Course Description: 16-Day Florida Keys: Marine & Wildlife Conservation Volunteer Program for Teens

Transform Your Summer: Youth Service and Environmental Adventure in the Florida Keys! 🌴

Unleash your teen’s potential this summer with an unforgettable journey to the stunning Florida Keys! This unique community service and environmental stewardship program offers high-achieving students the chance to make a real impact while exploring breathtaking marine environments. Participants will engage in vital conservation efforts, including restoring coral nurseries and supporting shark conservation initiatives. Alongside like-minded peers, your child will not only learn about protecting biodiversity but also develop invaluable life skills through meaningful service-learning experiences.

🌊 Program Summary

What It’s Like

Experience the perfect blend of hands-on education, impactful service projects, and thrilling adventures.

• 30 Service Hours

  Participants will earn a certificate of completion detailing their service hours and projects.

• Activities

  All recreational activities and excursions are included.

• Transportation

  Travel comfortably in passenger vans driven by our dedicated staff.

• Service Projects

  Each participant will contribute to every project, with specific projects confirmed in late spring.

• Accommodations

  Enjoy comfortable hotel stays throughout the program.

• Group Size

  Limited to 24 participants for a personalized experience.

• Meals

  Breakfast and dinner are provided daily.

• Dietary Options

  We accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.

✨ Program Highlights

• Snorkel in vibrant coral nurseries and active restoration sites while honing your fish identification skills.

• Relax on the sun-kissed beaches of the Florida Keys and explore John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

• Kayak and paddleboard through lush tropical ecosystems, including mangroves and seagrass meadows.

• Experience Miami from above at an aerial adventure park and from below while airboating to spot native Everglades wildlife.

• Witness the thrill of tarpon feeding, as these magnificent fish leap from the water in a dazzling display.

• Get hands-on with shark conservation efforts during an underwater volunteer experience.

• Celebrate the day at the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration, watching the sky transform into a canvas of pinks and reds.

• Go behind the scenes at the Turtle Hospital, where you may even get to feed rescued sea turtles!

🎯 Daily Activities Breakdown

Upper Keys, Florida

Explore mangrove tunnels on paddleboards or kayaks, and immerse yourself in the wonders of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park with snorkeling and kayaking adventures. Test your teamwork at an escape room, solving puzzles and uncovering clues together!

Lower Keys, Florida

Visit the Turtle Hospital for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at sea turtle rehabilitation, possibly even feeding the turtles. Relax on the stunning Sombrero Beach and participate in the thrilling tarpon feeding at Robbie's Marina.

Key West, Florida

Journey to Key West for the iconic sunset celebration at Mallory Square, followed by a leisurely stroll down Duval Street. Don’t forget to snap a selfie at the Southernmost Point, the lowest latitude land in the continental U.S.!

Miami, Florida

Experience the thrill of Treetop Trekking in South Florida's only aerial adventure park. Then, embark on an airboat ride at Sawgrass Recreation Park, getting up close and personal with the rich wildlife of the Everglades. Reflect on your incredible journey while enjoying your final evenings together in South Beach.

🏨 Accommodation Details

Upper Keys, Florida

Relax at the Holiday Inn, a beautiful waterfront property featuring an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and delightful outdoor dining options.

Lower Keys, Florida

Stay at the Fairfield Inn, where comfortable rooms and a fitness center await after your busy days of service and adventure.

Miami, Florida

Conclude your journey at the conveniently located Springhill Suites Miami Airport, perfect for sharing laughs and memories with newfound friends.

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This program is not just an adventure; it’s a transformative experience that nurtures personal growth, fosters community spirit, and builds lifelong friendships. Enroll your teen today and watch them thrive in a supportive environment dedicated to making a positive difference in the world! 🌟