Dago Mendoza Zurita – Youth Corps Adventures at AntFarm
January 28, 2025Are you looking for a summer job or a temporary job during the school year? Are you looking for an educational and fun experience in nature? If you are, then apply for one of Oregon’s Youth Corps programs.
The mission of Oregon Youth Corps is to advance youth workforce and stewardship experiences that strengthen communities across Oregon. Oregon Youth Corps improves access for opportunities, strengthens communities, prepares a future ready workforce, and advances pathways.
Dago Mendoza Zurita began with AntFarm by volunteering with CommunityConnect before moving into his first paid position with YouthCore. CommunityConnect helps elders in Clackamas County, Oregon maintain independent living. Volunteers assist with home management tasks, including yardwork. YouthCore builds connections and fosters growth through service to the community and hard work.
Dago’s favorite part of working at AntFarm has been figuring out what he is interested in. It felt great to help people, and seeing the tangible differences in the community was incredibly impactful! Through AntFarm, Dago has enhanced his skills in community engagement and bonding: “You meet a lot of different people. With that comes a lot of interaction with the community and all the people in it.”
AntFarm encourages volunteers to think seriously about their future and explore areas of interest. Dago emphasizes that AntFarm has a lot of variety in projects which he really appreciates. There is a lot of exposure to new projects and responsibilities.
When asked what he would tell others considering signing up for this program, Dago said, “Do it, honestly. Go for it. Give it a shot. It’s really fun to see all the things you can do and the people you can help, and all the changes. It’s really awesome.”
Learn more about all of the programs at AntFarm including CommunityConnect and YouthCore at antfarmyouthservices.com.
Other organizations offering Youth Corps programs that you can contact are:
Northwest Youth Corps: www.nwyouthcorps.org
Heart of Oregon: www.heartoforegon.org