June 2, 2012:
National Trails Day - Hiking Expo (12:00 pm)
Summer Program
Ever imagine yourself going to really cool places, working outdoors, working with youth from all over the state to make a positive difference, and having an amazing summer? Ever picture yourself hiking through the rainforests, standing on the top of a mountain, seeing native birds flying through ohia and koa forests? Ever thought of a career working outdoors or just love the outdoors and want a summer out of the classroom and in the wild open spaces of Hawaii? If any of these describes you, than this is the program for you!
The Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps Summer Program is an awesome opportunity for young adults to get involved in hands-on conservation service-learning projects. Member and team leader positions are available on O’ahu, Kaua’i, Moloka’i, Lana’i, Hawai’i Island, and Maui. During the six week program, participants will be given the chance of a lifetime to work in some of the most amazing and beautiful ecosystems that Hawaii has to offer. While assisting professional experts in protecting the environment, members will learn about natural resource management through hands-on field experiences. Participants will assist with projects such as trail maintenance, native plant restoration, invasive species control, wildlife management, fence building, native bird monitoring, stream restoration, coastal restoration, and wetlands work.
In addition to gaining amazing experiences and knowledge about the environment, members will also work in teams and will be given the opportunity to gain life skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, responsibility, and many other skills to help prepare them for their future.
Who can apply?
There are two positions available through the Summer Program: member or team leader. To become a member, you must be at least 17 years of age by the start of the program. To become a team leader, you must be at least 21 years of age and must posess a high school diploma or GED as well as a driver’s license.
So what does this program cost?
This is an absolutely free program! All program costs such as training, transportation, camping, and equipment costs are covered. There is a $200 deposit if you are accepted as a summer volunteer. This check will be returned to you upon finishing the program and will only be cashed if you drop out or are dismissed.
Can I earn money and college credits while participating?
Members receive a $1,132 education award upon successful completion of the program and there is an option of earning three college credits from the University of Hawaii. Team leaders receive approximately $3,500 (broken out over seven weeks) and a $1,132 education award.
Are you a little older and still interested in getting involved in the program? Apply as a team leader!
If you are interested in education, the outdoors, conservation, leadership, or youth development, this could be a fantastic experience and career builder for you!
As a team leader, you will be responsible for a team of five members, helping to facilitate their learning at different sites, coordinate logistics, and work alongside them completing work projects. Team leaders receive training by the program which can benefit them in many professional areas of life. This program could assist you in your professional pursuits and give you a chance to give back to Hawaii and make a difference in young adults’ lives. Team leaders must be at least 21 years of age and preferably have a background in education, conservation, or youth work.