In order to encourage young adults to become more involved in the management, preservation, and stewardship of the Appalachian Trail, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) created the Next Generation Advisory Council (“NextGen” or “the Council”) to explore effective methods for advising and engaging their generation in trail advocacy and protection.
NextGen seeks to achieve the ATC’s strategic goal of broader relevancy – to increase youth and diversity in order to address the reality that America’s growing, diverse population is underrepresented in many conservation organizations.
The Council consists of 14 to 16 young, diverse leaders between the ages of 18 and 30 who serve two-year terms. Members work to address barriers to employment and recreation, create a more inclusive narrative of people utilizing the Appalachian Trail, and contribute advice to the ATC on programs and policies designed to encourage membership, advocacy, and leadership from a younger and more culturally diverse population than the current demographic.
NextGen members support the ATC in communicating effectively about the relevancy of the organization to a broader audience; advocating for stewardship of the Trail; forging new partnerships with youth and multicultural organizations; and supporting innovative projects to expand access to Trail resources.
To learn more about or to apply for the A.T. Next Generation Advisory Council, click here.