Empower the Next Generation of Climate Leaders

Bring the Youth Climate Institute to your school and inspire students to lead on climate action—while gaining resources, recognition, and support as an educator.

Act now - stipends for new chapter leaders are available and all fees are waived for a limited time, thanks to an anonymous donor.

Please fill out this contact us form to reach the YCI team.

Your Name(Required)

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What is your school/organization?

Please list the school you attend or work at or the organization that you are affiliated with.

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What is your message for the YCI team?

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“The Howard County Conservancy’s Youth Climate Institute is a reassurance that people all over the world and in my community are making an effort to stop climate change, as well as creating an avenue to actually participate in that effort.”

– Michael Richmond, Glenelg High School

Why Partner with the Youth Climate Institute?

Teachers are at the heart of YCI’s success. When you bring a chapter to your school, you empower students while also gaining professional growth and recognition.

Access professional development opportunities
Support your school’s Green School/Green Ribbon Certification
Receive a stipend for your leadership
Use YCI’s ready-to-go curriculum and learning resources
Inspire students through hands-on, solutions-focused projects

Your Path to Starting a Chapter

Apply Online

Fill out a quick interest form.

Get Training

Learn through YCI’s professional development and educator resources.

Launch Your Chapter

Guide students as they complete workshops and community projects.

Celebrate Success

Support students as they graduate as Certified Ambassadors.

What Our Teachers Say

“I’ve loved seeing how accessible this program is for my students and also just how much fun kids are having with it…”

"YCI has been an amazing opportunity for my students to explore the science behind climate change as well as individual actions they can take to reduce their own impact."

"Participating in YCI has enabled my students to learn about pressing environmental issues, communicate what they have learned with others, and take meaningful action within our community."

Ready to Bring YCI to Your School?

Our donors choose to support YCI because they believe in the power of teachers and students working together. Stipends are available for a limited time for new chapter leaders—take the first step today to secure yours!

What’s In It for Students?

When you start a YCI chapter, your students get more than climate knowledge—they gain skills and recognition that prepare them for the future.

Leadership Experience

Build confidence by organizing real-world projects.

Community Impact

Make meaningful change on local climate issues.

National Certification

Earn a credential that strengthens college and scholarship applications.

Connection & Inspiration

Join a network of passionate teens supported by a growing national movement.

“The Youth Climate Institute has been an amazing experience. I enjoyed learning about climate change and directly having an impact on my community. Collaborating with mentors and making positive changes in my community showed me what I can do.”

Serena Goyal, River Hill High School

Everything You Need to Lead a Chapter

Starting a new program can feel overwhelming—but with YCI, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. We provide all the tools, training, and backing (with support from an anonymous donor) to make running a chapter simple and rewarding.

Professional Development

Earn recognition while gaining new skills through YCI’s training.

Curriculum & Resources

Access ready-to-use lesson plans, activities, and project guides.

Educator Network

Join a nationwide community of teachers leading YCI chapters with the help of donor-funded resources.

About the Youth Climate Institute

The Youth Climate Institute (YCI) is a program of the Howard County Conservancy. Launched in 2021 in response to student demand for climate action during the pandemic, YCI quickly grew into a nationwide movement.

Today, YCI partners with educators across multiple states to train and certify students as climate leaders. With generous support from anonymous donors and other leading organizations, YCI is building a trusted network of schools and teachers leading the way in climate education.

Serena Goyal, River Hill High School

Got Questions?
We’ve Got Answers.

Who can start a chapter?

Any high school teacher, educator, or community leader passionate about guiding students in climate action.

Is training provided?

Yes! We offer professional development and resources so you feel supported from day one.

What’s in it for my school?

YCI chapters strengthen applications for Green School/Green Ribbon Certification and highlight your school as a leader in sustainability. Schools also have the opportunity to earn official YCI recognition as a Gold (1-5 years), Platinum (6-10 years), or Diamond (11+ years) school or center!

Do I get compensated?

Yes. For a limited time teachers can receive compensation thanks to a generous donor.

Partner With Us to Empower the Next Generation

Your leadership can transform your school and inspire students to act. Stipends are available for a limited number of new chapter leaders, thanks to an anonymous donor—don’t miss your chance.