HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INTERNSHIP
Position Code: CULTHER091
Location: Québec Lower North Shore
Mid-June to mid-August 2009
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The Lower North Shore is a remote string of coastal villages on the north shore of the St. Lawrence in eastern Quebec that are not connected by road. The economy is largely based on the fishery, but the region has recently faced an economic crisis with a high level of unemployment due to the closure of the fishery. Heritage tourism development is one of the priorities for developing a sustainable economy for the community. Local culture and tourism committees have recently been formed to preserve and promote the fascinating natural and cultural heritage of this unique region. In an effort to promote tourism in the region as a whole, QLF is working with local tourism committees to put in place various culture and heritage interpretation initiatives.
The intern will coordinate event and activity planning in a Lower North Shore community for summer 2009. This will include partnering with local tourism committees to plan and implement activities for visitors and local residents alike, based on the priorities identified by the community. The intern will also work in collaboration with existing day camps to design and deliver cultural heritage programming for youth.
QUALIFICATIONS: The candidate must possess strong communication skills in English. Knowledge of French is an asset. S/he should have a background in liberal arts, social sciences or the environment, and have interest in history, fine arts, international development, geography, tourism and/or recreation. The candidate will have excellent organizational, communication, research and writing skills. The candidate must be able to travel and work in rural settings, independently and as part of a team. A driver's license and experience working with community groups are assets. The candidate should be sensitive to both conservation and cultural priorities.
STIPEND AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: This position is contingent on funding. Stipend depends on qualifications, background, and available funding. Certain work-related expenses will be covered. Applications are due by Monday, March 16, 2009, but are accepted on a rolling basis, so it is in your advantage to apply earlier. Please go to the “how to apply (english) (français)” section of our website and complete our online application form. Eligible students of McGill University should apply for this position through the McGill Arts Internship Program by January 26, 2009 and are strongly encouraged to apply for a McGill Arts Internship Award.
This internship will appeal to candidates with interdisciplinary interests and a desire for a profound cultural experience in one of Canada’s less-known regions. The internship will provide an opportunity to experience the connections between natural and cultural heritage, ecotourism and sustainable economies, and to work in the fields of event planning, heritage tourism development, and education. Candidates will greatly benefit from the hands-on experience facilitating community development initiatives alongside local volunteers.