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Youth Ambassador Program

DCNR’s Youth Ambassador program is a 10-month volunteer opportunity aimed at engaging bright and energetic youth that have an appreciation for the outdoors and who care about the environment.

Through this new program, motivated young adults will be able to develop a connection with one or more of Pennsylvania’s 121 state parks and 20 forest districts.

As an ambassador, these individuals will focus on highlighting and promoting the recreational opportunities, volunteer work, and experiences available to youth in the state parks and forests they represent.

In addition, participants will gain:

  • Experience for college application and/or senior projects
  • Gratification of giving back to local community and the environment
  • Networking opportunities
  • $100 gift card at end of service
  • Recognition at PA Parks and Forest Foundation (PPFF) annual dinner

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible to serve as a DNCR Youth Ambassador, you must:

  • Be at least 14 years of age at the start of enrollment and must not graduate from high school before completion of the program
  • Be a resident of Pennsylvania
  • Have a source of transportation to and from desired host park or forest district region

What Is Expected?

  • DCNR Youth Ambassadors will be able to take part in the following activities throughout the duration of the year in order to raise awareness about youth engagement in Pennsylvania state parks and forests:
  • Attend park/forestry events to assist staff, represent youth, and communicate with the public
  • Meet and interact with park/forest friends groups, if applicable
  • Act as liaison with youth-related organizations (school districts, YMCA, girl/boy scouts, 4-H, etc)
  • Assist in park/forestry volunteer projects, such as maintaining trails, planting trees, removing invasive species, or helping with other park/forest needs
  • Suggest content to highlight and engage youth about park/forest’s social media platforms, if available (e.g. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter).
  • Use your personal social media networks to share your experience using the hashtag #DCNRAmbassador

Available Parks and Forests to Serve

DCNR is seeking youth ambassadors for the following state park and forest locations and regions:

  • Chapman State Park (northwestern PA)
  • Point State Park (southwestern PA)
  • Little Buffalo State Park (southcentral PA)
  • Tobyhanna State Park (northeastern PA)
  • Neshaminy State Park (southeastern PA)
  • Clear Creek State Forest (northwestern PA)
  • Forbes State Forest (southwestern PA)
  • Tiadaghton State Forest (northcentral PA)
  • Weiser State Forest (southeastern PA)

Ambassadors are encouraged to explore any of DCNR’s other park and forests to complete their service.

Note: This is a pilot program, which DCNR hopes to expand to more locations in the future.