We are excited to introduce you to the two newest FPC team members! Neena and Mitchell come to us from PGE’s Project Zero, a workforce development program that we have been a partner of since 2020. The program places young adults who are interested in learning more about the green industry with local environmental organizations for paid internships where they can experience on-the-job training.
FPC is proud to be a part of this program and to have Neena and Mitchell on the team as our new restoration & stewardship coordinators. We sat down with the two of them for a quick chat so you can get to know them.
Neena
What did you do before coming to Forest Park Conservancy?
- In the past I did a lot of restaurant work, most recently at Laughing Planet, a health-conscious fast-food restaurant.
What brought you to work here at Forest Park Conservancy?
- Through the Project Zero internship I got really lucky and was placed at Forest Park Conservancy, which was my top pick. I love Forest Park. When I first came to Portland, Leif Erikson trail in Forest Park was the first place I visited in the city. It feels nice giving back to this park that I love going to.
What will your work focus on while at Forest Park Conservancy?
- I will be doing a lot of restoration and stewardship work, including a lot of outdoor work in the park with volunteers. I will also be helping Chie with managing the ambassador program.
What are your long-term goals?
- My long-term goals are to continue with a career in the green industry, hopefully doing something that lets me travel and see new environments and ecosystems with different wildlife and plant species.
What do you do for fun?
- I like to read, craft new things, float down rivers and be outside in general.
What is your favorite part about Forest Park?
- My favorite part of Forest Park is Fire Lane 3 stretching down to the Wildwood Trail. It’s a very steep, long hill that is very challenging to walk up but it is really rewarding to do so. I hope to walk it again sometime in my free time.
Mitchell
What did you do before coming to Forest Park Conservancy?
- I just graduated from Sandy High School before starting this internship.
What brought you to work here at Forest Park Conservancy?
- My brother, Mikey, who works at FPC recommended me to Project Zero. I wanted to get a job working with the community and so I applied for the internship.
What will your work focus on while at Forest Park Conservancy?
- I will be conducting restoration and trails work, leading events, and working with volunteers out in the parks.
What are your long-term goals?
- During this internship, I want to become well versed in plants, mycology, and public engagement.
What do you do for fun?
- I like carpentry, blacksmithing, and working on cars. I’m also planning on setting up my forge later this week.
What is your favorite part about Forest Park? If you haven’t visited, what are you excited to experience in the park?
- I like the creeks in Forest Park.