The Sierra Club DC Climate Leaders Program provides six months of hands-on training and mentorship to young and aspiring environmental activists. Sierra Club Climate Leaders learn about pressing local environmental issues and their solutions. Then, working with a supportive mentor, each participant helps develop and deliver an impactful Capstone Project that promotes the sustainability and environmental health of the District of Columbia. All participants receive a small honorarium for their participation.
What Will I Learn?
- Core climate and environmental justice concepts
- The landscape of DC environmental issues, solutions, and advocacy
- Community organizing and political advocacy skills
- Leadership skills required to plan and deliver on environmental activism
What Will I Earn?
- Community Service Project Hours
- Certificate of completion issued by the DC Chapter of the Sierra Club
- Connection to a network of environmentally motivated peers and adults who are effectively advocating to make the District more sustainable and healthy.
- A small honorarium
What are the projects like?
You can check them out here.
Who Can Participate?
The Sierra Club DC Climate Leaders Program is open to students who live in DC who will be a high school junior, sophomore, or freshman during the 2026-2027 school year (as well as high-school aged students from non-traditional schools).
When Will the Program Happen?
The Sierra Club DC Climate Leaders Program will begin in September 2026 and run through Aril 2027. Leaders will meet approximately twice a month, with a mix of in person and virtual meetings on Sundays from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM.
How Can I Apply?
Submit the application below by midnight on Monday, August 31st 2026.
Have Questions?
If you would like more information, please feel free to email youth@dc.sierraclub.org.