Bioneers

Bioneers is presented by Collective Heritage Institute, an organization dedicated to providing “practical and visionary solutions for restoring the earth” in areas including health, ecological restoration, business, food, politics, and technology.  Bioneers is recognized as the leading conference in the country for environmental innovators of all stripes.  The Youth program is strong and scholarships for youth are available to this otherwise pricey event.  The Bioneers events are held at the Marin Center in San Rafael in October.

The Public Interest Environmental Law Conference

Organized by the students in the environmental law program at the University of Oregon, this is one of the best conferences in the country for environmental activists (not just environmental lawyers).  With world-class speakers and a low price tag for students, it’s no wonder David Brower never missed it for 18 years in a row.  The conference is held in early March in Eugene, OR.

Hazel Wolf Environmental Film Festival

A top-notch festival of environmental films created by long-time Brower-friend John de Graaf in the scenic mountains of Central Washington.  The cost is $40 for youth, plus accommodations.  Scholarships may be available; the event is held annually in late March or early April in Seattle, Washington.

Youth for Environmental Sanity (YES!): Youth Leadership Jams

Weeklong gatherings of leaders 15-35 to foment collaboration and creativity. Amazing participants and youth facilitators.  Participants must apply; applications are considered until the event is full.

Change-It

Greenpeace and Seventh Generation have partnered to provide an all expenses paid weeklong skills training in Washington, DC each summer. 200 students receive free travel to D.C. for training on campaign strategy, message development, lobbying, recruitment, and event planning. Students travel offsite to participate in a campaign event and will emerge from the program with more skills and tools they need to become effective leaders in the environmental and social justice movements.

National Service-Learning Conference

The National Service-Learning Conference is the largest gathering of youths and practitioners involved in the service-learning movement, drawing nearly 3,000 attendees from across the United States and 19 other countries.  The conference connects participants with service-learning leaders through three days of plenary sessions, featured forums, and service projects.  It also provides access to ideas and networking opportunities with more than 200 workshops and countless opportunities for informal meetings.  This year’s conference will address issues with local and global implications, including social justice, academic achievement, and the environment.