Dionne Martin

Vermont Youth Conservation Corps

Our model is built of a national conservation Corps model that links the core methods of learning, service to community, and paying jobs for young people. Each year we pay over 250 young people (ages 15-26) to do hands-on work in farming and conservation projects via our small crews across the state of Vermont. These amazing experiences help develop each Corps Member's leadership, teamwork, understanding and embrace of inclusion and equity, and larger professional skills. Regardless of program, the model for a successful VYCC experience is consistent: small, diverse groups of young people working on significant projects. High expectations, hard work, and crew-oriented activities rich with educational experiences draw youth from a variety of backgrounds together to live, work, and recreate as a tight-knit community. More than 6,000 young people have experienced VYCC's programs across a 35-year history. VYCC alumni are leaders in state government and nonprofits; are teaching the next generation of young people; are caring for our environment in their professional and personal lives; and are engaged citizens that take personal responsibility for their actions. Programs are designed to help VYCC realize its vision of every generation committed to their community and the land.