Conservation Corps Minnesota and Iowa engages youth and young adults in meaningful service, leadership development, and environmental stewardship. AmeriCorps is a real-life education and service-learning experience. Members learn teamwork and leadership, gain technical skills and earn certifications to support environmental stewardship. They also get the personal satisfaction of taking on challenges and seeing results. The opportunities in Minnesota are based communities throughout the state including the Twin Cities, Duluth, Grand Rapids, Rochester, Mankato, Brainerd, and Bemidji.

“Practically speaking, these are fun and challenging opportunities that give young people a chance to demonstrate creativity and responsibility they can leverage as they move along their career paths,” said Hollis Emery, Conservation Corps’ program director. “But I’m sure most of our program alums will tell you the real reward was the chance to establish relationships and contribute to something that made the world a better place for everyone.”

For those ages 18 to 25, the year-long AmeriCorps opportunities begin in February and run through December. The summer opportunities begin in May and end in August. In both cases, participants travel throughout the Midwest performing outdoor projects that restore and preserve natural resources or otherwise protect the environment. Participants receive a monthly stipend, health insurance, and forbearance on their student loans for the period of their service. Upon completion of the term, members receive an AmeriCorps education award – up to $6,095 – that can be used for future tuition or existing student loans.

Employers notice resumes that include the kind of experiences that Conservation Corps provides.

“Many employers are impressed to see a young person who has taken the initiative to serve their community,” Emery said. “They tell me these young people bring a ‘bigger picture’ perspective to their work, and they function well in teams.”

Learn more and apply at: www.conservationcorps.org/apply

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