Read Our Blogs

It is that time again, Virginia State Parks Youth Conservation Corps is now accepting applications for the 2017 Crewmember position. 

By Renesha Chiles, Youth Corps Program Manager

Every summer, Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) offers over 150 youth the opportunity to serve in Virginia State Parks. These youth live in the parks for three weeks, make lifelong friendships, perform outstanding service work, and earn $500!

YCC is looking for youth, ages 14-17, to serve on a crew with nine (same-sex) fellow crewmembers. The crew is led by three, trained, adult crew leaders. Crewmember applicants should be willing to actively participate in all activities and are expected to work diligently to work together as one cohesive team with their crew. Applicants do not need to have any prior experience; however, an interest in working outdoors is critical as the crew should expect to get sweaty and to perform laborious tasks in the middle of summer.

While in the park, the crews work 35-40 hours a week and spend their evenings learning about the importance of conservation and environmental education activities hosted by the park’s interpretive staff and their crew leaders.  Crews will work on various projects such as trail maintenance, construction of new park facilities, and park beautification. The crew’s hard work during the week is rewarded through weekend extravaganzas to other nearby parks, trips to museums, and recreational activities including kayaking, hiking, and bouldering. Work can be difficult but it is also extremely rewarding for crewmembers to see the work they have completed and to show their friends and family.

2016 girls YCC crew at Staunton River State Park

While YCC may be a ton of fun, crewmembers are expected to complete many laborious tasks; it is NOT summer camp.

 A $500 stipend is awarded after the successful completion of the program. The crewmember is fully responsible for transportation to and from their assigned park.

Once at the park, transportation, meals, and housing are provided. The crewmember position is available to youth in Virginia and from out-of-state. Each applicant must complete a series of questions, and provide two references (with email addresses). These references are required to complete a short survey before the rapidly approaching application deadline of March 1, 2017.

Click here to learn more and access the application