Yelitza Garcia

Youth Engagement Manager

Professional Overview

Yelitza Garcia is an experienced educator and youth engagement specialist with a strong background in environmental science, sustainability, and community outreach. As the Youth Engagement Manager at American Forests, she leverages her expertise to inspire and empower young people to become active stewards of the natural world.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Youth Engagement Manager at American Forests, Yelitza is responsible for developing and implementing engaging educational programs and initiatives that foster environmental awareness, conservation, and advocacy among youth. She collaborates with schools, youth organizations, and community partners to create hands-on learning experiences that promote sustainable practices and cultivate a passion for protecting forests and the broader ecosystem.

Career Progression

Prior to joining American Forests, Yelitza held a variety of roles in the education and non-profit sectors. She served as a Lead Instructor and Instructor at Terra.do, where she delivered online climate education courses to students globally. As a Farmers Market Specialist at the Texas Center for Local Food, she worked to connect local growers with their communities and increase access to fresh, sustainable produce. Yelitza also has experience as an AP Environmental Science Teacher at IDEA North Mission College Preparatory Academy and as an Educator at the International Museum of Art & Science and the Joseph Moore Museum.

Yelitza's early career included a stint as an AmeriCorps Member at City Year Columbus, where she provided academic and social-emotional support to students in underserved communities. She also gained valuable research experience as an Undergraduate Research Intern at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

Throughout her diverse career, Yelitza has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, youth empowerment, and community engagement.

Academic Background

Yelitza holds a Bachelor's degree from Earlham College, where she was an active Student Sustainability Leader, contributing to campus-wide sustainability initiatives and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

Areas of Expertise

• Environmental education and youth engagement

• Sustainable agriculture and local food systems

• Curriculum development and hands-on learning

• Project management and community collaboration

• Passion for inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders

Professional Impact

Yelitza's work at American Forests has had a significant impact on engaging youth in environmental conservation efforts. She has spearheaded the development of innovative educational programs that have reached hundreds of young people, instilling in them a deep appreciation for the natural world and a desire to take action to protect it.

Conclusion

Yelitza Garcia's extensive experience in education, sustainability, and community outreach, combined with her unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, makes her a valuable asset to American Forests. As the Youth Engagement Manager, she continues to inspire and empower the next generation of environmental champions, contributing to the organization's mission of protecting and restoring the world's forests.