Melissa Guevara began her career as an urban environmentalist at Groundwork Hudson Valley’s Science Barge serving as a weekend docent and member of the Green Team. In 2015, she worked with the US Fish and Wildlife Service at the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, where she helped develop the partnership between the Refuge and Groundwork Hudson Valley. Upon finishing her bachelor’s degree in Environmental and Urban Studies at Bard College, Melissa spent 2 1/2 years as the Youth Program Coordinator for Groundwork Dallas, where she introduced youth from all walks of life and backgrounds, to the wonder of outdoor recreation and the possibility of careers in the environmental field.

As Green Team Manager in Groundwork RVA, Melissa works to provide Richmond youth the opportunity to work within their natural environment and benefit from green spaces. She believes that  youth are an untapped community asset who can positively impact both the natural and built environments.