Youth Conservation Corps

Frequently Asked Questions about the Youth Conservation Corps

What is the Youth Conservation Corps?
The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) is a summer work-learn-earn employment program that helps participating youth develop an understanding and appreciation of the nation's environment and heritage. The YCC isn't just about work - it's about building a future for yourself and the nation. YCC members learn new skills while conducting work projects to help restore and protect the natural, cultural, and historic resources of our national parks. Not only do YCC employees get paid to work in some of the coolest places in the country, they learn about careers with the National Park Service and gain valuable work skills.

Who can apply?
Young men and women, 15 through 18 years of age, who are permanent residents of the United States, its territories, or possessions, are eligible for employment without regard to social, economic, racial, or ethnic backgrounds. Youth must have a Social Security number or have made application for one and be willing and able to work hard and participate in most work projects. Employment is without regard to Civil Service or classification laws, rules, or regulations.

What does YCC stand for?
YCC stands for Youth Conservation Corps.

How old do you have to be?
You must be between 15 and 18 years old and cannot turn 19 while enrolled in the program.

Is this an internship or a job?
YCC programs are summer youth job programs.

Do you get paid?
Yes, you do get paid.

How do you join the YCC program at President's Park?
In order to apply for the job, you must fill out an application and turn it in by the due date. Applicants are then chosen by lottery for each summer's program.

How many people are hired?
The number of YCC members hired depends on the funding the park has.

Do you need past experience?
No, however you need to want to work.

What requirements are necessary?
You must have a positive attitude, be respectful, able to focus, able to listen, have a great worth ethic, and be able to work well with a group.

What else should I know?
The President's Park YCC program is a non-residential program that lasts from eight to ten weeks during the summer. President's Park YCC members are paid the District of Columbia minimum wage for a 40 hour work week. YCC programs enroll an equal number of male and female youth each summer.

Come join us! See instructions below.

 

YCC members take several field trips each year to experience other National Parks. Here, YCC members talk with a park ranger at Great Falls.

NPS Photo

For More Information...

Contact YCC program coordinator, Monamma AL-Ghuiyy by email, or phone [phone] ext 219).

Applications for the current year were due April 8, 2013. Applications are no longer being accepted for this summer.

Applications will only be accepted by mail addressed to:

Monamma AL-Guiyy
Volunteer & YCC Coordinator
President's Park
1100 Ohio Drive, SW Rm. 344
Washington, DC 20242

Applications for 2014 will be accepted beginning January 1, 2014 and ending April 11, 2014. Download the YCC program application (PDF) and apply to become a YCC member at President's Park.