Want To Help Make Chicago Greener?
Join the SCA’s Urban Green program to get the skills and experience to launch an environmental career. Plant trees, restore habitats, and explore Chicago’s unique environment. We offer both paid and volunteer opportunities for teens and young adults, including seasonal work, internships and single-day projects.
Why SCA Urban Green Chicago?
Since 2010, the SCA has been empowering young people in Chicago to protect the environment and create a healthier, more sustainable city.
Urban Green – Chicago Park District Women’s Conservation Crew
The SCA All Women’s Young Adult Crew, in partnership with the Chicago Park District, will complete various conservation projects within Chicago Park District natural areas. Activities include using hand and power tools to complete projects such as trail/park maintenance, habitat restoration, invasive species removal, herbicide application, and leading stewardship days. Expected dates: May 6 – Nov. 1, 2024. Pay: $660/wk living allowance.
Urban Green – Forest Preserves of Cook County Crew
The SCA’s Conservation Corps Gap Year program, in partnership with the Forest Preserves of Cook County with support from the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development, is designed to provide advanced conservation job training and leadership skills for young adults ages 18-22. Alums of the Chicago Conservation Leadership Corps Program or other Chicago conservation high school programs are highly encouraged to apply to learn advanced skills. Expected dates: June 10 – Nov. 8, 2024 Pay: $16.75/hr.
Urban Green – Morton Arboretum Young Adult Crew
This Conservation Crew, in partnership with the Student Conservation Association and The Morton Arboretum, will help to significantly scale up and expand efforts to improve the Chicago region urban forest to create a healthier tree canopy that is more abundant, more diverse and more equitably distributed to provide needed benefits to all people and communities. Expected dates: May 6 – Nov. 1, 2024. Pay: $660/wk living allowance.
Urban Green members learn how to work with a diverse team of peers; gain knowledge of public land resources, environmental issues, and career readiness skills; increase their understanding of environmental and trail restoration techniques; acquire experience in public service and outdoor recreation; and develop valuable professional skills through teambuilding and leadership activities.
CPR Certification
Financial Literacy
Habitat Restoration
Leave No Trace
Outdoor Ethics
Resume Building
Trail Skills
Thanks to generous support from local and national parks, environmental organizations, schools, youth development organizations, corporations and community groups, the SCA continues to provide conservation opportunities for youth in Chicago and the region.
SCA Chicago Office
Samuel Vergara, Chicago Program Manager
P.O. Box 23288
Chicago, IL 60623
Phone: (312) 239-1661 Ext: 6009
Email: svergara@thesca.org