Kupu Urges Youth to Apply for Conservation Corps Summer Program

Youth from throughout the state will have a chance to gain some hands-on experience in conservation this summer through the Hawai‘i Youth Conservation Corps Summer Program.

This year, Kupu, Hawai‘i’s leading conservation and youth education nonprofit, urges youth to apply on Kauaʻi, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu, Maui and the Big Island. Applications are due Feb. 25.

“There are two ways to participate, either as a team member or team leader,” said Kupu recruiting coordinator Graeme Lander in a press release. “Team members are typically between the ages of 17–22 and don’t necessarily need any prior environmental experience. The ideal applicant is someone with a positive attitude, curious about nature, interested in learning and a desire to strengthen their community through service.”

The program runs for seven weeks from June 7-22. If selected, participants are partnered within a team of 5-7 other like-minded individuals and each week they get to explore and serve within a different partner site, which holds new adventures, challenges, teachings and opportunities for personal growth.

Participants will get to learn about a variety of ecosystems, natural resource management techniques and cultural practices unique to Hawai‘i.

“Being a team leader, I learned a lot of important social and personal skills on how to properly lead and what to do in adverse situations,” said a past participant from Kona. “I learned patience with myself and with my team members while learning perseverance. I learned so many important lessons about the ‘aina, the community, and its stewards! Being able to have the most incredible opportunity to explore parts of the island I would have never of been able to without Kupu and gaining valuable lessons about the ‘aina from the communities that are usually forgotten about in textbooks, and the stewards who work relentlessly to protect. For anyone who is thinking about conservation but on a more environmental education side or community engagement level, do this program as it really provides you with that network of local support and a good introduction to working with youth!”

“The team leaders don’t mind extra responsibility,” Graeme said. “They are the backbone for the team, responsible for assisting, coordinating and inspiring the members each day. Ideally, the leaders are 21 years and older, have experience in leading groups and have knowledge pertaining to unique Hawaiʻi native plants and customs. They play an integral role in the success of the program and forming the experience the members have.”

In addition to the First Aid & CPR certification, members receive a $500 monetary stipend and $1,374 AmeriCorps Education Award, gain valuable experiential environmental education, build close relationships with their peers and life skills relevant to any career.

Apply online by clicking here.

For questions, email [email protected] or call 808-735-1221, ext. 2001.