The MCLC program aims to increase diversity within the green industry by engaging traditionally under-represented youth in hands-on service to public land. The program, 11 years in operation, has employed nearly 1000 teenagers in land/water conservation, urban agriculture and sustainability work. “One of the barriers to getting and keeping youth of color interested in a green career is that they simply don’t know anyone who looks like them in the field. That’s why this day is so important.” says August Marie Ball, Program Manager of MCLC. On Friday, representatives from the Department of Natural Resources, United States Forest Service and members of the urban agricultural movement will present for 15 minutes each to over 100 youth.
The program is a collaborative product of Student Conservation Association, Johnson Controls Inc. and Employ Milwaukee (formerly Milwaukee Area Workforce Investment Board, MAWIB). The program is philanthropically funded by Johnson Controls, Inc., Milwaukee County Parks, Bader Philanthropies and Forest County Potowatomi Community Foundation.
For more information about Student Conservation Association’s Milwaukee program, please visit www.thesca.org/milwaukee
Leave a Reply