We are the Worcester County Youth Action Board (WCYAB): a group of young adults who are working to end youth homelessness in Worcester County. We lead our own special projects to raise awareness and meet the needs of youth experiencing housing struggles in our community.
The goal of EcoYouth is to make local outdoor areas, nature skills, and environmental careers more accessible by exploring these topics with youth who are at-risk or have experienced housing problems. We are planning to hold a series of free workshops on Saturdays in May and June. Come to one workshop or attend them all!
Meals are provided for each workshop. Transportation can be provided upon request. Detailed information will be sent to registrants closer to the workshop date. Contact YAB@LUK.org with any questions.
Prizes will be given to participants who attend all workshops. We hope to see you there!
Woods Wisdom: Survival Skills & Forest Living
May 10, 2025, 9am-noon, Rutland MA, Hosted by Anthony Brogno
Learn the basics of wilderness survival and forest living with expedition leader Anthony Brogno. This workshop will cover hands-on skills like shelter-building and staying safe in the woods, while also practicing awareness techniques. It will take place in the forestland next to Mesa Farm and focuses on real tools and strategies for spending time outdoors.
Field to Fork: Exploring Small and Large-Scale Farming
May 17, 9am-noon, Rutland MA, Hosted by Dale Perkins
Get a firsthand look at the range of agriculture in New England with tours of Mesa Farm and Jordan Dairy Farm in Rutland, MA. We’ll start at Mesa Farm, a small, diverse homestead with animals, gardens, and hands-on learning, then head to the expansive Jordan Dairy to see how large-scale dairy and crop operations work. Discover how farms of all sizes contribute to local food systems.
Voices of Change: Advocating for Climate Justice
May 31, 9am-noon, Worcester MA, Hosted by Mass Audubon
Talk with Mass Audubon’s Youth Climate Leaders to discuss how climate change is impacting Worcester County and what climate justice looks like in our communities. You’ll hear from young activists working across the state and learn how to take action locally through advocacy, education, and community engagement. After the discussion, we’ll take a walk through Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary to explore how local ecosystems are connected to climate solutions.
Land Connections: Nature-Based Mindfulness
June 14, 6-9pm & optional overnight, Petersham MA, Hosted by Brother NorthStar
Join Brother NorthStar, founder of One People, One Earth, for an evening of grounding practices, storytelling, and connection around the fire. Together, we’ll explore our relationship with the Earth through breathwork and shared experience. Optional overnight camping follows (materials and equipment provided), hosted in collaboration with University of the Wild.
Green Futures: Exploring Careers in Sustainability
June 21, 9am-noon, Fitchburg MA, Hosted by WCYAB
Join us for a panel discussion and resume-building workshop designed to help young adults explore opportunities in the environmental field. Connect with professionals from diverse sustainable sectors and hear firsthand about pathways into these careers. This event will provide valuable insights, resources, and connections to help you launch a career focused on protecting the planet.