Calling teens in 9th grade to 11th grade – come join Trail Ambassadors – our year-round environmentally focused, work-study program. Participate in this DelNature program and receive a stipend for involvement.
As one of our Trail Ambassadors, under the supervision of Thea Lopez, our Youth Development Coordinator, you will engage the Wilmington community through educational activities in local community spaces and centers and DuPont Environmental Education Center. As an ambassador to your community, you will introduce people to their local outdoor opportunities including: trails, nature, waterways, and environmental centers. Throughout the year, receive professional and life-skills training, take field trips, teach activities to younger youth, and complete community service projects. This program provides hands-on outdoor work experience, career exploration, leadership development, community outreach, and exposure to environmental advocacy.
Program Location: DuPont Environmental Education Center, Wilmington, DE
Thea Lopez
Youth Development Coordinator
Trail Ambassador Responsibilities
As a part of the program, participants will:
- Lead educational activities in Wilmington neighborhoods and at DEEC
- Introduce residents to trails, parks, and waterways
- Support stewardship projects that improve our local environment
- Help teach nature-based lessons to younger youth
- Complete service projects with community partners
- Explore environmental and agricultural careers
- Learn how nature, public health, and environmental justice intersect
Program Benefits
- Paid, hands-on experience caring for parks, wetlands, and green spaces
- Leadership development & teamwork skills through real community projects
- Career exploration with field trips to universities, farms, and professionals
- Public speaking and environmental education experience
- Exposure to environmental advocacy & justice initiatives
Eligibility Requirements
- Students ages 14–17 (rising 9th–11th graders preferred)
- Able to commit to program schedule
- Comfortable working outdoors and trying new skills
- Positive attitude, reliability, and willingness to learn
- Ability to bike, kayak/canoe, or willingness to learn
- Able to commute to DEEC (bus passes available)
Schedule
- March – October, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30 – 6:30pm, occasional Saturdays in place of a Tues/Thurs meetings.
- June – August, Monday – Friday, 10am – 3pm
Stipends for Trail Ambassadors
Summer stipends are $275/wk, paid monthly.
School year stipends $275/month.
DelNature is dedicated to intentionally building a culturally diverse organization and strongly encourages applications from youth that identify as BIPOC and/or women. All are welcome to apply; priority will be given to applicants who are Wilmington residents. Contact Thea Lopez to learn more.
Important Dates
Interviews: Ongoing
Program begins: March 10, 2026
Program ends: October 15, 2026
Applicants Must Submit
Complete and submit a Trail Ambassadors Application (including ONE signed letter of recommendation, from a school counselor, teacher, or other adult who is not a relative, detailing how the applicant demonstrates the qualities that suit them for this position)
Apply Now
Questions? Contact Thea Lopez, Youth Development Coordinator