The deadline for submitting an application for the 2011 on line application process by noon on April 13, 2011.
A great "After" picture from the Leesylvania crew
Youth who are at least fourteen years old as of June 1, 2011 through youth eighteen years old who will have completed no higher than the eleventh grade this year are eligible for the program.
Bear Creek crew put the finishing touches on the
information kiosk for the new park archery range
The Youth Conservation Corps is a three week long, service learning program. Ten youth work and live in a state park for the three weeks under the supervision of three college age or older supervisors. The program is also closely supervised by state park staff. The work is hard, manual labor and projects include trail work, invasive species removal,park beautification projects and small construction projects. The youth prepare their own meals, keep their living area clean, and learn what it's like to work hard and have a sense of accomplishment. The youth learn to work and have fun as a team.
Lake Anna crew works on the fence along the beach
When they aren't working they attend environmental and cultural programs in our parks, participate in outdoor recreation, and visit local attractions. Youth who complete the three weeks go home with a $500 stipend, new friends, and a lifetime of memories.
Across the state from Lake Anna, the Wilderness Road crew work on a different fence
The application process is highly competitive. Selection is made based on how the applicant answers the questions onon line application, the youth should have the email addresses of two references.
http://www.imm-cms.com/manage/article/
Kayaking is one of many outdoor recreation opportunities crew members get during the program
After the April 13 deadline, Gaston Rouse and I will review all of the applications and select the top candidates. Acceptance letters will go out before May 1. Since some successful candidates end up not being able to attend the program, we often are able to select more youth within the following few weeks.
The Shenandoah River crew visit Luray Caverns
Don't wait until the last minute to apply. The deadline is firm! Be sure to check out the Virginia State Parks Youth Conservation Corps Facebook Page.
Each crew poses at the park sign with park staff
Here's the Smith Mountain Lake State Park crew