Work that Builds More thank Parks
Every summer, Youth Employment in Parks (YEP) gives Anchorage teens the opportunity to earn a paycheck while making a lasting difference in their community. As they restore habitats, improve trails, plant trees, and care for Anchorage’s parks, young people gain far more than work experience, they build confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper connection to the outdoors.
More than a Summer Job
Youth Employment in Parks is one of Anchorage’s longest-running youth conservation corps programs. Since 2007, hundreds of teens have gained paid work experience while improving parks, trails, streams, and natural areas across the Municipality of Anchorage. YEP helps young people build confidence, develop career skills, and discover future pathways in conservation, natural resource management, and public service, all while creating healthier parks and stronger communities.
YEP combines meaningful conservation work with career skills that help teens grow personally and professionally.
Participants develop:
- Leadership and teamwork
- Communication and problem-solving
- Time management and responsibility
- Environmental stewardship
- Career exploration and workplace readiness
- Financial literacy, resume writing, and first aid training
Building a Better Anchorage
Each summer, YEP crews improve parks and trails throughout the Municipality of Anchorage, creating lasting benefits for people, wildlife, and future generations. From rehabilitating trails and restoring streambanks to planting native trees, improving park amenities, and removing invasive species, every project strengthens the health and accessibility of Anchorage’s public lands. Crew members see firsthand how their hard work transforms the places where people hike, play, gather, and connect with nature. In the process, they leave behind a legacy that will benefit the community for years to come.
Apply
YEP offers opportunities for youth to grow their skills and leadership through three positions: Crew Members, Senior Crew Members, and Crew Leaders, with increasing levels of responsibility and leadership. Applications open each year in February.
Investing in Parks. Investing in Youth.
Youth Employment in Parks is made possible through the partnership between Anchorage Parks & Recreation, Anchorage Park Foundation, and the generous support of foundations, businesses, public agencies, and community members who believe in Anchorage’s young people and public lands.
