OPINION: Building parks and the future: the impact of the YEP

Updated: 2 minutes ago Published: 2 minutes ago

As the snow settles on Anchorage’s parks and trails, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the transformative work being done by the Youth Employment in Parks (YEP) program in 2024. YEP is a 10-week summer job program that hires about 25 Anchorage teenagers to complete park and trail improvement projects — and the program has been running for 18 years. This summer, Anchorage teens have been hard at work improving our city’s green spaces, restoring habitats, building trails, and contributing to projects that will leave a lasting impact on the community.

Building a better anchor, one shovel at a time

YEP participants tackled an impressive variety of projects this summer, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and innovation. At Cuddy Park, YEP crews transformed the space through a combination of streambank restoration, drainage improvements and the creation of a rain garden designed to enhance the park’s beauty and prevent soil erosion. This project also involved planting a wide range of native plants, restoring the park’s natural landscape and stabilizing sensitive areas.

At Ship Creek and Hillstrand Pond, YEP teams focused on streambank restoration, strengthening fragile ecosystems with hundreds of trees, shrubs and grasses. These efforts are already benefiting local wildlife while protecting Anchorage’s waterways. Elsewhere at Sunset Park in the Government Hill neighborhood, YEP crews worked on trails, adding gravel, stabilizing curves and installing a new boardwalk to improve access for residents and visitors alike.

In total, YEP participants planted more than 8,000 trees, shrubs and willow stakes throughout the city, including Russian Jack, Valley of the Moon and Eastchester parks. Their hard work helps Anchorage’s urban parks thrive, creating healthier, greener spaces for the entire community.

Leadership and learning

Beyond physical work, YEP prioritizes education and recreation to ensure participants gain valuable life skills and community engagement experience. One day each week is set aside for adventures like hiking the Arctic Valley, biking the Ship Creek Trail, or kayaking Eklutna Lake. Participants explored the history and culture of Alaska through visits to the Anchorage Museum, Alaska Native Heritage Center and Musk Ox Farm, where they also volunteered.

These experiences are paired with lessons in environmental stewardship, teamwork and safety. From organizing events like the Mayor’s Marathon to gaining first-hand knowledge of the glacial ecosystems on the Matanuska Glacier, participants developed a deeper connection to the outdoors and an appreciation for Anchorage’s rich natural environment.

Why YEP matters

YEP’s impact extends far beyond the summer. Programs like this empower young people to take ownership of their community while building their confidence, leadership and work skills. YEP also demonstrates how investing in youth creates ripple effects, from greener spaces to healthier ecosystems and stronger communities.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the program is the adolescent’s personal growth experience. By working on meaningful projects, they learn the value of perseverance, teamwork and giving back to their community—skills that will benefit them long after the season is over.

As we look to 2025, I encourage teenagers in Anchorage to apply for this life-changing program. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, looking for work experience or simply looking for a way to make friends while making a difference, YEP has something for everyone. Parents, educators and community leaders, spread the word. This program is not just about parks; it’s about raising the next generation of leaders.

Applications for the 2025 YEP season are opening soon. Let’s keep the momentum going and ensure another incredible summer of growth, connection and impact. Together, we can continue to build a brighter, healthier and more vibrant Anchorage.

Ben Erwin is Alaska Trails’ trail program manager — more information and volunteer events are available at alaska-trails.org. More information about YEP can be found at anchorageparkfoundation.org/youth-employment-parks.

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