Propose a summer conservation project for student workers

The Yukon Youth Conservation Corps (Y2C2) is a summer employment and training program for Yukon students aged 16 and up. Students work in small groups on environment- and conservation-related projects.

If you have an eligible project, you can submit a project proposal to get help from a Y2C2 crew.

Can I apply?

You can submit projects if you are a Yukon:

• individual;
• municipality;
• local government;
• non-profit organization;
• First Nation or
• Government of Yukon department.

Private (for-profit) interests are not eligible unless the project has significant community benefits and support. If you think your project fits that criteria, email Lauren.Wonfor@yukon.ca or call: 867-667-3041, toll free in the Yukon: 1-800-661-0408, ext. 3041.

Project criteria

Eligible projects:

• Are conservation- or environment-related.
• Are carried out in the Yukon.
• Are 1 to 2 weeks long in July or August (longer projects or earlier time frames may be possible).
• Give students the opportunity to gain career-related knowledge and skills.
• Have long-lasting benefits.
• Have clear goals and objectives.
• Are safety conscious.
• Have enthusiastic sponsors who are involved with the students.

Examples of eligible Y2C2 projects

• Habitat enhancement
• Recycling
• Environmental education or awareness campaigns
• Clean-ups
• Community surveys
• Heritage restoration
• Outdoor recreation
• Research

View previous Y2C2 projects in the past project listing. 

We provide supervised, equipped crews of 1 to 5 students to work on summer conservation projects in your community. We also cover most of the cost of hiring a crew, including basic training, transportation and camping accommodation if required.

If your project is accepted, you will:

• consult and supervise during the planning and implementation phases;
• fund extra project costs for things like construction materials, special tools, special training and transportation; and
• complete an evaluation after the project to help us improve the Y2C2 program.

1. Phone 867-667-3041 or toll free in the Yukon 1-800-661-0408, ext. 3041 to discuss your project. We will give you an idea whether your project has a chance of being accepted.
2. Plan your project. We'll help you. Consider as many aspects of the project as you can. Examples include: safety, location, transportation, special tools, etc. The educational component of the project is very important.
3. Be ready to participate in the project. Your direct contact with the student workers helps them understand the project goals. It ensures the job is done the way you would like. The students feel appreciated, and know they are making a valuable contribution.

The deadline for your project submissions is the end of April.

1. Complete the project proposal form. 
2. Submit your project proposal form.
   Email: Lauren.Wonfor@yukon.ca
   Mail:
   Government of Yukon
   Habitat Programs (V-5R)
   Youth programs coordinator
   Box 2703
   Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6.
3. We will let you know about the status of your proposal by early June.

A government committee reviews these proposals. They select projects based on:

• how well they meet the project criteria;
• the benefit to the Yukon environment and people;
• the benefit to the student workers (what will they learn?); and
• how well-planned and safe the project appears.