Department of the Interior – Stewards of the Future Youth Crew Engagement Opportunity

Master Cooperative Agreement Number P15AC00031 was entered into by and between the Department of the Interior, National Park Service, (NPS), and The Student Conservation Association (SCA) to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of our environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land through service opportunities, outdoor skills, and leadership training.

Youth crew members, known as Stewards of the Future (SF) is inspired by John F. Kennedy’s initiatives for youth service. SF challenges a new generation to become stewards for America’s National Parks. Youth recruited from area high schools and community centers will serve alongside NPS staff, volunteers, and interns to engage park visitors, the local community, and the neighborhoods in which they live in the park stories and themes most relevant to them. Throughout the 8-week appointment, Stewards will provide essential visitor services across three national historic sites (JOFI, FRLA, LONG), assist with family programming, and advise on youth-centered programming, both in person and digital formats. In addition, they will develop and host a youth-focused program as a capstone to their gained knowledge and stewardship values. 

The crew Field Leader position is a 12 week appointment, to prepare for the arrival of the youth crew (2.5 weeks) and complete close out (1.5 weeks) will serve as mentor and team leader, while working with Supervisory Park Rangers and Park Mentors from each site to provide site orientation, training and project oversight. The Field Leader will plan and supervise the daily activities of the crew as well as guide Stewards through personal and professional development. The Field Leader serves as resource and guidepost for community-engagement program and appropriately advises and trains youth as needed