The Greenwich Youth Conservation Program marked its 48th successful summer with “GYCP Day” July 14 at the Montgomery Pinetum and Greenwich Botanical Center.
The program gives 14–15-year-olds a summer job improving Greenwich’s green spaces.
More than 50 people came out on a steamy summer morning to support a crew of 28 teens who were planting trees in the Pinetum, including members of the Greenwich Board of Selectmen who took up shovels alongside the teens in a show of support. In total, the group planted 21 trees and shrubs in the Town nature preserve. July 14, 2026 Photo: Angie Hartofilis
A crew of 28 GYCP participants planted trees in the pinetum. The Greenwich Board of Selectmen were “honorary teens” for the day, working alongside them in a show of support for the teens’ efforts.
After the trees were planted, sponsors and supporters joined in a celebration of the GYCP’s many contributions to Greenwich’s parks and nature
preserves.
The GYCP is an “earn and learn” program that offers youths a first-job experience and practical skills training. This non-profit program is planned and administered by the Greenwich Departments of Human Services and Parks and Recreation. Each summer, participants complete a variety of conservation projects in Town parks and nature
preserves, such as planting trees and gardens, clearing invasive plants, and mulching trails.
Afternoons include skills training on topics including resume writing, budgeting and teen decision-making, as well as talks with local conservation experts. Each participant receives a stipend for their work, made possible by gifts from local families and sponsors.
The GYCP has gained popularity and expanded dramatically since it launched as a small pilot project in 1978. More than 250 teens applied this year, each hoping to secure one of the 112 available spaces. Participants come from all Greenwich neighborhoods and attend both public and independent schools. Over its 48-year history, the GYCP has given more than 3,900 teens a summer job opportunity.
“Teens who participate in the GYCP enjoy having a sense of purpose for the summer and take pride in improving their community,” said Program Administrator Christina Nappi.
“They learn job skills and teamwork while spending time in nature and making new friends. We all enjoy a more beautiful Greenwich because of their hard work.”