This fall, when we asked Corps Members what they are hopeful about, they had a lot to say. The overarching message we heard from young people on our conservation teams was refreshingly positive: despite the challenges around us, we can make a difference.
“I feel hopeful being outdoors. Places of great natural beauty are still here. Sometimes we can lose sight of that because of what’s happening in the world. Especially in fall, seeing the seasonal cycle and knowing these lands will be vital and renewed next spring makes me hopeful.
“When I applied to VYCC what motivated me was community. Meeting people who are energized to make a life that is meaningful and is helpful to others also gives me hope.”
– Sophia Lawrence
“VYCC and other corps around the U.S. are making a huge difference. I feel hopeful that this work continues to better the parks and public lands. It’s nice working at a place like Groton State Park where I camped as a kid. Where we live is so beautiful.”
– Isaac Kennedy
At the end of their season, conservation crews celebrated completing projects that will have long-term impacts: increasing biodiversity in forests, increasing flood resilience, reducing erosion, improving water quality—and instilling hope among Corps Members.
“My crew’s work has been really impactful. We’re helping create conditions that support the return of old growth forests. We’ve been leaving messier forests, which I’ve learned is actually more beneficial. I have learned that removing the invasives helps with bird migration. It has a cascading effect. It’s nice knowing that this work will benefit future generations. I feel good about what I do for work for once.”
– Sam McIntire
“Our crew is making a difference. Having done a lot of hiking since the Vermont floods, I can see how much erosion has occurred on trails statewide. We built puncheon at Mount Ascutney on a very wet section of trail. Our project partner explained that the puncheon would prevent the trail from becoming a mud pit and would, over time, help it re-naturalize with native mosses and lichens.”
– Sophia Lawrence
“Nature needs our support. I’ve been looking for ways to help steward the environment. I’ve known that I wanted to go down a conservation or forestry route; doing [VYCC] has affirmed that this is what I want my career to be.”
– Isaac Kennedy
Program participants gained credentials, earned college credits, and connected with employers. Several Members secured employment in Vermont at the end of their terms.
“The VYCC experience has had a lot of variety, and I’m learning so many new skills. I’m not afraid of chainsaws anymore! I used to be; now I’m an effective sawyer. Doing VYCC has changed my future plans considerably. I didn’t have a concept of how much saw work would resonate with me. Now I feel like I can do something with my life.
“I’ve learned a lot the past few months. I feel like I’m part of something.”
– Sam McIntire
Do you want to be part of the VYCC community, too? Explore VYCC opportunities or learn how to support our work.
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