I Can Camp! and I Can Paddle!
I Can Camp! and I Can Paddle! members serve as Outdoor Skills Instructors alongside the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, teaching families camping or canoe/kayak paddling skills and educating the public about local ecology and natural resources.
Outdoor Skills Instructors, ages 18-35, serve June-August to co-lead the I Can Paddle! and I Can Camp! programs. I Can! programs introduce Minnesota families to a variety of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, paddling, and rock climbing.
Serving with our I Can Camp! and I Can Paddle! crews is a full-time program experience that requires a three-month commitment to serve the community through environmental stewardship and community outreach.
Learn more about the Minnesota DNR’s I Can! outdoor skills programs:
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Benefits
Corpsmembers value hard work, community service, and environmental stewardship and join the Corps to give back to the community while gaining life-long skills. Whether looking to jump-start a natural resources career, protect the environment, or simply try something new, Corpsmembers often have a transformational experience leaving them feeling more prepared for whatever comes next.
Training & Certifications
Outdoor Skills Instructors receive formal training from both Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Training topics include boating/paddling skills (canoes and kayaks), front-country camping, Leave No Trace principles, First Aid and CPR, water rescue skills, risk management, leadership and communication skills, etc.
Other benefits include:
- $17/hour salary
- Training, certifications, networking
- Access to outdoor clothing library
- Access to Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Sick and Safe Time, Paid Holidays
- MN Paid Family and Medical Leave
Life in the Field
A typical schedule is Wednesday through Sunday with varying hours, normally scheduled for 40 hours per week. Service will occasionally be scheduled on days outside Wednesday through Sunday, particularly in the beginning of the term to accommodate training.
Outdoor Skills Instructors will co-lead single day and overnight workshops for canoe/kayak paddling, front-country camping, hiking, canoe camping and backpacking. Each pair of instructors teaches basic skills instruction for 2-4 hour long drop-in workshops and 2-3 day overnight workshops.
Partners
