Nevada Outdoor School is proud to highlight the incredible work and dedication of our AmeriCorps members who bring outdoor education, stewardship, and community engagement to rural Nevada. This month, we’re excited to introduce Sofia Mayorga, an Outdoor Educator serving with NOS and making a meaningful impact across multiple counties in Northern Nevada.
Meet Sofia
Sofia Mayorga was born and raised in Winnemucca, Nevada. With deep roots in the community and a lifelong interest in service, Sofia has brought her passion for learning, teaching, and the outdoors to her role at Nevada Outdoor School.
Discovering AmeriCorps
Sofia’s interest in community service began at a young age. While researching the Peace Corps, she discovered AmeriCorps and immediately felt drawn to its mission. The opportunity to gain hands-on experience, serve local communities, and engage in topics she cares about, especially nature, ultimately inspired her to apply for the Outdoor Educator position with NOS.
“I love talking about many subjects and I enjoy nature,” Sofia shared. “That’s what made me interested in becoming an Outdoor Educator.”
Sofia began her AmeriCorps term in September, and with just over two months of service completed, she is already making a lasting impact.
What AmeriCorps Means to Sofia
In Sofia’s words, AmeriCorps is “an amazing agency that provides service programs that revolve around the community's needs.” She believes the program is important not only because it helps communities address pressing challenges, but also because it creates opportunities for individuals to grow, learn, and serve.
“AmeriCorps helps improve those communities by challenging the nation’s most pressing issues,” she says.
Personal and Community Impact
Serving as an AmeriCorps member has given Sofia the chance to build new skills, especially teaching, and discover more about her own strengths.
“Being an AmeriCorps member has allowed me to try new skills,” she explains. “These skills, like teaching, have helped me learn more about myself and improve on the skills I have now.”
Her service has extended across four counties, Lander, Humboldt, Pershing, and Elko, where she has delivered outdoor education to youth and community members. Through teaching Leave No Trace principles, Ride Safe Ride Smart, and nature journaling, Sofia has fostered connection, stewardship, and mindfulness among the students she works with.
Favorite Experience So Far
Of all her experiences, Sofia’s favorite has been teaching lessons in schools across Northern Nevada. Reaching youth in different communities has been both fulfilling and energizing.
“Teaching youth has been a great experience for me,” she says. “It’s very enjoyable and fulfilling.”
Looking Ahead
Sofia plans to continue her educational journey after her AmeriCorps service. She will graduate with her Associate of Arts in May 2026 and intends to pursue a bachelor’s degree. The Segal Education Award earned through her AmeriCorps term will help her reach that goal.
Final Thoughts
Sofia encourages others to consider AmeriCorps, not only for the opportunity to serve, but for the personal growth it brings.
“AmeriCorps is an amazing program that provides services to communities,” she reflects, “but it is also an amazing program that provides growth opportunities for members as well. I have learned so much from my term so far, and I am extremely excited for all the opportunities the rest of my term will give me.”
Nevada Outdoor School is grateful for Sofia’s commitment, enthusiasm, and passion for outdoor education. Her service strengthens communities across Northern Nevada and inspires the next generation of stewards, adventurers, and lifelong learners.
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