Conservation Leadership Development Program (CLDP)

Five Kupu participants standing in a pasture, sharing smiles for a group photo.
Kupu participant in a native forest using a chainsaw to remove invasive species.
Two joyful Kupu participants taking a selfie on a beach with plant regrowth efforts in progress on Midway Atoll.
Kupu participant tending to an albatross bird in its nest.
Five Kupu participants in wetsuits on a small boat in Kaneohe Bay, displaying hand-painted signs that read 'One Million Urchins.'
Kupu participant carrying a bountiful bunch of freshly harvested bananas under a breadfruit tree.

“Kupu taught me how to become a leader, have compassion towards the environment, and respect the cultural heritage of the land. The skills I learned are directly applicable to my position today. It opened doors for me professionally and exposed me to opportunities for future employment.” —Nick, CLDP Participant with the UDSA

The Conservation Leadership Development Program is built for individuals looking for an intensive entry-level experience in preparation for a career in the conservation field. CLDP participants serve at a single host site that best matches the individual’s interests for a 6- or 11-month term.

Currently accepting applications for CLDP 2024 Seasonal Terms:
Seasonal program terms begin in July. See timeline linked below for more details.

Looking for the 2024-2025 CLDP Application?
Sign up here to be notified when the applications launch!

  • Program Information:

    • Based in the Hawaiian Islands and U.S. Pacific Islands (Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, Maui, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu, American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands, Rota and Saipan)

    • 6-Month or 11-month program terms

    • Full-time (40 hours/week)

    2023-2024 CLDP Member Position Description

    Benefits:

    • Receive an in-depth, entry-level environmental experience from an agency of interest

    • Help protect the Pacific Islands and Hawaii’s natural resources and make a positive impact in the community

    • Earn a monthly living stipend (subject to taxes), stipend amount depends on which island you are based on

    • Earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award upon program completion: Award of $3,447.50 for Half-time term members and $6,895.00 for Full-time term members

    • Access opportunity for interest earned on certain educational loans (during the service term) to be paid for by AmeriCorps

    Qualifications:

    • Be at least 17 years of age by program start date

    • Possess/be working towards high school diploma or equivalent

    • Have own housing and transportation

    • Pass a criminal history check

    • Comfortable serving in outdoor environments

    • Able to perform physically demanding duties

    Timeline:

    • Applications for the Fall cohorts have passed. Applications for the Winter cohorts are now open.

    • Program dates here

    Member Application

  • Program Information:

    Please read the CLDP 2023-24 Host Site Information & FAQ Page for details regarding dates, term types, and host site fees.

    Benefits:

    • Receives a Full-Time Member at a subsidized cost

    • Kupu will assist your organization/agency with recruitment efforts and material

    • Kupu Staff Support

    • CLDP Program Staff support

    • Administrative Staff support

    • Human Resource Staff support

    • Recruiting Staff support

    • CLDP Member will assist in executing your organization/agency’s environmental stewardship tasks/projects

    • A potential hirable candidate

    Qualifications;

    • Sites must be either a non-profit organization or a State/Federal agency

    • Located in the U.S. Pacific Islands or Hawaii's environment.

    • Available and have the capacity to provide mentorship/supervision for members.

    • Provide 40 hours/week of meaningful direct service in conservation and verify hours served.

    • Direct service = activities that address local environmental needs that causes an impact to the people and community

    • Are not providing their services on private property.

    Host Site Application