Green Jobs Workforce Development Program

The Forest Park Conservancy’s vision is that Forest Park will be better protected if our organizational culture including leadership, staff, and volunteers come from all backgrounds. Click here to read more about our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Traditionally, the mainstream environmental workforce has been comprised of white, highly resourced folks. Although there are existing training programs that seek to introduce a diversity of young people to the industry, many currently do not provide enough experience to improve the chances of long-term employment for participants.

These challenges have become even more accentuated in recent years due to COVID-19. The post-pandemic economy presents an opportunity to make investments in reorienting the green jobs sector and directing it toward a more equitable environment for historically marginalized communities to both support and benefit from.

The Green Jobs Workforce Program provides BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) youth and young adults with relevant hands-on professional experience and support to pursue a career in the conservation and natural resources field.

Forest Park Conservancy has partnered with The Blueprint Foundation, Wisdom of the Elders, Ecotrust, Columbia Land Trust, and West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District in hosting interns for a 12-month period, providing continuous support and mentorship.

The Internship allows participants to gain hands-on experience in fieldwork and shadow experienced professionals while earning a living wage and developing a professional network.

Participants also receive multiple training opportunities to obtain technical and project-based skills in topics applicable for a successful career in the environmental sector and personal and professional development. FPC and our partners are committed to supporting the interns during the program and after its completion, including flexibility in work schedule, transportation assistance, and connection to destination employers.

Who can participate?

The program is available for BIPOC applicants aged 18-26 years old.

Who do I reach out to with questions?

For questions regarding the Green Jobs Workforce Program, please email us at info@forestparkconservancy.org.

How can I support this program?

This program is generously funded by the Rose E. Tucker Charitable Trust, The Bullitt Foundation, the Meyer Memorial Trust, Metro, The Collins Foundation, the Land Trust Alliance, and Hillman Foundation, and with the support of our partners West Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District, Columbia Land Trust, and donors like you! Click here to donate to support this program.