Youth Leadership & Service
Today’s youth leaders are tomorrow’s stewards of the Bay.
For over 35 years, Galveston Bay Foundation has been a place where young people looking to lead projects and engage the community can make a lasting impact on the Bay.
When kids become old enough to independently lead projects for a group of fellow scouts or engage with the public at a community event with minimal support, then they are ready to join us for our youth leadership and service programs.
Until then, families with children and adolescents are encouraged to participate with their children at our family-friendly community events until they are eligible to participate independently. This is a great way to introduce them to conservation volunteering and prepare them to lead on their own.
Youth-Led Service Projects
Youth who are interested in conservation, environmental leadership, or completing award-level service requirements may be eligible to lead a project with guidance from GBF staff.
Award-level projects are open to youth leaders from a variety of recognized organizations, and vary based on interest, capacity, and conservation needs.
Teen 4 the Bay
Ongoing leadership and public-facing engagement opportunities.
Teens 4 the Bay is designed for high school students who want to represent GBF in the community, build leadership skills, and support outreach and education efforts.
Applications open in late spring or early summer. Training and orientation takes place at the end of summer. This program involves independent volunteering and requires parental consent.
Applications for the Teens 4 the Bay program are currently open through May 3, 2026*.
Participation requires parent or guardian permission, and a letter of recommendation must be submitted as part of the application. Please have all materials ready before applying.
*You will not hear back from staff until after the application deadline.
Summer Youth Volunteering
Structured, short-term summer service with staff-guided projects.
Rising 7th–12th grade students who are passionate about the environment and looking to gain hands-on experience are invited to apply for Summer Youth Volunteering.
Projects vary week to week and may include environmental restoration, education support, manual labor, and behind-the-scenes assistance.
Participation is application-based and space is limited. Accepted students will receive additional details after selection.
K–12 Student Service-Learning
School and youth groups interested in a one-day, hands-on service-learning experience may participate through our Students in Action program.
Please review the program overview (↗) before registering with our Education Team (↗) .
Casual Youth Group Volunteering
Youth groups are always welcome to support the Bay by participating in GBF’s annual community events such as Trash Bash and Marsh Mania.
Visit our Events page (↗) and create an account to follow email alerts and stay up to date.
If you’re unsure which program is the best fit, start with a community event and we’ll help you find your next step. Email volunteer@galvbay.org.
