Calling all passionate and driven high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors students: Are you ready to embark on a life-changing journey, develop real-world skills, and make a difference in your community?

Planting Fields Foundation’s Youth Leaders program offers an exclusive, prestigious opportunity for five exceptional students to gain hands-on experience in historic preservation, visitor engagement, education and sustainability.

This is NOT your average internship. It’s an elite program that will immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of Planting Fields, where you’ll have the chance to work alongside top experts in history, sustainability, and preservation. Together with the Planting Fields Foundation, you’ll be at the heart of preserving a historic gem while gaining invaluable insights into career fields that could shape your future.

What Sets This Volunteer Program Apart? Youth Leaders Will…
Have Unique Hands-On Experiences: Help preserve and protect the incredible history of Planting Fields, from restoring historic gardens to developing educational programs for visitors. This is your chance to contribute meaningfully to a national treasure!
Learn Real-World Skills: Work side-by-side with renowned professionals in historical preservation, horticulture, and environmental sustainability. Learn new skills that will set you apart in the college admissions process and give you a leg-up in future careers.
Receive Recognition: Complete 100 hours of service at Planting Fields, and earn a volunteer service award – an impressive addition to your resume or college applications!
Be Part of a Team & Take on Leadership Roles: Take on exciting challenges that will help you build confidence, work with a diverse team, and hone your communication skills. Be part of something BIG, while developing leadership abilities that will last a lifetime.
Get Exclusive, Behind-the-Scenes Access: Ever wondered what it’s like to work in a museum or historic site? This program offers you an all-access pass to the inner workings of Planting Fields, where you’ll be an active participant in shaping the future of this iconic place.

For Parents:
This is the ultimate chance for your teen to grow, learn, and thrive. They will develop critical life skills, gain confidence, and work alongside professionals in fields they are passionate about. Plus, they’ll be recognized for their dedication with a volunteer service award, which can give them a competitive edge in college applications and future careers.

Don’t miss out on this prestigious opportunity for your teen to make a difference, explore new interests, and become a leader in history, preservation, and sustainability!

Planting Fields Foundation will make student selections based on the following criteria:
Residency
– Must reside in Nassau or Suffolk County
Grade Level
– Must be completing 9th, 10th, or 11th grade by June 2025
Commitment
– Must be able to attend the full program schedule (Monday, July 14 – Friday, August 8, from 10am – 3pm each day)
Application Completion
– Submission of a fully completed application, including all required information and essay responses.
– One reference (teacher, counselor, mentor, or supervisor).
– Parent/guardian permission required upon acceptance.
Interest & Enthusiasm: Demonstrated interest in one or more program areas:
– Historic Preservation & Archival Research
– Education & Public Engagement
– Environmental Conservation & Sustainability
– Community Service & Leadership

Apply today and take the first step toward becoming a future leader in your community!

How to submit your application:
Simply apply online by clicking the button below, or download the application here, and email it to Education Manager, Erin Fitzpatrick. Completed application packets can be scanned and emailed to efitzpatrick@plantingfields.org with the subject line: 2025 Youth Leaders Application.

Completed applications are due no later than May 1, 2025, via Microsoft Forms or emailed to Education Manager, Erin Fitzpatrick. Completed application packets can be scanned and emailed to efitzpatrick@plantingfields.org with the subject line: 2025 Youth Leaders Application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please note that this application and/or program may be subject to change. For any questions, contact Erin Fitzpatrick efitzpatrick@plantingfields.org.