This is the third year in which Coca-Cola has supported YCP through its competitive grant program that focuses on promoting active, healthy living and programs that connect youth to the outdoors.
"Environmental stewardship, supporting healthy lifestyles, and education are three of our Foundation priorities," said Lori Billingsley, vice president of community relations at Coca-Cola North America Group. "The Youth Conservation Program combines leadership experiences in conservation and active living and provides a unique opportunity for summer employment in our treasured Grand Teton National Park."
YCP has employed nearly 150 students as trail crew members in Grand Teton since the program's founding in 2006. In completing restoration projects on heavily used park trails and historic sites, program participants learn valuable job skills while gaining unforgettable hands-on experiences in Grand Teton National Park and developing a long-term conservation ethic.
"Coca-Cola has a great history of funding community outdoor programs and projects in national parks, and the company's continued support for YCP has helped solidify the program as a popular outdoor institution that attracts applicants from across the country each year," says Leslie Mattson, president of Grand Teton National Park Foundation.
Summer 2013's YCP group consisted of 24 teen crew members led by park trail staff. The group also interacted with a variety of park leaders from all major divisions. The crew began work in Grand Teton in mid-June and wrapped up a variety of projects related to trail and historic site renewal at the end of August. Watch a video profile of this year's program successes here:
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