Youth Empowerment Steward (YES)
Are you passionate about disability rights and accessibility in National Parks and public lands? Do you identify as having a disability yourself? Serve with us and help increase access to the outdoors for everyone.
We're looking for folks who are interested in a future career in natural resources, environmental science, parks and recreation, or conservation. These PAID positions will play a crucial role to improve access for people with disabilities in the National Parks and BLM land access. You can work remotely or relocate to one of the project sites during these seasonal positions—it's up to you! You will receive a weekly stipend of $600 during your position, as well as a AmeriCorps Education Award that you can use for education—either towards continuing your education by taking classes or paying off school loans. You will will also receive outdoor industry pro-deals!! Any necessary gear and equipment required for your position will be provided to you. We are happy to provide reasonable accommodations and will work with you and your host site.
Passion for Accessibility
Youth Empowerment Stewards (YES) Program Launched in 2021, the Youth Empowerment Stewards (YES) Program supports the National Park Service’s commitment to open and accessible parks for all Americans. The program is focused on practical, results-driven service work that improves access to public lands while supporting workforce development in conservation.
The YES Program offers hands-on employment and skills training opportunities to young adults (ages 18–30) and Veterans (up to age 35) who have close personal ties to the disability community. Participants serve on high-impact projects that help remove physical and informational barriers at National Park Service sites—ensuring that every American, regardless of ability, can experience the freedom and beauty of our public lands.
YES participants contribute directly to park operations, maintenance, visitor services, and accessibility enhancements, supporting the long-term stewardship of public resources. This program not only strengthens our parks' infrastructure but also fosters career pathways in land management and conservation, building a more resilient and capable workforce.
Since the launch of the YES initiative, there have been more than 50 individual placements, and twelve (12) conservation corps crew members that have served from Hawaii to Maine, Washington to Florida, and everywhere in between. Examples of service projects have included:
- Data collection and accessibility reviews of park features to share with future visitors to support better informed trip planning
- Maintain adaptive equipment and create procedures for visitors to check-out equipment
- Create adaptive bird watching kits
- Create disability awareness trainings for staff and volunteers
- Support park interpretative programming to be more inclusive
| Position Title/Description | Supporting Organization | National Service Category | State/Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Empowerment Steward (YES) Member at National Mall & Memorial Parks | NPS | AmeriCorps | Washington D.C. |
These opportunities are made possible with generous support from the National Park Foundation and through our partnership with the National Park Service.
