Jim Himes Praises Greenwich Youth Conservation Program Teens during Visit

Teen participants in the Greenwich Youth Conservation Program had a special visitor this week as U.S. Congressman Jim Himes came out to support them, observe their work planting three trees and removing invasives from the garden at Pemberwick Park.

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The GYCP is a unique public-private summer work program for 14–15-year-old Greenwich residents administered by Greenwich’s Human Services Dept and Parks & Recreation.

Participants in the program come from all town neighborhoods and both public and private schools.

The teens plant trees, clear invasive growth, mulch walking paths, and complete other conservation projects.

The GYCP launched as a small pilot “earn and learn” program in 1978, with gifts from local residents and businesses allowing each teen to receive a stipend
for their work. This formula proved to be beneficial to both the teens and the community.

Today, a typical summer sees well over 200 teens apply for one of the GYCP’s 112 coveted spots. More than 3,700 teens have participated over 46 summers.

Gaining first-job experience and learning practical employment skills are big draws for the teens. They apply and interview for a position, wear uniforms, and work in teams with Parks Department supervisors. Skills training is an integral component of the GYCP.

Each day, visiting professionals provide training on topics ranging from conservation to writing an effective resume or managing personal finances. End-of-session surveys show that the teens experience accomplishment and a sense of purpose from their participation, in addition to making new friends and improving the Town’s environment.

Congressman Himes said of his visit, “I loved my summer jobs growing up, but I’m not sure any were quite as focused on my personal and professional development as those GYCP participants have here. Working together in nature, learning new skills, engaging in a public service, what could be better? I appreciated the thoughtful questions the teens posed and look forward to seeing how each of them continues to improve our community going forward.”

 

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