Youth Programs

 
 

Summer Youth Empowerment Program (SYEP)

The Summer Youth Empowerment Program (SYEP) is a career exposure & development opportunity for Philadelphia residents aged 14-24. Over 6 weeks, youth will:

  • Learn new skills through workshops, projects, & trips

  • Explore the diversity of nature-based work happening in the Philadelphia region

  • Gain real, paid work experiences to build your resume

We would love to interview you if you love the outdoors and bring passion, independence, creativity, & integrity. Camp dates are annually end of June thru beginning of August, please reach out to youth@fdrpark.org for more information.

School Groups & Field Trips

Our hands-on outdoor programs give your students an experience that strengthens comprehension and connection; not only to curriculum lessons, but also to their local ecosystem. Trips are sliding-scale, and often free, for schools & community groups, and open to for Pre K-12 and mixed-age groups. We offer a seasonal variety of programs to meet your group's needs and interests, such as:

  • Soil Science (April-Nov): fun & dirty activities exploring soil creatures, layers, and the processes that shape them.

  • Incredible Invertebrates (April-Nov): exploring real (both live & preserved) minibeasts found in the park.

  • Meet our Trees (year-round): Discover the importance of our tallest & leafiest community members with tree identification, parts of a tree, and more!  

  • Meet our Birds (year-round): get to know all about our many feathered friends in an iconic Philly birding site, featuring rare tidal wetlands.

Don’t see a topic of your interest? We are always developing new programs and looking for feedback and opportunities; reach out to youth@fdrpark.org to start the conversation!

Youth Stewardship opportunities

“Leaf & Learn” Toddler Program (Ages 2-5): A monthly (April- October) volunteer program designed to connect young children with nature. Interactive story time about the environment and hands-on task like planting seeds or picking up litter. By combining play, learning, and action, kids get a head start in understanding the importance of caring for their surroundings. It’s a great way for toddlers to make a positive impact on their park while building a love for nature.

To sign up for this program, sign up as a general volunteer and links will be provided in the newsletter

 

Learn more about additional public programs here