Student Conservation Association

Mission

We are the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults. Our mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of the environment through hands-on service.

Success Story

The Student Conservation Association is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults. To date, 100,000+ participants have protected and restored national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces across the country.

After working with the SCA, young people like John M., who served at Anan Wildlife Observatory in Tongass National Forest in Alaska, emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills. As John shares:

“Several months ago, I was in college in the middle of a big city, wishing I could do more for the environment… Now I get to spend almost every day outdoors in the wilds of remote Alaska at Anan Wildlife Observatory in Tongass National Forest, educating visitors on the dozens of bears that frequent the area, and recording bear monitoring data to determine our impact on their behavior.

The Student Conservation Association has helped me contribute a measurable impact and has allowed thousands of visitors to experience the bountiful salmon creek at Anan and its diversity of life by helping me maintain trails, give safety talks, and teach others about wildlife.

I’ve also learned a great deal about other ways of living through this phenomenal experience. Growing up in the big city, I didn’t know the sort of untouched splendor existed outside of history books – I thought we had destroyed all of it. Now that I know it does exist, thanks to the hard work and support of people that truly care for the conservation of America’s lands.

The Student Conservation Association has touched my life and thousands of others to an extent beyond your imagination."