The Youth Climate Action Program is a 12-week paid opportunity for high school students participating in The Morton Arboretum’s Youth Volunteer Program to engage with climate change on a deeper level by leading their own local climate action project rooted in collaborative, nature-based solutions.

Through guided learning, peer collaboration, and mentorship from Arboretum staff, participants in the Youth Climate Action Program will develop and launch their own climate action project over a 12-week period. The program culminates in a public showcase where participants share their work and inspire others to act.

The Youth Climate Action Program is designed to foster youth leadership, build self-efficacy, and strengthen understanding of climate change as a local and global issue. Participants will leave with a deeper awareness of the collective actions they can take—and inspire others to take—through community-based solutions and science communication.

As a member of the national Climate Toolkit Youth Network, The Morton Arboretum connects its youth leaders with a broader community of peers and institutions committed to climate education.

How to Get Involved

The Arboretum aims to grow the Youth Climate Action Program in future years and expand participation. To support the program or be notified of opportunities to participate in the program, email youthvolunteers@mortonarb.org.

A photo gallery and summary of the 2025 projects will be added following the culminating event on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

About the Youth Volunteer Program

The Youth Volunteer Program at The Morton Arboretum offers middle and high school students opportunities to connect with nature, gain service hours, and explore STEM careers through hands-on experiences. Participants serve in different positions, or branches of service, such as working with families in the Children’s Garden, gardening, or engaging in citizen science projects.