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Youth Expeditions

Overview

[Image Description: Two MCC members are wading into a bright blue lake. They are both wearing their MCC shirts and waders, holding nets for specimen collection.]

Qualified individuals with disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.

Important notes before applying:

  • Montana residency is required to participate in this program.
  • We will begin reviewing applications on February 20th, 2023.

Expeditions are full for Summer 2023 - Get notified for Summer 2024!


"I think one thing I’ve learned about all the places collectively is that in order to conserve the things that are important to you, you must be willing to do the work yourself. I also learned about the history and significance of each place. I’ve always had an appreciation of these places, but now that I’ve lived and worked at them I feel as if they have become a part of who I am."

  - MCC EXPEDITION MEMBER


 Are you looking for a different kind of opportunity?  As a part of MCC's Expedition Program, you will build new relationships, work hard, and explore Montana.  Come challenge yourself personally and as a leader!

Ignite your summer with the Montana Conservation Corps Youth Expedition Program. We have options across the state for you to choose from! All projects are centered around conservation service in Montana’s great outdoors. These programs send you on 11-day trips around the state for conservation work.  Projects could include trails, invasive species management, habitat restoration, and more!

Combining this work with our CORE curriculum, we strive to cultivate communities of young people inspired to build a brighter future.

Expeditions are for Montana high schoolers ages 14 to 18 and run during the summer months of June - August. We run these expeditions as 2 or 4-week sessions.

Our youth programs operate out of our North Branch office in Kalispell, Montana and our South Branch office in Bozeman, Montana.

[Image Description: Four MCC members standing on a hillside filled with wildflowers, pose for a picture with hard hats and trail tools.]

2-week expeditions - A 2-week expedition is made up of one 11-day hitch running Sunday to Wednesday. Expedition Members will spend most of their time outdoors, camping, working, and exploring all while working through our CORE curriculum.  Upon completion of your expedition, all participants receive a $100 service award. 

4-week expeditions - Looking for a more in-depth experience? Our 4-week expeditions might be for you! 4-week expeditions are two 11-day hitches with a brief 3-day return to home in between.  Participants experience the same types of projects as 2-week participants but are likely to have a greater variety of work.  Finally, these longer-term participants earn a service award of $270.

Technology-Free Environment: Our programs are intentionally technology-free to enhance crew connection. For safety, our leaders have GPS devices and their personal cell phones for emergencies.

Program Benefits - Here is what you can expect to gain!

  • 64 + volunteer hours 
  • Leadership and communication skills
  • Technical skills
  • Connections to each of the 4Ps (People, Power, Place, Pathwayssee our CORE curriculum page)
  • New relationships 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Fund

The Montana Conservation Corps is able to assist some participants with portions of the financial costs associated with serving with MCC. These funds are designed to offer financial assistance for youth to serve with MCC.

Anyone serving in an MCC expedition can apply. These funds are made available through a generous grant from the Kendeda Foundation as well as other donors. For more information, you can email Brad Koontz, brad@mtcorps.org.

Thank you so much to the Kendeda Fund for helping make my transition into Montana Conservation Corps significantly easier. The fund helped me with travel costs and essential gear. I'm very grateful to have gotten the opportunity to be a part of a community that truly cares and invests in the inclusion of members from diverse backgrounds. It encourages me to invite everyone into the world of outdoor recreation and pass on knowledge on environmental conservation.” ~ Priscilla Sallas

Watch to Learn More!

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