The Cleveland Metroparks Youth Outdoors Fellowship Program provides motivated high school students with a unique opportunity to blend outdoor exploration with professional growth and meaningful work opportunities. Designed for individuals ages 14 to 18 who are interested in discovering career pathways in parks and recreation, this program gives youth a powerful advantage—providing the skills, support, and experience needed to stand out and succeed in today’s competitive job market. For teens facing tough challenges in finding work, the Youth Outdoors Fellowship is more than just a program—it’s an opportunity that can open doors and set you up for lifelong success.
Ready to unlock new opportunities, make friends, and prepare for your next steps after high school? Join the Cleveland Metroparks Youth Outdoors Fellowship Program and start building your future today!
Program Details
We are now accepting applications for the 2026 Winter – Spring Cohort which will run January – May.
In-person meetings will be held at Garfield Reservation in Cleveland Metroparks one Saturday a month from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bi-weekly meetings will be held virtually on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7 p.m.
- Resume and Cover Letter Workshops: Learn how to craft a standout resume and cover letter that will get you noticed.
- Goal Setting: Set personal and professional goals—and get support to achieve them.
- Teamwork: Work side-by-side with other teens, build leadership skills, and tackle challenges together.
- Career Exploration: Meet guest speakers, discover new career paths, and get insider tips from industry pros.
- Mock Interviews & Personal Branding: Practice interviewing and learn how to present your best self.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and more—all while building skills for your future.
Saturday outings are provided at no cost to the student. (Transportation is also provided from Garfield Reservation.) Lunch is provided at each in-person meeting and outing. Participants that meet attendance expectations will be provided the opportunity to interview for summer employment with Cleveland Metroparks. Chromebooks are available for temporary use to accommodate virtual requirements.
Outdoor activities can encompass a wide range of experiences that take place in natural settings, providing opportunities for participants to engage with the environment, develop new skills, and foster a sense of connection with the outdoors. Activities may include but are not limited to:
- Hiking and Nature Walks
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Rock Climbing
- Team-building Challenges
- Environmental Stewardship
- Outdoor Cooking
- Fishing
Eligibility Requirements
Youth Outdoors Fellowship applicants must:
- Must be between 14 and 18 years old and currently enrolled in high school.
- Be a resident of the City of Cleveland (or resident of inner ring suburbs).
- Submit all required documents.
How to Apply
For more information contact:
Youth Outdoors Fellowship Program
Cleveland Metroparks
11350 Broadway Ave
Garfield Heights, OH 44125
Phone: 216.206.1010
Email: [email protected]