Next Generation Advisory Council Call for Participants

Applications are due by January 14, 2025.

The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) believes that engaging the next generation is critical to ensuring the protection of our national parks. The council brings together up to 16 individuals, ages 21-32, to explore effective methods of engaging younger audiences in national park advocacy and protection. NPCA understands that to continue expanding the base of park advocates, we need diverse perspectives to ensure that national parks remain relevant and protected for current and future generations.

What We’re Looking For

If you’re an individual between the ages of 21 and 32 who is passionate about national parks, conservation, advocacy or reflecting the voice of your generation, we encourage you to apply to be part of our Next Generation Advisory Council. Together, the members of the council: 1) advise the organization as it relates to NPCA’s strategic plan and engagement efforts, 2) work with NPCA staff to develop content for engaging new audiences, and 3) explore opportunities to engage a broader audience in national park advocacy with an emphasis on inclusion and equity.

What You’ll Get Out of Participating

As a member of the council, you will be part of a membership organization that has been successfully advocating for national parks since 1919. You will have the chance to interact with and learn from NPCA’s talented staff, as well as members of our other councils such as Regional Councils. You will be able to visit national park sites during in person gatherings, build community with other national park advocates, and deepen your current perspectives surrounding public lands. Most importantly, you will have the opportunity to help our national parks by building their base of support for the future.

Requirements

To fulfill the mission of the council and ensure robust participation, all prospective council members must be:

• Age 21 to 32;
• Able to serve on the council for at least a two-year term
• Able to attend* two (2) national meetings per year in-person, 3 nights, 4 days each

• Able to participate in one-hour monthly zoom of the full council.
• Additional check ins based on topic of interest
• Read/Listen to materials for Park Trips. (primarily on audiobooks for an average of 10hours)
• Interested in participating* in up to two (2) NPCA Regional Council meetings per year, based on your geographic location (optional).

*Travel expenses to national and regional meetings will be covered by NPCA.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

• This is not a paid position, though NPCA will cover expenses related to participating.
• The two in-person meetings will be 4 days in length and will likely require you to miss work or school. Exact dates are coordinated with council members and advanced notice is provided once dates are determined.
• NPCA is an advocacy organization, and you will be asked to visit Capitol Hill with us to advocate for national parks.

How to Apply

All prospective council members must fill out the online application. Applications open November 14th. As part of the online application, prospective council members will be asked to submit a resume.

Feel free to follow NPCA on LinkedIn where we will post when the application is live.

The deadline to apply is January 14, 2025.

If you have any questions, please contact Laura Navar at lnavar@npca.org

Next Generation Advisory Council Apply Online ›