This summer Great River Greening launched its second youth program, Summer Youth Job Corps. In partnership with the Conservation Corps of Minnesota and Iowa, Summer Youth Job Corps gives at-risk youth the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in natural resource management. A crew of 6 youth worked at various Great River Greening sites, engaging in a range of restoration work.In addition to doing hands-on restoration work, the youth also had opportunities to meet with various professionals with green jobs and learn about their career paths. This is what a Summer Youth Job Corp participant said about the program:

-------------------------It was a really valuable, educational experience! Not only did I bond with some amazing people, but I learned a lot about the natural world around me.- Erika-------------------------

By the end of the program, youth have a great knowledge of careers in natural resource management and career skills such as team-building and leadership.