Elevation

Join a transformative program designed for high school students passionate about environmental justice and conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conservation Treks participants at Trinity River 91�� Center. Photo: Luke Franke/91��

Registration for Elevation 2026 is now open!

Join us at Seward Park 91�� Center for Elevation—a transformative program designed for high school students passionate about environmental justice and conservation.

Elevation is more than just a program; it’s a movement. Here, your ideas are celebrated, your voice is heard, and you can truly be yourself. Connect with peers who share your passion, and together, let’s help our community thrive. This is your chance to make a significant impact on conservation and advocate for climate change action and sustainability.

Why Elevation?

The need for conservation action has never been more critical. Historically, youth have been at the forefront of progress, driving change with their vision for a more equitable and just world. Now, it’s your turn to take up the mantle. Through Elevation, you’ll have the opportunity to:

Develop Your Ideas: With the support of the Seward Park 91�� Center, you’ll have the framework to turn your ideas into actionable plans.
Build Your Skills: Learn to be a team player, community organizer, and conservation leader.
Meet Role Models: Connect with young professionals doing remarkable work in conservation. These “Luminaries” come from diverse backgrounds and will inspire you with their journeys.

Our program slots are full, but please .

Cohort Opportunities

Elevation offers three distinct cohort opportunities, allowing you to focus on areas that resonate most with your interests and strengths:

Conservation and research: As a team, you will participate in reforestation and restoration events through the Green Seattle Partnership. Together, we’ll develop an experiment of your choosing, research objective, or conservation project, and conduct fieldwork to test our hypothesis.
Journalism and social media management: In this cohort, you will be the reporters of the program. You’ll manage the program’s blog, journal about our efforts, create your own think pieces, and enact social media campaigns. You will lead our policy and outreach campaigns, photography, and video editing efforts. Essentially, you’re the program’s PR manager.
Policy, community outreach, and action: In this cohort, you will develop a grassroots campaign that actively engages our local community. We will present our climate action and conservation lobbying efforts, petitions, and advocacy initiatives to the State Legislature, meeting with our representatives to promote environmental justice, conservation, and climate change action.

Representation Matters

We understand that seeing yourself in a role model can make all the difference. That’s why Elevation includes voices from ethnically and culturally diverse backgrounds, as well as LGBTQIA+ identities. These luminaries will welcome you to their career sites and engage in group conversations, helping you see yourself in conservation roles and inspiring you to pursue your goals.

Your Voice, Your Impact

In Elevation, you are empowered to determine what’s most important to you, which skills you want to develop, and what environmental actions resonate with your values. We believe you already have everything you need to make a difference, and we recognize your talent and capacity to take action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Elevation Teen Program is about showing up for your local community, building partnerships with other students, building your own legacy in conservation and finding your own voice in the fight for climate and environmental justice.

Signing up for the Elevation program is easy! Here’s how you can do it:

Please sign up here:

Visit the Seward Park 91�� Center Website: Head over to their official website and look for the Elevation program page.
Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the online application form with your details. Make sure to provide accurate information about your interests and background. Write a personal statement telling us why you’d like to join our program.
Wait for Confirmation: After submitting your application, you’ll receive a confirmation email with further instructions and a liability release. Please be sure to follow instructions and send us back your release.

If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, feel free to contact the Youth Programs Manager at gabriela.rivarde@audubon.org. We’ll be happy to help you out!

We meet Saturdays 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM twice each month. We will meet for a total of 12 Saturdays. Program participants will enjoy a light breakfast and lunch each session.

You’ll earn service-learning credits, meet other students, participate in exciting site visits, meet brilliant, young conservation professionals, enjoy good food and beautiful nature walks, etc.!

We meet Saturdays 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM twice each month. We will meet for a total of 12 Saturdays.

Nothing! This program is absolutely free!

The Elevation program is designed to be accessible to all students, so there is no participation fee. However, if there are any specific barriers associated with participating, such as transportation, please let us know so that we can provide support to ensure that all students can participate fully.

If you have any concerns about costs or need more details, please reach out to the Youth Programs Manager at gabriela.rivarde@audubon.org. We are committed to making Elevation inclusive and supportive for everyone.

Bring yourself and dress for the weather. We’ll provide food and supplies

All high school students are welcome to join!

Age Group: High school students typically aged 14-18.
Location: Program participants must be able to attend sessions at Seward Park 91�� Center in Seattle, WA.
Interest in Environmental Issues: A passion for environmental justice, conservation, and sustainability.
Commitment: Willingness to participate actively in the program, including attending at least 8 of the 12 scheduled sessions (we meet twice per month on Saturdays) and engaging in group activities.
Diverse Backgrounds: Open to students from all ethnic, cultural, and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds.

