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Teen Programs

Part of the MBG Teen NetworkMBG Teen Network Programs engage teens in opportunities through foundational programming based in several core areas: environmental education, field research, service learning, gardening, exploring environmental careers, and connecting with nature. We equip teens with the knowledge, understanding, skills, and passion to make environmentally informed, sustainable decisions that support our planet and are needed now more than ever.

For High Schoolers

 

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Eco-Actor teaching fourth graders

Eco-Act

Eco-Act is a year-long environmental leadership program for high school juniors and seniors. Participants take action on environmental issues, teach children about ecology, and experience the outdoors through adventure and service outings. 

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Outdoor Youth Corps participants in a farm field with leafy vegetables

Outdoor Youth Corps

Outdoor Youth Corps (OYC) is a paid program for ages 16–20, offering hands-on work, training, and career exploration in conservation, sustainability, and community engagement throughout the St. Louis area to build future green job readiness. 

 

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Teen holding insect

MANTIS

Making Advocates of Nature-Loving Teens In Service (MANTIS) is a volunteer program created to give students hands-on experience working with insects and the native outdoor landscapes that support them. Participants work alongside our staff as we care for animals, carry out live animal encounters, and lead interactive activities for our visitors.

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SAGE participant interacting with families in the Childrens Garden

SAGE

Students as Garden Educators (SAGE) engages teen volunteers in teaching and inspiring Missouri Botanical Garden visitors by leading interactive activities in the Garden's family-oriented spaces. Volunteers interact with visitors directly, earning service hours while contributing to the Garden's educational mission. 

 

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SIFT participants net invertebrates

SIFT

The Shaw Institute for Field Training at Shaw Nature Reserve offers teens paid field experiences throughout the year such as prescribed fire, bird banding, and fungal surveys, which help students develop research skills and professional connections, while also clarifying their career interests.

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YF Participant

Youth Fellowship Program

The Youth Fellowship offers a $2,000 stipend to high school juniors and seniors who, outside school hours, design and lead projects with Garden experts, exploring plants, ecosystems, and sustainability while building research and communication skills for future science and environmental careers.