Programs

Audubon Youth Leaders

Working with the next generation of environmental stewards

At the Audubon Center at Debs Park, we believe in the importance of educating youth in environmental conservation. Our Audubon Youth Leaders Program engages youth to provide them with tools and hands-on experience to pursue conservation work and advocacy in their communities. Since 2018, we've worked with over 200 students as Audubon staff continues to provide local youth with a wide range of training, including education on California native plants, restoration practices, and community engagement. Through classroom visits, internships, and advocacy opportunities, we are working to build the next generation of environmental stewards and leaders.

Audubon Youth Leaders Summer 2025

Audubon Center at Debs Park is looking for high school sophomores to seniors who are curious and passionate about the world around them to join our Audubon Youth Leaders (AYL) program. We seek students who are open to new experiences, working with a diverse and collaborative team, and making a difference in their community and their natural world. At the culmination of their program, students will earn a California Naturalist certification along with an Educational Award for their time and dedication.

No prior job experience is required. However, Audubon Youth Leaders must be willing to commit to the outlined times and days and work to the best of their abilities for the duration of the program. Audubon Center staff will provide ongoing support throughout the program. Please note that we complete habitat restoration work outdoors rain or shine.

Program Dates/ Días de Programa: June 23rd, 2025 - July 17th, 2025 (4-week program). Participants are only allowed to miss one program day and it must be made up at a future time.

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‎‎Program Time: Mondays to Thursdays, 8:30AM to 1:30PM with one additional Friday evening.

Applications for the Summer 2025 program are now open!

>>>Click the link for the application and for more information.<<<

Applications are due May 21st at 3:30PM. The application will automatically close at that time.

Audubon Youth Leaders (AYL) is a program centered on improving access to leadership development opportunities in an outdoor setting for youth. Audubon Youth Leaders focuses on developing leadership skills, hands-on service learning in native ecology, and working together as a team to carry out a youth-led conservation action project. This opportunity was made possible by The Nature Conservancy.

Have questions? Contact us: debspark@audubon.org or call 323-221-2255 x113