Independent Contractor: Nature Passport
Project Coordinator
Organization: Kish Kids Outside
Compensation: $1,000+ stipend (paid in installments tied to deliverables)
Location: Fully Remote
Reports To: Kish Kids Outside Board of Directors
Inquires and Applicants: Contact kishkidsoutside@gmail.com
Position Overview
Kish Kids Outside is seeking a self-motivated, creative, and organized independent contractor to help develop the first phase of our Nature Passport Program — an interactive, app-based experience designed to encourage families to explore parks and outdoor spaces throughout DeKalb County.
An independent contractor is self-employed and not employed by Kish Kids Outside and will not receive employee benefits. They have control over how the work is completed, using their own devices, setting their own hours, and paying their own taxes.
This position will build the program from concept to launch, working with community partners to design engaging, play-based activities at local parks and preserves. The majority of development work will take place between now and May 2026, with opportunities to stay on in a reduced operational and marketing role after launch. This is an ideal opportunity for a student, recent graduate, educator, or community member who loves local parks and wants to help families get outside more.
Here are examples of the type of programs we are wanting to model for DeKalb County.
McHenry County Forest Preserve Find Your Wild
Winnebago Forest Preserve Preserve Passport
Will County Forest Preserve Trailblazer
Key Responsibilities
Program Development
● Work with Kish Kids Outside partner organizations to develop engaging activities at multiple
sites (such as the park districts and forest preserves)
● Create short, scavenger-hunt style missions and seasonal nature prompts using the KKO Bill of
Rights for guidance
● Develop play-based learning activities that encourage exploration and connection
● Draft clear instructions and user guidance so the program runs smoothly and as independently
as possible
● Gather site information and ensure clarity to reduce confusion for users
● Pilot test activities and gather feedback
● Prepare and upload content into the Goosechase app platform working with the Goosechase
support team
Program Planning & Logistics
● Map out how the full program will operate
● Develop structure, flow, and completion process
● Ensure all materials are organized and ready for launch
Compensation
● Stipend of at least $1,000
● Paid in installments tied to defined deliverables (example: 25% at kickoff, 25% at midpoint, 25%
at content completion, 25% at launch readiness)
Qualifications
Required:
● Strong organizational and communication skills
● Ability to work independently and manage deadlines
● Passion for outdoor exploration and community engagement
Preferred (but not required):
● Background in environmental education or youth engagement
● Experience working with children or families
● Interest in curriculum design or play-based learning
● Marketing or nonprofit partnership experience
Ideal Candidate
Someone who:
● Loves local parks and outdoor spaces
● Is excited to explore them more deeply
● Wants to help make nature more accessible for families
● Enjoys creative thinking and building something from the ground up
Unlike traditional classroom-based programs, students spend their days on the water working directly with marine animals, learning how to safely catch, measure, tag, and release sharks and rays while collecting real scientific data used in ongoing research.
This experience provides students with the kind of hands-on field skills and practical experience that graduate schools, research programs, and marine science employers value highly.
• Work directly with sharks and rays in their natural habitat
• Learn professional marine field research techniques
• Gain hands-on experience collecting and recording scientific data
• Work alongside experienced marine researchers and instructors
• Ideal for students interested in marine biology, conservation, and wildlife research careers
Enrollment for Summer 2026 closes March 31, and several weeks are already nearing capacity.
Current availability is limited for the following weeks:
• Week 4 – limited spots remaining
• Week 5 – limited spots remaining
• Week 6 – limited spots remaining
• Week 8 – limited spots remaining
Students interested in participating are encouraged to apply soon before the remaining spots are filled.
Students can learn more or request information here:
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