Vermont Youth Conservation Corps

Mission: To take action and build community by working and learning together with the land.

ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is a nonprofit science and nature center located in Burlington, Vermont, on the shores of Lake Champlain. The center focuses on educating the public about the ecological and environmental importance of the lake and its surrounding region. Through interactive exhibits, hands-on learning, and live animal displays, ECHO aims to inspire a sense of stewardship and appreciation for the natural world. The center is also deeply committed to promoting sustainability, conservation, and environmental awareness. ECHO serves as a valuable resource for both residents and visitors, offering opportunities to learn about local wildlife, water systems, and climate change while enjoying the beauty and history of Lake Champlain.

VYCC Corps Members ages 16-24 work, live, and study together in small groups, completing high priority conservation and park management projects, such as building and maintaining trails, under the guidance of highly-trained adult leaders. Meanwhile, The Food and Farm Program at the VYCC empowers youth to unite with their community to address the complex issues of hunger, nutrition, food access, sustainable agriculture, and responsible land use. This is done through work on the Health Care Share, a farm-to-hospital public health program that connects Vermont families with fresh, healthy food and nutrition education at their doctor’s office for no cost to the Member Families.