Sonoma Ecology Center is seeking applicants for EnviroLeaders, a paid work experience program for Sonoma Valley youth. Applications are open until August 23. Photo by Austin Noble.
This article was written by Sonoma Index-Tribune Staff Writer Isabel Beer and originally published in the Sonoma Index-Tribune on August 8, 2025. Find the original article here.
Applications are now open for the fall 2025 session of Sonoma Ecology Center’s EnviroLeaders program, a paid job training opportunity for local teens interested in environmental work, sustainable agriculture and community action. Open to youth ages 14 to 18, the program runs from September 3 through November 8 and includes weekly workdays on Wednesdays from 3:00-6:00 pm and Saturdays from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at Sonoma Garden Park. Applications are due by Friday, August 23 and hired EnviroLeaders are paid an hourly wage for their work.
Since its launch in 2008, EnviroLeaders has enrolled more than 320 Sonoma Valley teens in hands-on conservation and restoration projects. Participants gain workforce skills while working alongside environmental professionals in areas such as native plant cultivation, composting, habitat restoration and public engagement.
“This program is very much like workforce training,” said Program Coordinator Rebecca Kelly, who also serves as Assistant Garden Manager at Sonoma Garden Park. “We show up on time, follow an attendance policy, act professionally – but we’re also outside, sweating, and doing physical labor.”
Each cohort member works across various areas of the garden park, learning directly from various specialists in pollination, compost, infrastructure and native plant propagation. Kelly said participants are encouraged to explore multiple disciplines to find their place within the garden community.
Past participants say the program not only offers practical skills, but a strong sense of connection. “I’ve made many friends here, and everyone is incredibly kind and welcoming,” said Kendall Clemmons, who completed the program in spring 2025. “Every day I’ve been here, I’ve learned something new, and I’ve had a great time doing it.” Fellow former EnviroLeader José Pérez described his experience as “nothing short of amazing.”
No prior experience is required to apply. Organizers say the ideal applicants bring curiosity, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
