You care. Do something. We’ll help.
The Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) empowers Chicagoans to complete neighborhood sustainability and environmental projects that impact and engage communities across the city.
Join Us
We are C3 Leaders: activists, environmentalists, community organizers, naturalists, volunteers, and professionals starting a movement. We believe that through grassroots sustainability initiatives we can improve the quality of life for all Chicagoans—and spark a lasting change.
Learn
As a C3 Leader, you’ll receive unmatched training and support through the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and our partners. Participants attend a series of classes that explore big picture issues and local solutions, network with peers and sustainability thought-leaders, and practice community organizing skills that empower Chicagoans to make difference.
- WATER – Conserve water, manage storm water, and improve water quality.
- GREEN SPACE – Be a steward of Chicago’s open spaces and learn about our urban ecology.
- WASTE – Recycle, reduce, reuse, and rethink the materials we use every day.
- ENERGY – Use active transportation and increase energy efficiency to lessen impacts on climate.
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT – Engage other people and groups in projects that bring out the best in your community.
- PROJECT DEVELOPMENT – Complete a community asset map, manage a budget, make a plan, and carry it out.
Community Impact
All C3 projects have a measurable environmental impact, educational components, and require that you lead a community-based team of peers in planning and completing the project. After training, C3 Leaders develop and implement their own projects with support and professional guidance from Nature Museum staff members and up to $250 in materials to complete their project. Past projects range from community-based campaigns and workshops to outdoor stewardship workdays.
Ready to do Something?
Check back in the fall for updates on our Fall 2023 Sustainability Leadership Training Series. To be notified of sustainability events, volunteer opportunities, and future training orientations, please sign up for our monthly newsletter.
Please contact c3@naturemuseum.org with further questions.
Support for the Chicago Conservation Corps is provided by:
