California Conservation Corps Foundation, Sacramento

California Conservation Corps (CCC) serves a dual purpose: it provides job training and leadership opportunities for underserved youth while using their skills to help protect our natural resources. CCC members come from diverse backgrounds—half of them don't have a high-school diploma—and range in age from 18 to 25. Participants are placed in crews of 15 and equipped with uniforms and safety gear so they can complete more than three million hours of public-service conservation projects every year. They act as emergency responders in the event of natural disasters, retrofit buildings to increase energy conservation, plant trees, install irrigation systems, and help restore wildlife habitats. After they finish one year of service, CCC members can receive educational scholarships through the state of California and AmeriCorps to continue their studies.