Minnesota Conservation Corps Program

Conservation Corps Program Eric Antonson, Youth Programs Manager 651-209-9900 x11 eric.antonson@conservationcorps.org www.conservationcorps.org

The Conservation Corps engage AmeriCorps members as leaders for youth from diverse backgrounds as they complete community-service projects. The program focuses on youth development and job training, with environmental conservation as a learning vehicle. The combination of service projects and experiential education helps youth build practical skills, connect to the natural environment, and become active, empowered citizens in their local communities. In the residential Summer Youth Program, AmeriCorps members guide 85 youth through a summer of environmental service projects in rural areas. In the Youth Outdoors program, AmeriCorps members guide 50 youth through environmental service projects in the Twin Cities metro area during afterschool hours and weekends.

Essential qualification to participate in the Minnesota Conservation Corps Program: Preferred Qualifications (One or more of the following are desired but not required): Ability to work outdoors in adverse conditions and on challenging terrain Ability to work with diverse groups of youth in conservation, education and recreation settings Ability to foster strong work habits, environmental ethics, youth leadership and team unity Ability to work well with others in a team setting Strong desire to learn new skills Positive attitude, interest in service and community work, and sense of adventure Additional preferred qualifications: Prior field experience; and experience/education in natural resource management and youth development Top reasons that members like serving in the Minnesota Conservation Corps Program: Give back to their community Serve as a valuable part of a team Grow as an individual Extensive training opportunities Multifaceted experience Lead groups of youth in education, training, and hands-on environmental restoration Conduct intensive nature resource projects Serve on a crew of members who are dedicated to service and their community Respond to natural disasters and emergencies Coordinate and manage volunteers Print this page