The nonprofit Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has received a $150,000 grant from the National Park Foundation and $25,000 from donor Helen Wright to support of the Guardians of the Trails program.
Now in its sixth year, the program will provide a group of local young adults with a transformative opportunity.
The Guardians of the Trails provides paid, hands-on experience and career mentorship to young people in the community who may not otherwise consider a career in conservation. The program offers life-changing career opportunities, breaks down barriers to park employment, and empowers participants to become conservation leaders in their community.
Guardians of the Trails will run for 50 weeks, and will hire a crew of six people ages 18 to 30, or veterans up to age 35, to work full-time throughout Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Participants will perform a wide range of essential work, including native forest rehabilitation, removing invasive species, collecting seeds of rare plants and performing trail brushing and maintenance. They also will assist with visitor services and data collection.
For many young people, the idea of a career in a national park feels out of reach. The Guardians of the Trails program provides a direct pathway to employment by equipping them with the practical skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed.
“This grant is about more than just conservation. It’s about investing in our youth and their potential,” Elizabeth Fien, CEO for FHVNP, said in a news release. “We are incredibly grateful to the National Park Foundation for their generous award and to our dedicated donor, Mrs. Helen Wright, for her significant contribution. Their support allows us to continue building a program that transforms lives while we protect and preserve this incredible landscape.”
Donations for the Guardians of the Trails program can be made directly online at the website: www.fhvnp.org.