Kupu Internships Open

Kupu News Release 

Kupu, Hawaii’s leading conservation and youth education nonprofit, is hosting the Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps Summer Program (HYCC-Summer), which offers an intensive hands-on experience into the world of conservation. The deadline is quickly approaching and Kupu is inviting applicants to apply on Molokai, Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii Island. Application deadline is Feb. 17. 

The program runs for seven weeks from June 5 to July 23. If selected, participants are partnered within a team of like-minded individuals and each week they will get to explore and serve within a different partner site, which holds new adventures, challenges, teachings and opportunities for personal growth. Participants will get to learn about a variety of ecosystems, natural resource management techniques, and cultural practices unique to Hawaii.  

“We’re looking for motivated individuals to join us as either Team Members or Team Leaders,” explained Kupu Recruiting Specialist, Anna Garcia. “Team members are typically between the ages of 17 to 22 and often complete the program between school semesters. The ideal applicant is someone with a positive attitude, curious about nature, interested in learning, and a desire to strengthen their community through service.”   

The Volunteer Service Award that members receive upon completion of the program has been raised to $1,000 this year. In addition to the monetary award, the program offers First Aid and CPR certification and a $1,374.60 AmeriCorps Education Award, along with the chance to gain valuable experiential environmental education and strengthen life skills relevant to any career.  

For Team Leaders, available to age 21 and older, the compensation has also been raised this year to a $15 per hour rate, plus overtime as applicable and fringe benefits. Team Leaders will have the chance to network with conservation professionals and potential employers. 

“I think each site did a very good job of educating us about the history of the place and making us feel included,” said Mikela Parris, a participant on Molokai. “I love hearing from our elders about their past experiences and how that shaped them into the person they are today. I learned how important stewardship is and how important it is to remove invasive species so that our native ecosystems can thrive. It is hard work, but it is important.” 

To provide the participants with a wide range of experiences, Kupu partners with nonprofit organizations and government agencies that mentor the teams and guide them through conservation projects. As a Kupu partner, the organization will receive extra support at an affordable rate, with the option to host teams for one to six weeks.  

Team members and leaders can apply online at kupuhawaii.tfaforms.net/267, with an application deadline of Feb. 17. Host sites can apply online at kupuhawaii.tfaforms.net/271, with an application deadline of Jan. 28. 

For more info, visit kupuhawaii.org/hycc-summer/, email hyccsummer@kupuhawaii.org or call 808-735-1221 x2001.