The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults.
Founded in 1957, the SCA is devoted to building access to nature, providing conservation career opportunities for young people and teaching members how to become environmental stewards. The SCA also remains committed to building the next generation of conservation leaders dedicated to the lifelong protection of the environment and our communities.
Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community natural areas across the country. After working with the SCA, they emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.
Founded in 1957, the SCA is devoted to creating access to nature, providing conservation career opportunities for young people and teaching crew members how to become environmental stewards.
The SCA’s mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of the environment and communities by engaging young people through hands-on service projects.
Since 1957, the SCA has provided more than 100,000 young people with opportunities to protect the planet through service projects at national parks, state forests and community natural areas.
The SCA’s Executive Leadership Team is also comprised of leading experts in the fields of conservation, partnership development, philanthropy, communications and corporate relations. Together, they mentor and guide more than 150 employees across the country.
The SCA is led by a diverse group of Board Members ranging from leaders in both the public and private sectors who care deeply about responsible use and protection of the natural environment and empowering the next generation of conservation leaders.
Liz Putnam founded the SCA in 1957 while attending Vassar College. She modeled the SCA after the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps and enlisted student volunteers to help with the upkeep of U.S. national parks and public natural areas. Her work earned her a host of awards, including the Presidential Citizens Medal from President Barack Obama, President Ronald Reagan’s Volunteer Action Award, the Garden Club of America’s Margaret Douglas Medal, the Rachel Carson Leadership Award, the Cornelius Amory Pugsley Medal for contributions to public parks, and honorary doctorates from the University of Vermont and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.
Manage and mentor junior program participants working outdoors at sites in various states.
Hyper-local community service projects in a city near you.
Wildland fire hazardous fuels reduction.
Conservation internships for a variety of fields.
Join our community of supporters who care deeply about preserving parks, public lands and urban natural areas.
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