A Rocky Mountain Youth Corps member working in the forest. Courtesy/RMYC
RMYC News:
“My experience at Rocky Mountain Youth Corps (RMYC) was literally life changing. It built my physical and mental strength by using tools, hiking and camping. I felt stronger than I ever had in my entire life. RMYC provided me with the connections that helped me be aware of ‘green job’ opportunities,” said a 2021 graduate in reflecting on her experience.
For the last 27 years, RMYC has worked in northern New Mexico to inspire young adults to make a positive difference in themselves and their communities. Through training, service, and relationships, Corpsmembers discover their potential for healthy, impactful lives. RMYC empowers young adults to step into their role as 21st century changemakers and provides a stepping stone to new opportunities.
This summer is no exception. The need for local environmental action is consistently highlighted by ongoing climate threats, earlier and longer fire seasons, and persistent drought throughout the state. Through partnerships with public land management agencies, RMYC crews work on a variety of climate action projects.
For example, crews work with the Carson National Forest to thin the forest, removing the overgrowth most forests in New Mexico are experiencing and helping address the risk of catastrophic wildfire. In Bandelier National Monument, crews address the historic and cultural preservation needs in the Park. In Albuquerque, crews work with Pueblos on invasive species projects. In all areas where RMYC crews work, they develop self-efficacy, outdoor experience, positive relationships, and skills that will carry them forward.
RMYC is actively recruiting young adults (ages 17+) who want to get paid to serve their community, take climate action, and work outside this summer. These AmeriCorps members will not only gain field experience while working on projects, but RMYC staff will work with each member on both personal and professional development opportunities.
Corpsmembers get certificates in First Aid/CPR and Mental Health First Aid. Members also set personal goals and get support on seeing them through. Through project completion, RMYC staff provide Corpsmember with stackable credentials, college scholarships, professional work experience, UNM credit, and personal and professional training opportunities.
“This is a win-win situation where crews work on critical community and climate projects while Corpsmembers receive a life changing, educational experience,” RMYC Executive Director Ben Thomas said.
RMYC is excited to host crews through the middle and upper Rio Grande regions. Crew will be based in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Pecos, Bandelier, Taos and Taos Pueblo. The summer season begins in early June with leadership positions starting in mid-May.
In addition to the summer positions, RMYC also is hosting crews in both Albuquerque and Taos that span into November for young adults from 18-25.
Now is the time to act to address the threats associated with a rapidly changing climate.
New Mexico is witnessing some of the earliest fire season behavior in recent history and this trend will likely continue. RMYC is eager to get youth and young adults engaged, inspired, and educated about actions we can take here at home and within our communities that ripple outwards into a healthier, more connected, and more inspired world for all.
To learn more, click here.
A Rocky Mountain Youth Corps member working in the forest. Courtesy/RMYC
Rocky Mountain Youth Corps members work in the forest. Courtesy/RMYC