Did you know over 800 young people are employed in environmental leadership roles with the Groundwork Network? Yep! The Groundwork Green Team is where high-school-aged environmental champions get to explore their love of nature, expand their environmental knowledge, and flex their organizing skills by advocating for a greener, healthier, and more just future for all.
This month, Green Team members joined the #YouthForChange celebration to share how they’re improving their communities. From gardening and trail maintenance to bike repairs, they’re proving they aren’t just future leaders—they’re making an impact now.
What Makes groundwork Youth the Leaders of Today?
Driven by the urgency of today’s environmental challenges, young adults across the country are not just waiting for change — they’re making it happen. Through our Green Team program, a paid leadership development program for high schoolers, young people from urban neighborhoods across the nation immerse themselves in environmental work and develop leadership skills that can contribute to meaningful careers down the road. Through education, stewardship, and advocacy work, these young leaders learn what it takes to improve their communities for the better. Here are a few standout examples of how they’re driving real impact today:
Ashly from Groundwork Elizabeth is super proud of the anti-litter campaign she helped launch in her city of Elizabeth, NJ. “This initiative is close to our hearts, and we’ve put a lot of effort into it!”
Isabella from Groundwork Denver is on a mission to keep her city clean and green. “I work to make my community better by doing trash pick-ups and growing crops that go to local schools.”
Ronreco from Groundwork Ohio River Valley takes pride in restoring natural habitats. “I work to make my community better by making it look beautiful with the different plants we plant throughout Avondale.”
The voices of our youth are loud and clear! Their dedication—from anti-litter campaigns and local advocacy to habitat restoration—highlights the impact of youth-driven environmental stewardship. Their drive, commitment, and determination are proof that the youth have what it takes to create meaningful change NOW and in the future! Learn more about the incredible changes youth are driving, the connections they’re forging, and the role the Green Team has played in their lives.
