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Become a Generation Green Junior Ambassador!

This summer, twelve Detroit high school students will engage in hands-on opportunities to foster lasting change in neighborhood green spaces. These Junior Park Champions will make up the Gen:G student cohort. Supported by the Our Backyard Detroit Park Champions and their Assistant Champions, these Gen:G students are set to become the next generation of environmental stewards and peer leaders. This paid program encourages community building, increases intergenerational connections to nature, and provides workforce experience for our youngest leaders. 

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What?

Along with participation in community field trips, learning presentations, and workshops, Gen:G Junior Park Champion will be responsible for working with their Park Champion to plan and execute community events. Additionally, Junior Champions will complete learning deliverables, provide input through collaborative working sessions, and report on their experience, impact, learning, and contributions throughout the program.

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Gen:G Junior Champions will be introduced to educational and cultural spaces across the city during weekly programming. During these trips students will connect with a variety of organizations, learning to create a brighter future for themselves, Detroit, and the planet. 

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Who?

Applicants should be 14-18 years old. Additionally, applicants should live within roughly 3 miles of one of our seven target parks:

  • Patton

  • Sawyer

  • St. Hedwig

  • Zussman

  • Pingree

  • Maheras-Gentry

  • James T. Hope

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When?

Applications should be submitted by May 17th at 11:59pm for consideration. The program will run for nine weeks from June 13th, 2026 to August 15th, 2026. Students are asked to attend the following:

 

  • Every Wednesday from 9am-5pm during the program

  • Two half day sessions are mandatory: Saturday, June 13th and Saturday, July 11th from 10am-2pm

  • During the Our Backyard Detroit Year-End Celebration tentatively scheduled for August 15th

  • 2-3 Clean-up events at your local park as scheduled by your mentor Park Champion

  • Additional work time supporting OBD Champion events

Why?

  • Gen:G participants will receive hands-on environmental education, workforce development, college readiness, and leadership training. We have intentionally crafted the program so that students have opportunities for mentorship, shared learning, and community connection and engagement alongside current community leaders. 

  • Over the course of the summer, they will learn about environmental justice and sustainability, practice civic engagement, and prepare for green degrees and jobs. This experience will look great on a resume and allow students to make connections that can develop into possible references for college and job applications.

  • Junior Champions will receive a $1,000 stipend for completing the program, receiving $500 midway through the summer and $500 at the completion of the program.

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FAQ's

  • I’ll be on vacation for 4 of the 9 weeks, can I still participate?

    • 80% participation/attendance is required for full compensation. We understand that summers can be busy, but we want to provide the best experience for participants, which relies on deep engagement throughout the 9 weeks. We ask that you share any possible conflicts with us in the application.

  • Do I need to bring my own lunch?

    • Lunch and snacks will be provided on days of programming. All dietary restrictions will be acknowledged.

  • How will I get to the field trip locations?

    • Transportation to field trip locations will be provided by GLS. Students and/or their guardians are responsible for transportation to and from the central location (GLS Office 1331 Holden St, Detroit, MI 48202) at the beginning and end of the day.

  • What if I live outside of the City of Detroit?

    • This program works in parks within the city and focuses on building local community connections. If you don’t live within 3 miles of one of the parks but have a special connection to one in another way, please note that in your application.

  • How can I apply?

    • Fill out our online application by May 17, 2026 at 11:59pm! If you have any issues or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. 

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