See yourself in nature
We offer a variety of opportunities for Chicago’s youth and families. The Field’s Youth and Family-Centered Conservation programs, events, and resources help young people from 3rd grade through high school (and beyond!) make an impact where they live and to explore future career paths in the environmental sciences.
More than ever, as kids spend more time indoors, they need to connect to nature—for their health and for the planet. Our Youth and Family-Centered Conservation team supports a diverse group of future conservation leaders with hands-on, standards-aligned, local environmental engagement opportunities. We’re working to inspire and teach the next generation of conservation leaders.
Youth and families from the Chicago Region learn about the outdoors alongside museum ecologists, social scientists, and educators. You’ll meet others from across the city, all while learning about local nature. Together, we’re translating science into action.
When I think about my experiences in Field Museum youth programs, the relationships that I formed with my colleagues changed my life for the better and contributed to my sense of community in Chicago.
Levi Jenkins, past participant
Students and teachers from our partner schools learn about the outdoors alongside museum ecologists, social scientists, and educators. You’ll meet others from across the city, all while learning about local nature. Together, we’re translating science into action.
Environmental education programs
The Field’s Keller Science Action Center offers Youth and Family-Centered Conservation programs, events and resources for Chicago Region youth and families. All focus on learning about natural environments close to home.
Have questions or ready to get involved? Email us at action@fieldmuseum.org.
Mighty Acorns
Kids in grades 3 through 5 connect with their local ecosystems through Mighty Acorns. We work with many partners across the Chicago Wilderness region to engage more than 4,000 Mighty Acorns students in meaningful outdoor activities that pair with standards-aligned school curricula.
Chicago Green Ambassadors
Students ages 15 through 19 can participate in the Chicago Green Ambassadors program throughout the year with their high school and/or individually, and apply for the paid summer internship program. Together, the Roots & Routes Initiative and Youth and Family-Centered Conservation team lead Chicago Green Ambassadors in increasing access to green spaces. Participants from the neighborhoods of Chinatown, Bronzeville, Little Village, Pilsen, as well as the Calumet area all work to connect their communities to the south lakefront.
Watch what it's like to join Chicago Green Ambassadors
Fellows United for Environment, Growth, and Opportunity (FUEGO)
The Fellows United for Environment, Growth, and Opportunity (FUEGO) program increases the capacity of underrepresented young adults ages 18 to 24 from Chicago to pursue environmental careers, studies, and other pathway opportunities. Fellows are paid a stipend, paired with a mentor, and receive training, support, and opportunities for reflections and immersive outdoor experiences. Together, these activities build career readiness and prepare fellows for successful environmental careers.
