“My own reconnection with the outside — coupled with playing and learning alongside the children — is what makes it so meaningful and worthwhile.”
Abbreail Navarro
CCC Solano Center
It’s right there in the California Conservation Corps mission, empower and develop young adults through hard work and education. As part of as an internship with NatureBridge, Corpsmembers assigned to the CCC Solano Center are getting a hands-on education in outdoor learning and sharing their knowledge with young campers.
“I grew up going to National Parks and State Parks. I feel like it helped a lot with my mental health and clarity,” said Corpsmember Mia Rangel. “If I can help small campers also foster that relationship with the environment, so they can have a healthier mental headspace, that would just mean the world to me. I think that’d be awesome.”
It’s a unique internship opportunity that combines conservation, education, and fun. Activities include coastal hikes, hands-on labs, and wildlife lectures from local organizations. The goal is to transform nature from a ‘green blur’ into something children can identify and engage with.
Connecting & Learning
“Some of my favorite parts of this internship is just making these connections with the campers.”
Mia Rangel
CCC Solano Center
“My own reconnection with the outside – coupled with playing and learning alongside the children – is what makes it so meaningful and worthwhile,” said Corpsmember Abbreail Navarro.
Abbriel joined the CCC already with experience working with children. She sought an opportunity to work outdoors and found it. The internship has been able to connect her two passions.
“I was coming to the CCC for a different experience,” she said. “I had never considered the possibility that the CCC could lead me back into working in education, which is something I’m also pursuing as a degree. I jumped on the internship opportunity because it really aligned with my goals.”
Whether its discovering new goals and opportunities, or solidifying long held plans and dreams, the California Conservation Corps connects young adults with outdoor opportunities. A year of paid training in service to the state can lead 18-25-year-old’s toward meaningful careers.
Amazing Views
The NatureBridge campus at the Golden Gate National Recreational Area in the Marin Headlands offers stunning views and incredible educational opportunities for area youth.
