SINGLE IDENTITY-BASED CREWS TOOLKIT Examining How Conservation Corps are Integrating Identity into Traditional Crew Experiences

Abstract

Since the inception of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933, over 130+ Conservation Corps are still providing opportunities for young adults to engage in trail work, invasive species mitigation, and habitat restoration through traditional crew opportunities. This research specifically examines how a small number of Conservation Corps are providing opportunities for underrepresented youth through single identity-based crews. Examples of single identity-based crews include: All Women Crews, American Sign Language Inclusion Crews, LGBTQ Crews, Native American Crews, Veteran Crews, and more. This research asks the following: (1) Why are Conservation Corps engaging in single identity-based programming, (2) How are Conservation Corps implementing these single identity-based crews, and (3) How can Conservation Corps create intentional and accountable single identity-based crews? Findings show that there is not an overarching framework for designing single identity-based crews, nor is there a consensus on whether or not Corps should implement these crews in the first place. This research asks Conservation Corps to examine both their intentions and plans for accountability in providing safe spaces for underrepresented groups within the Conservation Corps world.