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Sustainable Learning

OYC participants

The Outdoor Youth Corps program is an education and workforce development program that connects St. Louis region youth ages 16 to 20 with environmental stewardship projects, community engagement opportunities, and potential environmental careers. This program provides career mentorship to participants by introducing them to a wide variety of career paths, training opportunities, and paid work experiences.

Youth are introduced to a variety of environmental stewardship projects throughout the city including: invasive species removal, urban farming, trash clean ups, general garden maintenance, and more! Participating youth learn hands-on skills and gain knowledge related to working in the environmental, horticultural, and conservation related fields.

The Outdoor Youth Corps has five annual program seasons including the Summer Crew, College and Career Week, Spring Weekend Work Series, Fall Weekend Work Series, and an Alternative Spring Break program. Please see below for current season details.

Outdoor Youth Corps Fall Weekend Work Series 2023

Applications are no longer being accepted for the fall weekend work series. Please reach out to Olivia at odove@mobot.org if you are interested in being considered for future OYC programs such as the spring weekend work series, alternative spring break, or the summer crew series. We will keep your contact information on file and reach out when applications open for those seasons.

Participant Benefits:

  • Paid $12.50/hour
  • Saturday work days from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Discover employment and career opportunities in outdoor and conservation fields
  • Hands-on skill building training
  • Networking opportunities with local youth and green industry professionals
  • Learn about regional and global environmental issues and topics

Job Requirements:

  • Must be available to work the following dates 
    • September 9, 16, 23
    • October 7, 14, 21
    • November 4, 11
    • Plus opportunity to attend Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden
  • Ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions, and inclement weather
  • Ability to lift 40 lbs. occasionally, and carry out potentially physically demanding tasks
  • Must be between the ages of 16–20
  • Must be able to arrive at job site on time

Preference will be given to those who can attend all work days.

“It was a really good learning experience and very eye opening to the environment I live in and how I can use these skills to make it better.”
—OYC participant, Fall 2022

“I enjoyed working at new places every week and receiving advice from professionals with years of experience. There was never a boring day, and I really feel like I have a grasp on the careers and opportunities available to me in the future.”
—OYC participant, Summer 2022 Crew

“I loved the program. Getting to spend time in the environment and going on field trips was an amazing job. I met great people along the way and learned new possibilities for my future.”
—OYC participant, Alternative Spring Break 2022

For additional Outdoor Youth Corps program information, or if you have any questions, contact Olivia Dove via email at odove@mobot.org.