A better you

Our programs are designed to help you gain the fundamental job skills, experience, and work ethic needed to reach any career goal – be it teacher, doctor, or wilderness ranger. Our programs have something to provide both a teenager looking for their first summer work experience and a recent college grad needing specific certifications to land their dream job. No matter the path you are on, we can help you reach your goals!





A better planet

It is important to know that the work you do matters! We partner with land management agencies and like-minded non-profits across the west to complete high priority conservation projects designed to improve the lands and communities we serve. Typical projects include trail building, fuels reduction, habitat enhancement, stream restoration, and a host of other activities our interns perform, like monitoring bats in Idaho caves!

job skills focus

Young Adult Programs

The Young Adult Program integrates team-based work projects, education, and on-site vocational training into an experience that prioritizes personal growth, and the development of conservation work skills. Participants develop technical skills working on a variety of conservation projects while developing the soft skills needed to be successful in any career field.

Benefits: Earn a stipend and AmeriCorps education award.

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Our Urban and Community Forestry program operates Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm (some variation expected, local housing not provided) in the Boise, Eugene, and Tacoma areas. UCF focuses on improving the health and resilience of urban forests through projects that include tree planting, tree care, invasive species management, and creating defensible spaces to reduce fire risk. We collaborate with local communities, municipalities, and partners to enhance green spaces in urban areas, increasing access to nature and supporting sustainability efforts.

Benefits: Earn a stipend and AmeriCorps education award.

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CWPC Crews operate in partnership with fire professionals to complete high-priority projects that reduce the threat of wildfires on communities. An advanced educational curriculum accompanies the experience, with lessons ranging from group dynamics and environmental policy to stewardship and resource management.

Benefits: Earn a stipend and AmeriCorps education award.

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The Leadership Development Program (LDP) offers advanced training to aspiring outdoor enthusiasts interested in pursuing leadership roles with conservation and outdoor organizations. Participants develop hard skills working on technical conservation projects while developing the soft skills required to successfully lead groups in the outdoors.

Benefits: Earn a stipend and AmeriCorps education award.

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Youth Programs

The residential Youth Camping program combines education and job skills training with outdoor adventure for 16 to 18 year olds. With the guidance of experienced field staff, youth crew members work on conservation, reforestation, and recreation projects, while developing leadership and teamwork skills. Crews camp for their entire session, traveling to new projects often and pursuing outdoor adventures on the weekends.

Benefits: Earn a weekly stipend and bonuses plus potential school credit.

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With experienced field staff guiding you, Youth Community participants complete service projects in their community with local park agencies and non-profit partners. Crews meet at a designated drop-off/pick-up site, Monday through Friday. Members spend an average of 6.5 hours per day on service-projects along with one hour per day participating in education lessons.

Benefits: Earn a weekly stipend and bonuses plus potential school credit.

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Backcountry Leadership Program (BLP) provides additional leadership skills and training for those who excelled in a previous youth camping session. BLP’ers hike deep into secluded wilderness areas and work on intense, challenging, and technical projects, while practicing skills like goal setting, time management, positive motivation, and group leadership.

Benefits: Earn a weekly stipend and bonuses plus potential school credit.

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Internship Program

Our Internship Program (age 18+) provides training and hands-on experience with land and water resource management agencies, such as the National Park Service, United States Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, state organizations and non-profits in Idaho, Oregon and Washington. 

Field Staff

Our field staff (age 20+) perform many roles and are the key to our program’s success. They understand that being a leader is much more than being a boss. They have the drive, commitment, and mental toughness to carry them through the unexpected challenges that arise at the most inopportune of times: a remote location with bad weather, in the middle of trying to complete a mile of new trail, finish a bridge, or eradicate an invasive species.

WELCOME TO THE OUTDOORS

At Northwest Youth Corps, we value the unique perspectives and experiences that individuals bring to our programs, recognizing diversity as a cornerstone of strong communities. We are committed to fostering an environment where all participants and staff feel welcome, supported, and empowered to succeed. Our programs honor the historical significance of public lands while actively working to make outdoor spaces accessible and enriching for people of all backgrounds. We strive to provide opportunities for everyone to learn and grow, ensuring our programs benefit all, regardless of experience or identity.

Promoting personal GROWTH

Alumni testimonials

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