PUMA Crew provides young teens with structure, purpose, and opportunity through meaningful outdoor work, consistent mentorship, and real-world life skills. By combining hands-on conservation projects with guided conversations and positive role models, PUMA helps participants build confidence, responsibility, and a stronger sense of direction.
Supporting Young Teens Through Structure, Work, and Connection
What is PUMA Crew
PUMA Crew is a workforce development and mentorship program designed to support young people who haven’t always thrived in traditional systems. We believe that growth happens through doing real work, being held accountable, and having trusted adults who show up consistently. PUMA creates an environment where participants can learn, contribute, and begin to see themselves differently.
Who the Program Is For
PUMA Crew supports teens who:
Struggle in traditional school or work environments
Learn best through hands-on experience
Benefit from structure, routine, and accountability
Benefit from adult guidance and positive role models
Impact
Through PUMA Crew, participants gain work experience, build practical skills, and develop stronger interpersonal habits. Many show improvements in attendance, engagement, confidence, and communication. Just as importantly, they begin to see themselves as capable contributors—to their community, their teams, and their own futures.
What We Do Each Week
Paid environmental and conservation projects
Clear roles and expectations
Safety-first training and supervision
Adult mentors work alongside teens
Modeling communication, teamwork, and responsibility
Consistent presence week after week
Shared meals after work
Guided conversations about life, work, and the future
Building trust in a structured, supportive environment
Why It Works
Many teens don’t need more lectures or consequences. They need:
‣ Adults who show up consistently
‣ Clear expectations that don’t change
‣ Work that matters
‣ Time and space to grow
PUMA Crew works because it combines:
‣ Structure without shame
‣ Accountability without labels
‣ Opportunity without unrealistic pressure
Repetition, consistency, and relationship are the foundation of change.
Our Values
Structure with Compassion
Clear expectations paired with understanding
Real Work, Real Responsibility
Meaningful projects that matter
Consistency
Showing up, every week
Respect
For self, others, and the land
Growth Over Perfection
Progress through effort and reflection
Get Involved
PUMA Crew is built through community partnership. We welcome mentors, collaborators, and organizations who believe in creating opportunities through guidance, accountability, and meaningful work.
Interested in partnering, mentoring, or learning more?