Conservation Corps launches area clean-up

College students now have the opportunity to improve city parks while earning money and an education through the new Austin Conservation Corps.

Austin Community College’s Center for Public Policy and Political Studies, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, Austin Energy and Goodwill Industries of Central Texas launched the program Wednesday afternoon at Lady Bird Lake Park.

“The Austin Conservation Corps gives the city a very inexpensive way to clean and repair the trails along Lady Bird Lake and to improve other parks,” said Mark White, former Texas governor and board member of ACC’s Center for Public Policy and Political Studies. “It also gives young people a positive way to earn money and a great way to advance their education.”

The Corp’s members will be paid from a $250,000 budget belonging to Goodwill and Austin Energy.

“This will be a good experience for the members to have chance to learn base teamwork skills, working with others and the opportunity to have the chance of both worlds — education and work,” said Chris Jacobi, case manager of Goodwill of Central Texas.

Nine members have already signed on for a 12-week commitment. Next spring, the group hopes to have 25 members.

“This program has taught me leadership skills, professionalism and how to better myself as an individual,” said Shilda Calvin, a corps member and ACC student.

This program offers students the chance to learn about work ethic and value, said Linda Young, special assistant to the ACC president. Austin parks need upkeep, and the members are getting the chance to get paid for their work, Young said.

“These young kids are making a commitment to gain experience at a job and an education,” said Mayor Pro Tem Mike Martinez.

Corps members will clean and repair trails and parks at Lady Bird Lake during a 12-week period starting next spring.

“This opportunity will be beneficial to students, but it also addresses the issue for the environment and makes more people aware for a better future,” said ACC President Stephen Kinslow.

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