Every kid wants to be a champion. And every kid can make a real difference in the world right where they are, using the skills and interests that are unique to them. Over the next school year, your teenager can develop their passions and be a part of something bigger with the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo Conservation Champions Club, because everyone has a role to play in protecting and preserving wildlife and wild places. This program is designed to inspire and is completely free (but spots are limited!).

Naturally, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is passionate about wildlife conservation and preserving wild places for generations to come. They are an internationally recognized leader in the science of saving endangered species. You become a partner in conservation when you support the Zoo, and the Conservation Champions Club brings an in-depth, unique opportunity for teens who are eager to contribute to conservation and the health of our environment.

The Conservation Champions Club is a year-long program for youth aged 14 – 17. The program will run from September 2023 to June 2024 and includes a mix of virtual classroom time and field trips.

Virtual Classroom

Teens will be inspired to action through access to a virtual classroom on Canvas, complete with conservation resources, expert videos, and opportunities for peer discussions. Each month, they will explore a ‘big question’ related to conservation. Expert instructors lead discussions and activities designed to inspire and empower youth to take action. This helps kids think critically about conservation issues. They’ll develop skills in conservation and scientific literacy and make a difference by engaging in community-service projects. Applications are open from now until August 18, 2023.

Field Trips

Every month, the Conservation Champions will go on a field trip to gain hands-on experience and deepen their understanding of conservation. They’ll become advocates for the environment through hiking in local parks, exploring waterways and forests, and engaging in fieldwork. Field trips are mandatory and will take place on a Saturday. These field trips give youth a hands-on education on the importance of protecting and preserving wild places.

How to Become a Conservation Champion

Is your teen (ages 14 – 17) committed to accessing the virtual classroom and attending one field trip a month? Then they can submit their application to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo until August 18, 2023, or until the program reaches 40 students. Those accepted will be invited to an orientation and team-building session on the last weekend in August. After completing the program, kids will obtain a Certificate of Completion.

It’s time to take action to preserve wildlife and wild places. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo Conservation Champions Club gives your teen a chance to embrace the big, beautiful world out there and discover how they can make a difference.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo Conservation Champions Club:

When: September 2023 to June 2024
Where: The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo (Program runs online and at various locations.)
Address: 210 St Georges Drive NE, Calgary, AB
Email: ConservationChampions@calgaryzoo.com
Website: www.calgaryzoo.com