Combining the Best in Youth Development with Park Preservation

osemite Conservancy is committed to the lasting preservation and protection of Yosemite. That is why we are providing funding to cultivate the next generation of park stewards. In 2011, the Youth in Yosemite signature project encompassed eleven individual programs that focused on education, mentoring and wilderness exploration.

With your support, over 27,000 youth participated in Conservancy funded Youth in Yosemite Programs that encourage park stewardship. The extraordinary work of these young people can be found all over the park. For example, through the efforts of the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) over 30 miles of trail were restored and 175 campground fire rings were replaced.

From a young child receiving a Junior Ranger badge, to a middle-school student embarking on a backpacking trip, to a college student working alongside park service personnel, participants create meaningful connections to the park while developing a life-long stewardship ethic.

"These programs offer the opportunity for young people to learn about themselves in the context of the natural world, perceive new avenues for growth and experience the value of our national parks."

- CHRISTY HOLLOWAY
Yosemite Conservancy Supporter