If you meet these criteria and are excited about making a difference, we would love to have you join us!

Age Group: High school students typically aged 14-18.
Location: Program participants must be able to attend sessions at Seward Park 91�� Center in Seattle, WA.
Interest in Environmental Issues: A passion for environmental justice, conservation, and sustainability.
Commitment: Willingness to participate actively in the program, including attending at least 8 of the 12 scheduled sessions (we meet twice per month on Saturdays) and engaging in group activities.
Diverse Backgrounds: Open to students from all ethnic, cultural, and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds.

If you meet these criteria and are excited about making a difference, we would love to have you join us!

Are you ready to elevate your impact?

The Elevation program covers a wide range of exciting and impactful topics designed to empower you as a conservation leader. Here are some of the key areas you’ll explore:

Environmental Justice: Understanding the intersection of social justice and environmental issues, and how to advocate for equitable solutions.
Climate Change Action: Learning about the science of climate change, its impacts, and strategies for mitigation and adaptation.
Sustainability Practices: Exploring sustainable living practices and how to implement them in your community.
Conservation Techniques: Hands-on activities focused on protecting local ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources.
Community Organizing: Developing skills to mobilize and engage your community in environmental initiatives.
Legislation and Policy: Gaining insights into environmental laws and policies, and how to influence decision-makers.
Educational Outreach: Creating and delivering educational programs to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Career Exploration: Meeting conservation professionals and exploring various career paths in the environmental field.
Personal Development: Building leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that are essential for any conservation leader.

Each session is designed to be interactive and engaging, with opportunities for you to apply what you learn in real-world contexts. You’ll also have the chance to work on projects that reflect your personal interests and values.

At each session we’ll have great food and lots of fun. Some sessions will take place at exciting sites where our Luminaries work. Who are the Luminaries you say? Glad you asked! Keep reading to find out!

Are there any specific topics you’re particularly excited about? Let us know! This is your program and what matters to you matters to us!

We will meet at Seward Park 91�� Center located at

5902 Lake Washington Blvd S
Seattle, WA 98118

During our excursion days we will meet at a different location for an amazing outing, but we will plan that in advance, and we’ll let you know.

Yes! We recommend that you come prepared for the weather, but we will still meet unless there is a severe storm warning or any other official warnings.

We still meet in the weather. In the event of adverse weather or any other advisories, we will let you know in advance if we need to reschedule or cancel.

For students to remain in the program they’ll have to commit and attend to 8 of the 12 Saturday meetings.

We welcome and encourage all high school students to join our program.

We welcome and encourage every and all high school students to join our program. Our program is open for every child regardless of race, color, gender expression, sexual preference, disability, neurodiversity, religion, national origin, language or immigration status.

Elevation is designed to be accessible to all students, so there is no participation fee. However, if there are any specific barriers associated with participating, such as transportation, please let us know so that we can provide support to ensure that all students can participate fully.

If you have any concerns about costs or need more details, please reach out to the Youth Programs Manager at gabriela.rivarde@audubon.org. We are committed to making the program inclusive and supportive for everyone.

The Luminaries are a cornerstone of the Elevation program, designed to inspire and guide you on your conservation journey. Here’s what makes them special:

Who Are the Luminaries?

Luminaries are young conservation professionals who have made significant strides in their fields. They come from diverse ethnic, cultural, and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds, ensuring that you see representation and can relate to their experiences. These individuals are not only experts in their areas but also passionate about mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders.

What Do They Do?

Career Site Visits: Luminaries invite you to their workplaces, giving you a firsthand look at what a career in conservation entails. These visits are an excellent opportunity to see the day-to-day operations and challenges of conservation work.
Group Conversations: Engage in meaningful discussions with Luminaries about their journeys, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the successes they’ve achieved. These conversations are designed to be interactive, allowing you to ask questions and gain valuable insights.
Mentorship: Luminaries offer guidance and support as you navigate your own path in environmental justice and conservation.

Why Are They Important?

Representation: Seeing someone who looks like you or shares similar experiences can be incredibly empowering. Luminaries help you visualize yourself in conservation roles, breaking down barriers and inspiring confidence.
Inspiration: Their stories of perseverance and success motivate you to pursue your goals with determination and passion.
Networking: Building connections with professionals in the field can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and collaborations.

