directly to climate mitigation efforts.\n\nThe fellowship offers valuable certifications such as food handler permits, CPR training, and equipment operation credentials, all aimed at advancing the fellow’s career trajectory in environmental and nonprofit sectors. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about environmental justice, food systems, community organizing, and climate action leadership. Fluency in languages such as Cantonese, Mandarin, or Spanish along with a valid driver’s license will enhance a candidate’s effectiveness in serving diverse communities. The fellowship encourages applicants with backgrounds in outreach, education, public speaking, environmental science, and nonprofit program management to apply and develop their leadership skills in a supportive, hands-on environment.\n\nThe California Climate Action Corps prioritizes local candidates who reside in California and are committed to making tangible, positive environmental changes in their communities. The fellowship also provides comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, professional development assistance, tuition reimbursement, childcare assistance for eligible participants, and other supportive resources such as food assistance through CalFresh and student loan forbearance during the service term. The inclusive nature of the program extends opportunities for individuals with criminal histories, emphasizing second chances and community empowerment. Overall, the Food Rescue Lead position is a unique chance to gain substantial experience in climate action, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement, while actively contributing to building a more sustainable and just California.