Seasonal | July 1 – August 1, 2025
Location: Seattle, WA + local parks (travel required)
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Team: 2 Instructors + 1 Youth Mentor + Program Director
About the Program
LEAP (Leadership, Environment, Adventure Program) is a free summer program for Black youth ages 14–19 in Seattle. For 5 weeks, youth hike, build leadership and survival skills, connect with cultural history, and launch business ideas — all grounded in community and nature.
We meet in South Seattle but operate in parks, farms, forests, and outdoor classrooms across King County.
Who We’re Looking For
You’re a passionate educator or youth leader who:
Can teach in a park, not just a classroom
Enjoys walking, hiking, and being in the elements
Is excited to guide Black youth through bold, real-world learning
Has the presence, patience, and purpose to lead both group discussion and wilderness trail time
This is a physical, creative, relationship-based job. It’s not a desk role. It’s a leadership role in motion.
What You’ll Do
Co-lead a group of ~20 youth in daily programming
Hike 2–3 times a week (urban trails + regional hikes)
Facilitate workshops on leadership, outdoor skills, business, and cultural identity
Help lead a 2-day overnight camping trip (July 16–17)
Supervise and support youth during field trips and guest visits
Guide journaling, discussion, and team reflection
Create a safe, fun, structured, and liberating space
Support youth with IEPs, learning differences, or social-emotional needs
Model accountability, respect, and joy
Minimum Qualifications
At least 1–2 years experience working with teens in educational or outdoor settings
Comfortable with hiking, long outdoor days, and summer heat
Strong group leadership and communication skills
Commitment to racial justice, education equity, and youth empowerment
Available for the full program: July 1 – August 1, 2025
Note: All instructors are required to attend a virtual planning meeting over Zoom in mid to late June (date TBD, between June 17–24). This will cover roles, logistics, and final prep.
Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)
Experience in outdoor education, youth development, or social-emotional learning
CPR/First Aid certification
Familiarity with South Seattle parks and youth-serving organizations
Background in entrepreneurship, environmental education, or land stewardship
Compensation
$4,500 – $5,500 total stipend, depending on experience and role responsibilities.
This amount covers all 5 weeks of programming, including the required overnight camping trip and pre-program planning meeting.
