Prior to 2026, participants entering 8th grade joined the Service Learning Crew (SLC), however, all youth programs now fall under the same umbrella term: Youth Conservation Corps (YCC). All youth members participating in YCC similarly engage in conservation projects and building community-oriented skills, but at varying degrees of age-appropriate challenge. The goal for the Trailblazers program is to experience a strong balance of outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. The new backpacking expedition component to the Trailblazers program strives to empower the interests and passions of 8th and 9th-grade participants who are learning about their capabilities and potential to impact their landscape. 

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Being part of a Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) Trailblazers crew means joining a 2-week team of 8-12 peers entering 8th or 9th grade in the following school year, along with two adult crew leaders. 4-6 hours per day are spent on service projects with the remaining hours of the day being outdoor recreation, group team building activities, outdoor sports and experiential education. Leaders are trained to facilitate a variety of experiences relevant to the crew’s needs, always striving to build individual resilience and a strong sense of community. 

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The YCC experience as a whole seeks to align environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation while building resilience and community amongst participants. YCC invites participants to engage in stewardship projects that range from trail building and environmental restoration to managing invasive species and improving wildlife habitats. These efforts leave a lasting legacy, enhancing both the natural environment and local communities.

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While our members face demanding conditions, they leave with new skills, enduring friendships, or an authentic sense of pride in their accomplishments. YCC offers an experience that can shape both the individual and the environment, creating a positive ripple effect that resonates far beyond the season's end.