Earthworks
Meet Our Team
The Faces of Our Program
Coming together from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences, our skilled team of professionals is the backbone of Earthworks. Their ideas help shape the direction and mission of our organization. Read on to learn more about some of our incredible team members.
Brad Rickman
Program Manager
Brad is a valuable addition to the Earthworks team, having joined in 2024. With years of Adventure Education and Outdoor experience, he brings a love for the outdoors and a passion for providing life-changing programming to youth. Through Adventure Education, Brad aims to equip young people with the skills they need to overcome life's challenges and lead successful teams.
Venice Aureli
Learning Guide
Venice is originally from Rochester, NY, and grew up in East Irondequoit. Growing up she raced sailboats competitively and spent winters skiing. She moved around the west coast and finished her degree at the University of Montana. Her field of study was Agriculture and Environmental Studies.
Being outdoors with her hands in the soil and growing food is her happy place. She is fascinated with watching things grow and is always trying to learn more. When she finds herself inside she is most likely spending time learning and trying to finish a variety of fiber arts projects. Her favorite things to do in the woods include foraging, hunting for bones, and outdoor cooking!
Mike Dondorfer
Learning Guide
Mike was born and raised in the City of Rochester where he developed a passion for youth education and completed his degree in Environmental Studies at the University of Rochester.
His journey in informal education has taken him through diverse settings, including roles at the Seneca Park Zoo, Monroe County 4-H, and the Strong National Museum of Play.
When he’s not outside, he likes to immerse himself in the world of cinema, gather with friends for game nights, and embark on epic adventures through the realm of Dungeons and Dragons.