Through a partnership between the National Park Service (NPS), Environmental Learning for Kids, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), the Urban Ranger program is a youth employment opportunity that provides extensive educational and professional development experiences to underserved and underrepresented youth from the Denver metropolitan area in addition to increased hands-on learning for youth in our community. Through training administered by NPS Rangers, CPW staff and ELK staff, the Urban Ranger crew is able to work as educational facilitators and ambassadors on behalf of all three agencies throughout their communities. The Urban Rangers teach programs to diverse youth about how they can explore, learn about, and protect our natural world.
How to become an Urban Ranger:
The best way to become an Urban Ranger is to get involved in ELK’s Leadership Corps program. All high school students are welcome to join the monthly meetings that are held in the Montbello Community. Participants in Leadership Corps gain leadership experience and professional skills that set them up for success in the application process. Stay tuned for our 2024 Urban Ranger application.
For more information, contact Jeremy Sifuentes:
Phone: 956-572-3445 | Email: jsifuentes@elkkids.org
Activities:
- Become an environmental educator and teach youth how to fish and explore nature
- Work alongside state park staff to build trails, improve habitat, and enhance visitor experience through service projects
- Meet land management professionals to learn about careers at the National Parks Service and Colorado Parks and Wildlife
- Enjoy outdoor recreation activities like camping, fishing, and rock climbing
Benefits:
- Youth gain hands-on training offered by ELK staff and partnering organizations
- Youth gain networking experience and connections to organizations in natural resource careers
- Leadership development skills increase
- Professional development skills increase
- Expands environmental education opportunities to underserved communities
