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Youth and Emerging Professionals

 

OYC participants

ParticipantsThe Outdoor Youth Corps program is an education and workforce development program that connects the St. Louis region youth ages 16 to 20 with projects focused on conservation, horticulture, sustainability and community engagement in the St. Louis area. This program is made up of a crew of 10 individuals and provides career mentorship to participants by introducing them to a wide variety of career paths, training opportunities, and paid work experiences.

Opportunities available include: urban farming, lessons on biodiversity, invasive species removal, plant identification, ecological restoration, tool use training, collaboration with community organizations, team building, and more!

The Outdoor Youth Corps not only provides work experiences but also educational field trips, professional development activities, and three events with the St. Louis Green Teen Alliance.

Meet new friends from across St. Louis and build strong, lifelong connections while discovering exciting opportunities, exploring diverse interests, and making unforgettable memories.

The Outdoor Youth Corps has four annual program seasons, each accommodating 10 participants.

  • Summer Crew (June–July)
  • Spring Weekend Work Series (February–April)
  • Fall Weekend Work Series (September–November)
  • Alternative Spring Break program (March 18–22, 2024)

Note: We are no longer accepting applications for the fall series of Outdoor Youth Corps. You may fill out the waitlist application to be put on our waitlist and to receive further information on future seasons!

 

Participant working in fieldParticipant Benefits:

  • Paid $12.50/hour
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Bus passes for participants to and from their residence to our daily start location at the Garden
  • Snacks and lunch provided
  • Opportunity to attend alumni events

Job Requirements:

  • Ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions, and inclement weather
  • Ability to lift 40 lbs. occasionally, and carry out potentially physically demanding tasks
  • Must be between the ages of 16–20
  • Must be able to arrive at job site on time
 

 

“It was a really good learning experience and very eye opening to the environment I live in and how I can use these skills to make it better.”
—OYC participant, Fall 2022

“I enjoyed working at new places every week and receiving advice from professionals with years of experience. There was never a boring day, and I really feel like I have a grasp on the careers and opportunities available to me in the future.”
—OYC participant, Summer 2022 Crew

“I loved the program. Getting to spend time in the environment and going on field trips was an amazing job. I met great people along the way and learned new possibilities for my future.”
—OYC participant, Alternative Spring Break 2022

 

For additional Outdoor Youth Corps program information, or if you have any questions, contact us via email at outdooryouthcorps@mobot.org.