Student Conservation Association (SCA)

SCA Leader Teams Handbook

Summary

This handbook defines the role of the SCA and the Programs’ policies and guidelines. It is to be referred to and followed. There are three sections- general information, a section specifically for the Leader Team Crew Leader, and a section specifically for the Leader Team Members.

Overview

SCA is the nation’s oldest and largest provider of conservation service opportunities for young people. Each year SCA provides the opportunity for approximately 4,000 people to serve public lands in all 50 states. The Leader Team program aims to provide off-season work opportunities for SCA Field Leaders and aspiring SCA Field Leaders that encourages their professional growth & development in the Conservation Leadership field. Leader Team Members will increase their technical conservation skills, outdoor skills, and group management skills by collaborating with agency partners & their peers through formal & informal learning opportunities.

Leader Team Members come from across all team-based programming- they could be a Community Leader from Pittsburgh, a seasoned National Crew Leader, or a Project Leader from the Native Plant Corps program. Members could have minimal outdoor experience, be arctic explorers, or be looking to get some trail work experience.

This handbook defines the role of the SCA and the Programs’ policies and guidelines. It is to be referred to and followed. There are three sections- general information, a section specifically for the Leader Team Crew Leader, and a section specifically for the Leader Team Members.

The General Information section addresses:

• SCA’s Operating Values & Leadership Behaviors
• SCA Policies, Protocols, & Guidelines
• Advisory on Workplace Discrimination & Sexual Harassment

Travel Information

• Crew Life
• The Crew Leader section addresses:
• Preparing for your Leader Team

Managing your budget

• Planning & preparing for days off, professional development opportunities, & required program experiences
• Final paperwork & reporting requirements

The Member section addresses:

• US Bank Cards
• Member Benefit Information

Trail Types Covered

General. All trail types are relevant.