Portland Youth Corps - High School Community Service Opportunity

Feb 22

What is the Portland Youth Corps?

The Portland Youth Corps promotes personal and professional growth through community service, environmental stewardship, and hands-on conservation opportunities within Portland’s parks. We will take on different projects to beautify and maintain the natural and urban parks around Portland. Our projects may include trail building and maintenance, invasive species removal, planting native plants, playground maintenance, and assisting with the community gardens. The PYC is a partnership between Portland Parks, The Portland Parks Conservancy, and Maine Audubon.

When Is it?

We offer two 4-week sessions during the summer months. Session 1 will be June 20th - July 15th, and Session 2 will be July 18 - August 12th.

Who Can Apply?

Youth residing or attending school in Portland, Maine. Students must be age 14-17 at the time of our summer sessions. If a student is curious about careers in environmental science, serving in beautiful parks, or building trails, this program is for them! Applicants from underserved or minority communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

How Can Youth Benefit from the Program?

An opportunity to engage in outdoor community service projects during the summer.
Earn a $500 stipend at the end of the 4 week session.
Experience a 4 Day/3 Night team-building retreat at the Ecology School in Saco where students will learn about ecology and conservation.
Participate in multiple guided outdoor adventures such as sailing and kayaking.
Gain professional experience and leadership skills. Students will be mentored by professionals in multiple outdoor fields.
An opportunity to make new friends and be part of a team.
A chance to give back to their community by helping to improve parks and natural spaces.

How Can Students Apply?

Students must apply using an online application accessed via our website. The application period will be open Monday, March 7th - Sunday, March 27th. We will conduct interviews to select our final crews during the month of April. A total of 26 youth will be selected to participate in our program.

Where Can We Find More Information?

We are offering a 30-40 minute zoom webinar and Q&A session on Tuesday, March 1st @ 6pm. This is for youth and adult professionals to attend. Attendees can access the zoom link on our website as we get closer to that date (coming soon). You can also visit our website or email Portland Youth Corps leader Michael Vincent at pyc@portlandmaine.gov. Follow us on Instagram to receive regular updates and important information!