Examples of Luminary Activities

Workshops: Participate in workshops led by Luminaries on topics like sustainable practices, how to carry out a science experiment of your choosing, community organizing, and environmental policy.
Field Trips: Join Luminaries on field trips to conservation sites, where you can learn about ongoing projects and contribute to hands-on activities.
Panel Discussions: Attend panel discussions where Luminaries share their experiences and answer your questions about the conservation field.

The Luminaries are here to help you see the possibilities within the conservation field and to support you as you work towards making a positive impact on the environment.

Are you excited to meet the Luminaries and learn from their experiences?

We like to think in terms of pledging to put forth our best selves instead of rules and regulations. Through the program we will build our community focused on the Indigenous concept of deliberative democracy, so it is of outmost importance that this program remains a safe space of freedom of being, thought and expression. Read our pledge.

You’ll gain a multitude of valuable experiences and skills from Elevation. Here are some things we’re excited about:

Personal Growth and Development

Leadership Skills: Learn to lead projects, organize community events, and inspire others.
Confidence: Gain confidence in your abilities to make a difference and advocate for important causes.
Communication: Improve your public speaking, writing, and interpersonal communication skills.

Environmental Knowledge and Skills

Conservation Techniques: Hands-on experience with conservation practices and techniques.
Environmental Science: Deepen your understanding of environmental issues, climate change, and sustainability.
Advocacy: Learn how to effectively advocate for environmental justice and influence policy.

Community and Networking

Peer Connections: Build lasting friendships with like-minded peers who share your passion for the environment.
Professional Mentorship: Connect with Luminaries and other conservation professionals who can guide and support your journey.
Community Engagement: Engage with your local community and make a tangible impact through conservation projects.

Career Exploration

Exposure to Careers: Explore various career paths in the environmental field and gain insights from professionals.
Internship Opportunities: Potential to secure internships or volunteer positions that can further your experience and career prospects.
Resume Building: Enhance your resume with valuable experiences and skills that are attractive to colleges and employers.

Empowerment and Representation

Representation: See yourself represented in the field through diverse role models, which can inspire and empower you.
Voice and Agency: Feel empowered to voice your ideas and take action on issues that matter to you.

Fun and Fulfillment

Enjoyable Activities: Participate in engaging and fun activities that make learning about conservation enjoyable.
Sense of Accomplishment: Experience the fulfillment of contributing to meaningful projects and see the positive impact of your efforts.

Overall, Elevation provides a comprehensive and enriching experience that will equip you with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to become an effective conservation leader and advocate for environmental justice.

Please reach out to Gabriela Rivarde, the Youth Programs Manager at gabriela.rivarde@audubon.org. She’ll be happy to answer any other questions you may have.

Pledge

Have fun! We want you to enjoy your time with us and your time in nature. Help us make this an amazing experience.
Stay with the group. Listen carefully when the group leaders give instructions about sticking with the group or sticking with an assigned partner.
Respect for each other. Our goal is to offer a safe space for everyone participating. We pledge to put forth our best selves when we show up for the program.
Respect nature. During our program, we might be in contact with animals or plants. For your own safety, be mindful of potential dangers, and don't assume you can touch everything. Always ask first.
Respect the rights of other park visitors and animals that live in the park to a pleasant and peaceful environment. Excessive noise or throwing things is extremely stressful to the animals that call the park home.
Dress for the weather. It can always rain in Seattle. Come prepared for rain and cold weather. Try to dress in layers so you can add and subtract, as necessary. Don’t forget your rain jacket and shoes appropriate for the weather.
Protect the forest. Please place trash where it belongs, in either trash receptacles or recycling. Trash and recycling receptacles are available throughout the park.
Connect to nature. Let’s be present for each other during our program and limit the use of smartphones, tablets, and electronic devices as much as possible. There will be specific times when we will need electronic devices for the program.

Join Us

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something bigger than yourself. Elevation is where you can find your voice, build your skills, and make a lasting impact on your community and the world.

We meet two Saturdays each month, offering you the chance to earn service-learning credits while actively participating in impactful environmental justice campaigns and meaningful conservation efforts within your local community. Together, we’ll explore amazing locations and connect with young conservation professionals who represent a rich tapestry of ethnic and cultural diversity, including LGBTQIA+ identities. Throughout the program, you’ll develop invaluable leadership skills that will guide you on your chosen career path, all while contributing to a more equitable world—one that prioritizes justice, community, and environmental stewardship. At the end of the program, we’ll celebrate our achievements with a summit!

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