The Department of Environmental Protection invites community-based organizations across the state to apply for grants to participate in its annual Youth Inclusion Initiative. The six-week summer program provides young people from eligible communities with training in environmental careers, building a more inclusive workforce and boosting community connections. Local environmental organizations, higher education institutions, and community advocacy or religious groups can now apply for grants that provide up to $100,000 per organization to support the recruitment, supervision, and mentorship of participants aged 16 to 20. Grant details can be accessed at dep.nj.gov/yii/grant/.
A webinar is scheduled for Feb. 12. Proposals must be submitted online through DEP’s System for Managing Grants Electronically (SAGE) by 5 p.m. on March 12. “Through the Youth Inclusion Initiative, the DEP and its partners are helping young people gain the skills necessary to get started in the environmental field and make their communities more resilient,” said Acting DEP Commissioner Ed Potosnak. “This initiative is crucial for building a diverse and skilled workforce that can tackle the environmental challenges of the future, while also reinforcing strong community connections. I invite community organizations across the state to join us in this important mission.” “The Youth Inclusion Initiative is a cornerstone of our efforts to foster an inclusive and knowledgeable workforce. By engaging young people in meaningful environmental work, we are laying the groundwork for a sustainable future,” said Elizabeth Dragon, Assistant Commissioner for Community Investment and Economic Revitalization. “I am grateful for the dedication of our partners who make this program a success year after year.” Program participants will receive hands-on training and guidance from DEP professionals, gaining valuable skills and knowledge across a wide range of environmental fields.
Since its inception in 2021, DEP’s Youth Inclusion Initiative has empowered 274 young adults by providing valuable experience through activities such as facility tours, stream assessments, and invasive species identification. The program also includes professional development days featuring guest speakers and résumé workshops. Each group that receives grant funding will also complete community projects that reduce pollution, enhance green spaces and increase community pride. Since the program’s launch in 2021, participants have collectively dedicated over 5,000 hours to community projects that include tree plantings, the creation and maintenance of rain and community gardens, initiatives to improve stormwater awareness, and neighborhood cleanups.“
It has been an honor for Ironbound Community Corporation to have been invited to participate in the Youth Inclusion Initiative since its inception. This program has made a powerful impact on our youth here in the East Ward of Newark,” said Charles Barlow-Richardson, Director of Programs at Ironbound Community Corporation. “It has opened their eyes to the many ways they can be part of protecting the environment and shaping a more just and sustainable future. It has also provided them with a real opportunity to build skills, grow professionally, and see themselves as leaders. This initiative continues to be one of the highlights of our year.” “Groundwork Elizabeth is proud to stand alongside the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection in advancing the Youth Inclusion Initiative,” said John Evangelista, Executive Director at Groundwork Elizabeth.
“This program reflects a deep commitment to empowering young people with meaningful opportunities, leadership skills, and pathways into environmental stewardship and careers that strengthen both their futures and our communities. We are committed and thrilled to be a part of this outstanding program.”To learn more about the Youth Inclusion Initiative, visit dep.nj.gov/yii/