Since then, we've empowered tens of thousands of underprepared young adults to enter the job market, earn their high school diplomas, and build brighter futures.
By 1993, we expanded our impact with the After School Program, addressing critical gaps in the public education system and supporting the next generation’s success.
LA Conservation Corps unleashes the power of youth to make a positive impact on the community and the environment. Our programs provide mutual benefit for young adults seeking self-sufficiency, a community that needs services, and an environment that needs to be healed.
Young Adults Corps
We serve young adults ages 18–26 who are seeking job training and educational support. Through our program, Corpsmembers gain hands-on experience by working on various environmentally focused projects, such as habitat restoration, fire fuel reduction, community beautification, tree planting, recycling, and trail building.
Approximately 30% of our Corpsmembers enter the program without a high school diploma. While in the Corps, they have the opportunity to complete their high school education with the LA Education Corps, gain valuable work experience, obtain industry-recognized credentials and certifications, earn a paycheck, and receive comprehensive support.
Our Corpsmember Development Department provides comprehensive support services to all Young Adult Corpsmembers, helping them overcome barriers to success while staying focused on their work and education.
Corps Navigators meet one-on-one with Corpsmembers to assess their needs and provide essential assistance, including housing, transportation, food, and legal support.
As Corpsmembers advance through the program, our Corpsmember Development Department connects them with employers who recognize and value the hands-on training and experience they gain at the Corps.
How Our Program Works
During a Corpsmember's first month, they will attend Orientation, complete OSHA and First Aid/CPR trainings and enroll in the LA Education Corps to earn a high school diploma, if still needed.
After receiving important onboarding training, Corpsmembers complete a Career Assessment and develop a Career Action Plan and have an opportunity to join the Corpsmember Leadership Council and complete Driver’s Education and Behind-the-Wheel training, if applicable. Corpsmembers complete 300-700 hours of work experience and can earn multiple on-the-job training (OJT) certifications; they participate in life skills workshops and complete at least one technical training.
During the second phase of the program, Corpsmembers earn their Work Readiness Certificates and finish classes to earn their High School Diploma, if applicable. Corpsmembers complete requirements to earn a Driver’s License, draft a resume and meet with Corpsmember Development staff to plan for life after the Corps. This phase includes completion of 700-1000 hours of work experience, earning more OJT certifications and enrolling in vocational and/or post-secondary educational classes/courses.
In the final phase, Corpsmembers meet with Corpsmember Development staff to plan their transition from the program including an opportunity to apply for Transition Support Fund awards for post-program support. Corpsmembers will have completed 1000-1400 hours of work experience by this point and earned multiple OJT certifications; they will have participated in additional life skills workshops and technical trainings. A Vocational Education Certificate is earned and Corpsmembers attend at least one job fair.
Many of our Corpsmembers move on to environmentally focused careers with our government partners including California State Parks, County of Los Angeles and City of Los Angeles as well as private landscaping and other businesses.
“Joining the LA Conservation Corps was a turning point in my life. It provided me with the opportunity to turn my life around into something meaningful. They gave me the tools I needed to succeed in my education and in my career. The Corps helped me earn my high school diploma, my driver’s license, my forklift certification, and helped me learn new skills that will help me with my future.”
“For me, the best projects have been when I’ve gotten to work out in nature. I remember one day when we worked in the Angeles National Forest; I saw a woman park ranger working there, and I thought to myself, one day I’ll be like her.”
“I’ve noticed that, growing up where I grew up in South Central Los Angeles, a lot of people who look like me often don’t really get opportunities to go into stable positions. The Corps is helping me prepare for a career with the County. I’m excited to show people who look like me that it’s possible.”
Maribell, a recent alum of the LA Conservation Corps, is now an educator at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. During her time as a Corpsmember, she gained hands-on experience with marine life through the Tidepool Cruiser program, deepening her passion for ocean conservation. Thanks to a Transition Support Fund award from our Corpsmember Development Department, she was able to launch her career at the aquarium and take the first steps toward her dream of becoming a marine biologist.
Maribell, a recent alum of the LA Conservation Corps, is now an educator at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. During her time as a Corpsmember, she gained hands-on experience with marine life through the Tidepool Cruiser program, deepening her passion for ocean conservation. Thanks to a Transition Support Fund award from our Corpsmember Development Department, she was able to launch her career at the aquarium and take the first steps toward her dream of becoming a marine biologist.
After school programs
As part of the LA Conservation Corps' commitment to education, our After School Programs extend the school day for thousands of children across 23 LAUSD campuses. We provide high-quality care for students of all grade levels through homework assistance, tutoring, enrichment activities, and sports programs, partnering with LAUSD's Beyond the Bell Branch for nearly 30 years.
We recognize the importance of keeping the lights on after school—because not every child has a quiet place to study or access to essential resources. Our dedicated team creates a safe, supportive environment where students can be themselves while growing academically and socially, empowering them with the tools and encouragement to succeed in school and beyond.
Our After School Programs are designed around six core elements that foster growth, learning, and success for every participant:
- Safe and Supportive Environment
- Active and Engaged Learning
- Skill Building
- Youth Voice and Leadership
- Healthy Choices and Behaviors
- Diversity, Access, and Equity
LA Conservation Corps Headquarters
1400 N Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Main: (213) 362-9000
