Young people often play a critical role in improving the environment. Through their involvement with the following programs, DC youth are helping to solve the many environmental problems facing their neighborhoods and communities. While working on conservation projects, educating younger children and researching environmental topics, participants develop their own leadership skills, also preparing themselves for college and employment.

EnvironMentors, a program of the National Council for Science and the Environment, uses environmental science to increase academic and scientific competency among DC public high school students. The program involves rigorous academic mentoring and college preparation. The College Access Pathway Program matches students with mentors who guide and support a scientific project of the student’s choosing. The program culminates with a competitive science fair, at which students are recognized for their hard work. In partnership with College Summit, an after-school college prep program, seniors receive assistance with the college application process, financial aid and preparation for entrance exams. Additionally, students learn about college through structured activities with area universities, including George Washington, American, Howard and University of Maryland. Last year, 100 percent of program graduates were accepted into college.

Earth Conservation Corps uses the Anacostia River to provide hands-on environmental education, job training and community services for disadvantaged youth from the river’s surrounding neighborhoods. It targets distressed natural resources and neighborhoods, and works to restore both simultaneously. Each year ECC recruits young adults, ages 17-25, for the Eagle Corps. Throughout the year, Corps members conduct river cleanups, distribute educational materials to local citizens and lead outreach programs in their communities. Working closely with the DC Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services, ECC launched the Civic Justice Corps in 2007. This 6-month program provides career and life-skills training for 24 court-involved youth who have been recently released from the Oak Hill juvenile detention facility. The Corps members participate in wetlands restoration, urban forestry and tree planting, and low-environmental impact construction projects throughout DC. The program furnishes the necessary support services to ensure that the youth are successfully reintegrated while serving their communities.

The Student Conservation Association is a national organization devoted to developing environmental stewardship in young people. Through education and leadership development opportunities, youth learn about resource management, environmental protection and conservation. SCA’s High School Program provides educational and conservation opportunities to DC youth, while promoting the restoration and protection of public lands. The focus on air and water quality teaches students about the relationship among themselves, their communities and the surrounding natural environment. From the High School Program, students are recruited for the DC Summer Conservation Crew Program. In cooperation with the DC National Park Service, students conduct conservation projects, such as maintaining and restoring trails and building bridges and boardwalks. After the summer, students are eligible for the Conservation Leadership Corps. Participants join one of SCA’s nationally recruited crews to complete conservation service projects at national parks and forests throughout the U.S.

The Foundation is proud to support these organizations, as well as others that are working to educate youth about the region's environment.