Part of LEJ’s mission is to empower young people who envisioned a healthier future for their community. By tackling local environmental issues, LEJ enables local youth to enhance their well-being and in the process build a deeper connection to gardens, parks, and open spaces,

Eco- Apprentices support the nursery team in collection, processing and propagation of native plant species, work on restoration sites with an emphasis in plant establishment, invasive removal and site preparation, and assist in the implementation of LEJ’s volunteer programs and education experiences.

Hands on experience growing locally sourced native plants, restoring Candlestick Point Park, and participating in environmental justice advocacy provides Eco-Apprentices with the necessary green job and leadership skills they need to ensure future economic security. Our program is a safe and healing environment for young people to become confident in themselves, in their abilities and to see themselves as empowered contributors to a healthier community.

For more information about Eco-Apprentices, contact Russ Aguilar at russ.aguilar@lejyouth.org.

Below are stories and perspective from current and previous Eco-Apprentice participants.

Tony Marks-Block