Teen Summer Environmental Opportunities

LOVE the environment? Want to share your passion?
Florida Oceanographic Society has summer volunteer opportunities for teens ages 15-17

Independent Beach Cleanups: Ideal for students who need a flexible schedule and are not able to make a weekly commitment. This volunteer program allows participants to conduct a beach cleanup at their convenience. It is as easy as registering to be a Florida Oceanographic volunteer, downloading the approved app, and beginning your cleanup. If you are looking to get credit for volunteer hours, you must get pre-approval from Florida Oceanographic Society’s Volunteer Coordinator. Available for Martin and St. Lucie County residents only. This is ongoing with no application deadline. 

Education Exhibit Guides: Ideal for students who like interacting with people of all ages. Participants will train to become Exhibit Guides at our invertebrate touch tank. Students will work with staff and interns to develop skills essential to careers in marine science and environmental education.  Participants will be required to commit to one 3-hour shift per week over the course of the summer. The training provided will also prepare students to earn additional volunteer hours throughout the year. Select applicants will be invited to an interview as part of the application process. Next training session Fall 2023.

Conservation Ambassador: Please check back soon for more information, or email Rosemary Badger, Volunteer Coordinator, at rbadger@floridaocean.org.

Qualifications and Requirements for all programs:

All Prospective Applicants Should:

  • Be at least 15 years old by June 1,  2023
  • Be enthusiastic, passionate and motivated
  • Be comfortable working with others

  • Be able to work outdoors in all conditions

To Apply:

Any high school student interested should complete the online volunteer application, and a one-page essay of your related experience and interest in Florida’s coastal ecosystems in addition to stating which program(s) you are applying for.  Students applying to be an Exhibit Guide or a Conservation Ambassador must submit two teacher recommendations using our online form (one must be from a science teacher). Students will be selected based on a combination of their application, essay, and, if applicable, the teacher recommendations. For more information contact Rosemary Badger, Volunteer Coordinator, at rbadger@floridaocean.org or 772-225-0505 ext 109.