We believe young people change the world.
The model for a successful VYCC experience is consistent: small, diverse groups of young people working on significant projects. High expectations, hard work, and crew-oriented activities rich with educational experiences draw youth from a variety of backgrounds together to live, work, and recreate as a tight-knit community.
Our office is located in Richmond, VT.
About Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
We believe young people change the world.
Our model is built off a national conservation Corps model that links the core methods of learning, service to the community, and paying jobs for young people. Each year we pay over 250 young people (ages 15-26) to do hands-on work in farming and conservation projects via our small crews across the state of Vermont. These amazing experiences help develop each Corps Member’s leadership, teamwork, understanding and embrace of inclusion and equity, and larger professional skills.
The Employee Experience
As a team, we work hard, outdoors, on projects that matter to our communities. And we grow.
Let’s talk about that a bit….
· As a team – Circle up at the start of each day – what tools do we need, which farm field or section of trail are we working, who is cooking, who is planting, who has a great game to play? “Honestly, my biggest accomplishment was making some truly incredible friends. The people I worked with at VYCC are strong, funny, passionate folks, and I am so grateful to have them in my life.” – Bex
· We work hard – We sure do! We move large rocks to build trails, harvest thousands of potatoes in a morning, dig holes to plant trees along our rivers, pack boxes of food for hundreds of families, and clean our tools at the end of a long day. “I’ve come to appreciate hard work, dirty hands and sore muscles, as these stand as a testament to the things we create.” – Alyssa
· Outdoors — On our beautiful farm in Richmond, in state parks, on trails, and on the lake. All day. Will there be rain, bugs, hot days, cold mornings, and mud? Yes, there will! Will there be Vermont beauty, songbirds, sunrises, overlooks, and the energy of being outside all day every day? Oh yeah, that too! “I’m passionate about showing people how powerful, wholesome, beautiful, and healing the outdoors can be…. Oh, and I love being SILLY!” – Andy
· On meaningful projects – that matter to our communities! We build trails that increase access to the outdoors, create backcountry infrastructure that supports our state lands, grow fresh food for Vermonters in need, and improve the health of our forests and waterways. “the town’s excitement reminds us that our work is more than cutting wood or pounding posts; we are creating access to a unique habitat, and the community’s support fuels our own interests.” – Thomas
· And grow personally— When we dig in and work together on meaningful projects, we believe in ourselves and each other, feel a strong sense of belonging, build skills, and see possibility in all directions. “My proudest moment was seeing my saw crew grow as sawyers, and see them start taking on bigger and more complex trees with confidence.” – Sable
If you are ready to dig in, with a spirit of curiosity and courage, then this is the place for you. Believe in yourself; we certainly do!
Learning together, with difference, and kindness: We are strongest when VYCC represents all members of our community, we lean into and learn from our similarities and differences, and we celebrate one another with kindness. VYCC is committed to creating an inclusive experience for our Corps Members and reducing barriers so that all people can thrive at VYCC.
Ideal Candidate
Corps Members come to VYCC from all over the country, motivated by many different things. We don't have many prerequisites for most of our position. To be a successful Corps Member, you should be curious about the work, excited about the prospect of spending so much time outside, and open to meeting your crewmates and working alongside them!
A successful Crew Leader is able to foster an inclusive and supportive crew community, help Crew Members navigate challenges and celebrate successes, and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth.
A successful Crew Member is able to be a part of a supportive and inclusive crew community, navigate and learn from challenges, and strive towards personal and professional growth.
Room and Board
All camping crews receive full room and board while on crew. That looks like a budget for food, and weekly farm shares, as well as all the gear and tools needed to camp comfortably. Gear assistance is available for personal gear or clothing as needed.
Employee Perks
Leader Compensation
- $515-815/week, depending on crew and experience
- CPR Certification & Wilderness First Aid Training
- On the job learning opportunities to expand technical skill knowledge through the season
- Career pathways support
- Access to our robust Alumni network for future adventures and career assistance
Member Compensation
- AmeriCorps Living Allowance of $465 per week paid biweekly
- Eligible for AmeriCorps Segal Education Award upon successful completion of service (service terms vary by member)
- Crew Members may be eligible for student loan forbearance
- In-season learning opportunities to expand technical skill knowledge through the season
- Career pathways support
- Access to our robust Alumni network for future adventures and career assistance
Getting Here and Getting Around
Getting Here
The Vermont Youth Conservation Corps is housed in the historic West Monitor Barn, visible from both I-89 and VT Route 2 at 1949 East Main Street Richmond, VT 05477. Richmond, VT is approximately 20 minutes south of Burlington (nearest airport), 35 minutes north of Montpelier.
Getting Around
During the season, on Camping Crews, vehicles are provided by the VYCC to transport Corps Members and Leaders.