From Yellowstone Public Affairs
How would you like to work, learn, play, and serve in the world’s first national park? Yellowstone is currently recruiting for the 2020 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC), a residential work-based education program for young men and women between the ages of 15 and 18.
Two, month-long YCC sessions will be offered June 7th–July 8th and July 12th–August 12th. Sixty youth will be randomly selected from across the country to participate in the program. Applicants must be citizens of the United States and 15 years of age by June 7th, but not over 18 years of age by August 12th. Yellowstone recruits youth from all social, economic, ethnic and racial backgrounds for the program.
No previous wilderness experience is required. Applicants should possess a positive attitude, a willingness and ability to work in a physically active outdoor program, and get along well with others.
Participants will be required to live in the park. Room and board will be provided at a minimal cost. Wages will be set at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.
YCC is designed to develop an appreciation for the nation’s natural resources and heritage through unique educational, recreational, and work experiences. Corps members work together with National Park Service (NPS) staff to complete conservation projects such as trail rehabilitation, campground restoration, and a wide variety of resource management, visitor support services, and maintenance projects.
Participants develop their job and leadership skills while exploring personal values, gaining self-esteem, expanding their awareness of work ethics, and learning firsthand about environmental and conservation issues. Corps members also participate in evening and weekend recreational activities and discover the many options for careers in the NPS and other land management agencies.
Questions may be directed to Yell_YCC_Office@nps.gov.
The Yellowstone YCC Program is funded by park entrance fees and generous donations to Yellowstone Forever, the park’s official nonprofit partner.
Visit www.nps.gov/yell/learn/management/yccjobs.htm to learn more about the program and to apply. Completed application materials must be received by March 1st.
Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of America’s more than 400 national parks. With the help of volunteers and partners, NPS safeguards these special places and share their stories with millions of people every year. •