Youth/Student Programs

The Nature Corps works with public and private schools throughout California to teach young Americans to care for our precious natural resources. The Nature Corps uses classroom educational programs to recruit students to volunteer in the National Parks. The students have undertaken critical conservation projects that have earned four "Take Pride in California" Awards; national semi-finalist status in the "Take Pride in America" Award; and the American Express, Travel & Leisure "Mark of Innovation" Award.

Since 1987 The Nature Corps has recruited over 1,500 volunteers who have worked on projects valued at nearly $2,000,000. Our high school volunteers are responsible for restoring and preserving some of our nation's most valued natural treasures. We have mobilized hundreds of students and their teachers into areas such as Yosemite, Sequoia National Parks, Kings Canyon, Hawaii Volcanoes and the Channel Islands.

Projects

  • Protecting the world famous General Sherman Sequoia, the largest living organism on earth
  • Safeguarding rare, ancient and historic sequoia groves
  • Restoring the ecological balance of picturesque Yosemite Valley and beautiful Merced River
  • Revegetating fragile Tuolumne Meadows in the Yosemite's High Sierra
  • Rehabilitating historic cabins, antiquated park service facilities and rundown amphitheaters
  • Preserving sea life and threatened flora on the Channel Islands
  • Protecting the endangered and uniquely beautiful rainforests of Hawaii
Without the help of our volunteers, these resources would continue to be threatened. Our program is a major force behind a desperately needed wave of volunteerism in the national parks.

For many students, this volunteer experience is their first "job". After receiving training in a number of skills, the students feel tremendous pride and satisfaction while working on important projects that will benefit the public for years to come. Overall, this program builds the students' skills, confidence and character. It provides a lifetime experience that fills them with pride and the knowledge that they can make a difference in the world.

At no point in our history is it more important to provide our youth with positive and meaningful life experiences. The revenues generated through our adult and corporate outings serves as a benefit in support of our youth volunteers. By participating in this outing, you are not only participating in an experience of a lifetime, but also helping to sponsor teenage volunteers to work in the National Parks.

If you would like to support our student volunteers, please consider helping out with a tax-deductible contribution.