recycle + reinvest
Soil soldiers
youth eco-leadership employment program
The Soil Soldier Program prepares justice-impacted students in Nashville with the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on skills in environmental sustainability and urban agriculture. By prioritizing conversations around soil health, recycling, and regenerative practices, this program empowers the next generation of environmental leaders to advocate for sustainable change while addressing issues of environmental justice and equity.
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The Soil Soldier Program is a paid opportunity designed to connect high school students to real-world environmental work. Focusing on neighborhoods most affected by pollution and environmental neglect, the program takes an intersectional approach—highlighting the importance of environmental justice, community storytelling, and empowering our Nashville youth to lead the charge for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Soil Soldiers are leading the charge to transform underutilized spaces into green, thriving environments. By investing in these young leaders, the program helps create both immediate and long-term solutions to environmental neglect in the neighborhoods that need it most.
the soil soldiers
Each spring session, Soil Soldiers engage with their Nashville community through a hands-on project focused on a specific environmental issue or sustainability challenge related to soil health, recycling, and urban agriculture.
Following a project-based learning model, participants work collaboratively on their project for 6-10 weeks, tackling real-world problems that impact their neighborhoods.
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Applications for the Spring 2025 Soil Soldier cohort are currently open! If you have any questions or concerns, please email us.
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soil soldiers
We are committed to empowering every child with the skills and knowledge they need to build a strong, independent future. The Soil Soldiers empower youth through financial literacy, environmental education, and hands-on community leadership development.
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Applicant Requirements:
Must be an enrolled student (Ages 12 - 21)
Available on weekends for work
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PROGRAM DETAILS: June 6 - August 1
Fridays @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Week 1 - 2 | R & R Orientation & Training
Week 3 - 4 | Introduction To Urban Forestry & Environmental Justice
Week 5 - 6 | Community Leadership Ed & Financial Literacy Field Trip
Week 7 - 8 | Hands-On Learning Project
volunteer for soil soldiers
Our volunteers are the backbone of Youth Jobs for Justice Impacted Youth. Without their dedication and hard work, we wouldn't be able to make the impact that we do. If you're looking for a chance to make a meaningful difference in your community, we'd love to hear from you.
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PROGRAM GOALS:
• Celebrate youth achievements through structured graduation ceremonies.
• Provide education on soil science, farming, and tree planting.
• Promote leadership development and environmental advocacy.
• Create financial growth opportunities through investment and entrepreneurship.
• Introduce knowledge of green jobs and sustainable careers.
. Plant 200 Trees in Nashville, TN
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Join us in our mission to create a better world, one tree at a time!