TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is seeking community-based organizations to partner in its annual Youth Inclusion Initiative, a summer program aimed at preparing young people for environmental careers and strengthening ties between communities and the state’s environmental workforce.
The six-week program provides training and hands-on experience for participants ages 16 to 20 from eligible communities. Environmental organizations, colleges and universities, and community advocacy or faith-based groups may apply for grants of up to $100,000 to support recruitment, supervision and mentorship of youth participants.
Grant details are available at dep.nj.gov/yii/grant/. An informational webinar is scheduled for Feb. 12, and proposals must be submitted through the DEP’s System for Managing Grants Electronically 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.”
Program participants receive training and guidance from DEP professionals and gain exposure to a broad range of environmental fields. Since the initiative began in 2021, 274 young adults have taken part in activities such as facility tours, stream assessments and invasive species identification. The program also includes professional development days with guest speakers and résumé workshops.
Grant recipients are also required to complete community projects that reduce pollution, enhance green spaces and build community pride. DEP officials said participants have contributed more than 5,000 hours to projects including tree plantings, rain and community gardens, stormwater education efforts and neighborhood cleanups.
“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.”
Community partners who have participated in the initiative praised its impact on local youth.
“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 of 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.”
More information about the Youth Inclusion Initiative is available at dep.nj.gov/yii/.
