Teen Council for Conservation

Approximately two dozen students pose for a photo with zoo representatives in front of a tree-lined background

About the Teen Council for Conservation Program

Since 2023, the L.A. Zoo Teen Council for Conservation has united youths and created pathways toward a future centered on conservation solutions in Los Angeles. This program has empowered young Angelenos from all communities and highlighted their strengths as leaders, developed their skills in conservation and community building, and inspired teens to enact change in themselves, at the Zoo, and in their communities.

This summer, the Teen Council for Conservation successfully completed its third and final program cycle. This valuable program has played a key role in the nearly 100 youths who participated and guided its development, helping advance the goals of the Zoo’s Conservation Strategic Plan.

Through immersive experiences, the L.A. Zoo Teen Council explored conservation in action, engaged in real-world dialogue to help shape policy discussions, and took part in opportunities to deepen their understanding of local ecosystems. They also led community events, like the Youth Conservation Symposium to empower more youth to take action, culminating their ideas into a shared resource, the L.A. Zoo YCS Action Plan Workbook, that will continue to guide impact across Los Angeles.

Throughout this program, we have also learned invaluable lessons and insights that will inform future initiatives. Evaluation results from the program show 89.2% of participants rated the Teen Council excellent or outstanding, with strong outcomes across each of the program’s six core components including leadership, career development, sense of place, professional development, community building, and impact. Importantly, participants left the program feeling better equipped to identify and take conservation action in their home, neighborhood, and city following their participation in the TCC.

Dowload YCS Action Plan

next steps

Although the Teen Council for Conservation is paused while we re-evaluate how we support and engage with local communities, we remain committed to co-creating transformative programs that expand opportunities for young people across Los Angeles. To stay connected and hear about new youth engagement opportunities, follow the Zoo on social media and check our website regularly for updates.