The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is passionate about wildlife conservation
We are an internationally recognized leader in the science of saving endangered species. Your support of the zoo means you’re also being a conservation champion!
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Welcome to the Conservation Champions Club
At the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, we believe that everyone has a role to play in protecting and preserving wildlife and wild places. That's why we created the Conservation Champions Club, a fully subsidized year-long program for youth aged 14-17 who are passionate about conservation and the environment.
Our hybrid program runs from September to June and provides access to a virtual classroom on Canvas, complete with conservation resources, expert videos, and opportunities for peer discussions. We inspire action by guiding our champions to think critically about conservation issues, develop skills in conservation and scientific literacy and make a difference by engaging in community-service projects.
Each month, we explore a 'big question' related to conservation, providing our champions with the knowledge and tools to become advocates for the environment. Our expert instructors lead discussions and activities designed to inspire and empower youth to take action.
Program Information
Field Trips
Conservation Champions go on a field trip each month to gain hands-on experience and deepen their understanding of conservation. From hiking in local parks to exploring waterways and forests, our champions will engage in fieldwork that inspires them to become advocates for the environment. Each field trip takes place on a Saturday, and attendance is mandatory. By getting out into the field, our champions experience first-hand the importance of protecting and preserving wild places.
Become a Conservation Champion!
We are accepting applications for the Conservation Champions Club from June to August, or until the program reaches its' capacity of 40 students. To participate, youth must be between the ages of 14 and 17 years old and commit to accessing the resources on the virtual classroom and attending one field trip per month.
Applications must be submitted before August 18th. Successful applicants will be notified of their acceptance on August 23rd and will be invited to an orientation and team builder the following weekend. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].
Join us in our mission to inspire and take action to sustain wildlife and wild places. Together, we can make a difference and create a wilder future.
Testimonial
“I joined the Conservation Champions Club last year and my life has changed drastically. I feel like I know now for sure I've chosen the right path for myself. I found my passion and I know where I'm going. This program has shown me that I am capable of my dreams and I've learned more than I thought possible from a club. I'm so lucky that I joined and I'm really hoping I can join again because there is nothing I love more than spending time learning or spending time with animals, and with the Conservation Champions Club, I get to do both!”
– Felicity T., Conservation Champion
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