MHC Fellows - City of Benton Harbor

MI Healthy Climate Fellows:
Join the MI Healthy Climate Fellows (MHC Fellows) and make a lasting impact on Michigan's carbon-neutral future! The MHC Fellows program accelerates Michigan's climate action through capacity building and leadership development. Fellows serve across the state to advance the MI Healthy Climate Plan's (MHCP) goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The plan, unveiled by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in April 2022, aims to avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis; create good-paying jobs; position Michigan as a climate action leader; and build a healthier and more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable Michigan for all Michiganders.

About the Host Partner:
( Harbor is a city of around 9,100 people which lies on the shores of Lake Michigan. It has a long history of industrial contamination from companies that have long since left the area. Over 44% percent of the population lives below the poverty line; unemployment and disability rates are higher than the state and national average. However, the City has recently seen significant private development to address the housing shortages. The City has obtained funding to support the restoration of the Ox Creek Corridor which runs over four miles through the City. The City has also worked hard to obtain grant funding to support solar installation that will reduce the cost of energy for the city as well as low-income residents. The City is dedicated to improving the health and quality of life for its residents.

MHC Fellow Role and Responsibilities:
● The MHC Fellow will support projects underway in the Ox Creek Corridor including:

• Community engagement events and education opportunities for current initiatives (Marine Debris Removal (NOAA), Habitat Restoration (NOAA), Stormwater infrastructure GLRI (EGLE), Hall Park revitalization phase 1 (DNR), and the Bobo Brazil Community Center revitalization (EGLE)
• Invasive species education and mitigation
• Support the creation of the Ox Creek Documentary

● The MHC Fellow will assist City staff with the development and implementation of new waste management programs and/or solar installation; including identifying funding opportunities

● Assist with the “Adopt-a-storm drain” program and provide stormwater education

● Support the Riverview Drive project by coordinating community and stakeholder input sessions and develop educational materials


● Support City of Benton Harbor staff with Summer Youth Employment program training including plant and tree identification for invasive species control and the importance of ecosystem services

● Empower the community to access climate resources by planning meetings, educational programs, and/or other activities to consistently share information.


● Participate in MHC Fellows development shared learning and collaboration activities including four MHC Fellow in-person convenings and, MHC Fellows monthly virtual training (will be provided by program staff).

● Fellows will host a community input session with their host site to collect community feedback and advance the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan.

Position Type: In-Person

MHC Fellows can expect to report to serve on-site.

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:30 am - 5 pm

Site Location: City Hall, Economic Development office - 200 E Wall St., Benton Harbor, MI 49022