Portland Youth Corps: Summer 2025 in Review

This summer, the Portland Youth Corps (PYC) once again proved how powerful hands-on conservation work can be, not just for the parks, but for the young people who care for them.

The program welcomed two crews of high school students who dedicated several weeks to improving trails, studying local ecosystems, and building bridges, literally and figuratively, throughout Portland’s green spaces. From coastal islands to city parks, these young stewards brought energy, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose to every challenge.

True to its mission, the Portland Youth Corps promotes personal and professional growth through community service, environmental stewardship, and conservation projects in Portland’s public parks. The summer program exemplified this mission in every way.

The season began on Hurricane Island, where students immersed themselves in marine science and sustainability. The island setting offered more than just scenic beauty, it created an environment where learning was active, and where teamwork and reflection took center stage.

“My favorite [outside of organization to work with] part was Hurricane Island because it provided me with a one-of-a-kind immersive experience into nature and the ocean.” - PYC Crew Member

After returning to the city, crews got to work on trail improvements at North Deering Park. Together, they built nearly a mile of new trail and constructed two bridges to address safety and accessibility challenges in the park. The impact of their work was immediate and long-lasting, and for many participants, the experience was deeply empowering.

“I enjoyed building the bridge, despite the trial and error, since I got to help problem-solve and learn how to construct things.” - PYC Crew Member

“[they] felt like I could make a real, visible difference to [their] community that will continue to help others for a long time.” - PYC Crew Member

Throughout the summer, PYC crews also engaged with local environmental and recreation partners including Portland Paddle, Sail Maine, Maine Audubon, GMRI, Cultivating Communities, Gear Hub, and UNE’s Chestnut Farm. These partnerships offered students the chance to try new skills, meet professionals in environmental fields, and explore potential career paths.

To celebrate their hard work and wrap up the season, each crew took part in a whitewater rafting trip down the Kennebec River with Adventure Bound. It was a joyful and memorable conclusion to a summer filled with growth.

“The trip was super fun, and I felt more connected to my peers after it.” -  PYC Crew Member

At the Portland Parks Conservancy, we’re proud to support programs like Portland Youth Corps that create opportunities for youth to grow, give back, and find their place in the natural world. PYC’s work is making a real difference, not just in our parks, but in the lives of future leaders who are learning what it means to serve their community.

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