Virginia Zoo Conservation Youth Team

Applications are now open for the Conservation Youth Team at the Virginia Zoo, open to rising/enrolled high school students ages 13 – 17. There are opportunities for summer, fall and spring sessions! New participants must complete the summer session AND either fall or spring session.

Description: The Virginia Zoo’s Conservation Youth Team (CYT) program is a high school volunteer and youth development program that was created for teens who want to learn more about animals and conservation, earn community service hours, and spend their time at the Virginia Zoo!

The summer kicks off with an exciting, jam-packed training that focuses on learning the zoo, conservation basics, ecology, and education techniques. Throughout the year, CYT participants educate zoo guests about our animals, support our Safari Camp programs, visit local organizations and participate in service projects benefiting the community, and become part of the Virginia Zoo family! As a member of the Conservation Youth Team, teens will develop important job and life skills, build self-confidence, earn community service hours, and learn about what they can do to help our environment!

There are two focused “tracks” to this opportunity, a “Camp Track” and a “Guide Track”. Applications and recommendations are due March 8, 2024. 

On-site info sessions: December 16 & January 10.
Offsite info session: February 7 (location TBD). 

For more information about the program, upcoming info sessions, and requirements of the Conservation Youth Team at the Virginia Zoo CLICK HERE.