Nature and Belonging: Fostering Meaningful Youth Mentorship with CJ Greco

For many teens, finding a place where they truly belong can be life-changing. CJ Greco knows this firsthand. Having grown up in zoo education programs and after a voyage of self-discovery halfway around the world, CJ has found a safe space to explore, learn, and be herself. Now, as a teen program manager at Lincoln Park Zoo, CJ is creating that same sense of place for young people stepping into the world of conservation.Teen volunteer programs aren’t just about learning science—they’re about finding a place where you can be yourself.CJ Greco shares how Lincoln Park Zoo’s Teen Program provides teens with hands-on learning experiences that deepen their connection to wildlife, conservation, and community engagement. With a literal lifetime of experience, NAAEE 30 Under 30 CJ highlights the transformative impact of mentorship in environmental education, guiding teens toward careers in science, conservation, and education. This episode explores how creating space for youth in zoo programs just like CJ’s can foster a sense of belonging, safety, and long-lasting passion for conservation. Learn more about CJ's journey and discover tools and resources for educators by visiting https://eepro.naaee.org/eepodcast/CJ-Greco.Send us your thoughts! > The World We Want: The NAAEE Podcast is an educational outreach project of the North American Association for Environmental Education., in partnership with nonprofit GLOBIO. Find us on:Instagram: @thenaaeeFacebook: @THENAAEELinkedIn: @NAAEEYouTube: @thenaaee orEmail us at: [email protected] for listening, and thanks for sharing The World We Want!