Yellowstone recruiting for 2012 Youth Conservation Corps program
Residential work program for youth ages of 15 and 18
by Yellowstone National Park
February 10, 2012
Imagine having the opportunity to work, learn and play in the world’s first national park.
Yellowstone National Park is recruiting for the 2012 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program, a residential work program for young men and women between the ages of 15 and 18. The program is designed to develop an appreciation for the nation's natural resources and heritage through unique educational, recreational and work experiences.
This summer, Yellowstone will offer two, month-long YCC sessions, June 10 to July 12, and July 15 to August 16. Approximately 40 teenagers from across the country will be randomly selected to participate in each session of the program.
Initiated in 1984, Yellowstone’s YCC Program recruits youth from all social, economic, ethnic, and racial backgrounds. Corps members work together under adult leadership to complete conservation projects such as rehabilitation of trails, campground restoration, and a wide variety of resource management and maintenance projects. Through this experience, participants develop their job and leadership skills while further exploring personal values, gaining self-esteem, expanding their awareness of work ethics, and learning firsthand about environmental and conservation issues.
Corps members will also participate in recreational activities and discover the many options for careers in the National Park Service and other land management agencies. Many of these activities take place in the evenings and on weekends. Activities may include hiking, rafting, fishing, ranger-led programs, enrollee and staff presentations, assisting rangers and/or scientists, seminars with special guest speakers and trips throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
No previous wilderness experience is required, but a willingness and ability to work in a physically active outdoor program, getting along well with others, and maintaining a positive attitude are essential for success.
Participants will be required to live on location, and room and board will be provided at a minimal cost. Wages will be set at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Applicants must be citizens of the United States and be 15 years of age by June 10, but not over 18 years of age by August 16.
For further information and application materials visit www.nps.gov/yell/parkmgmt/yccjobs.htm. Questions may be directed to the park’s YCC Program Manager at (307) 344-2256. Completed application materials must be received no later than March 5, 2011.
The Yellowstone YCC Program is supported by the Yellowstone Park Foundation including generous donations from the men and women of the Loyal Order of the Moose. Since 1989, members of the Moose have generously donated over three million dollars in support of Yellowstone's YCC program.
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