The SCA has partnered with the Maryland Park Service to support the delivery of two vital statewide corps programs; the Maryland Conservation Jobs Corps, and the Maryland Veterans Conservation Corps, respectively engaging youth and military veterans in hands-on service to Maryland’s vast network of public lands.
The Conservation Jobs Corps (CJC) was established in 2008 on the 75th anniversary of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and was developed by the Maryland Park Service into a statewide program with a huge community impact. Following in the spirit of the CCC, the CJC actively engages local youth and young adults to provide hands-on conservation service opportunities in Maryland State Parks and public lands. The mission of the CJC is to provide youth and young adults with opportunities for skills training, empowerment, and employment and to restore natural and recreational resources in Maryland State Parks, public lands in general, and the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
The Veterans Conservation Corps (VCC) was established to empower and engage former military service members in conservation work as they transition from military careers into civilian life. Since its creation, the VCC has consistently proven itself as a highly qualified team and an invaluable asset to Maryland’s public lands. Veterans on the team receive training in park operations, maintenance, and environmental conservation, then apply those skills in the field to address the needs of the Maryland Park Service. This could involve supporting other statewide corps programs on large-scale projects or spearheading the planning and execution of technical trail or construction projects. The professional experience and networking opportunities obtained through the VCC help to advance each veteran’s personal and professional development and prepare them for careers in conservation and land management.
