Youth Career Awareness Program (YCAP) Foundations
Ages 13–17
YCAP Foundations is a structured youth program designed for teenagers interested in wildlife conservation, animal care, and related career pathways. Through engaging, hands-on sessions, participants gain meaningful exposure to the world of wildlife rehabilitation while building skills, awareness, and confidence.
Each session is designed to introduce participants to real-world concepts in a way that is interactive, age-appropriate, and grounded in the work of a functioning wildlife hospital.
Participants develop a deeper understanding of wildlife care and environmental stewardship—empowering them to become informed advocates for wildlife.
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Program Structure
YCAP Foundations is offered as a monthly, drop-off program.
Each session is 2 hours in length and focuses on a specific wildlife theme and career pathway.
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Ages: 13–17
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Session Length: 2 hours
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Format: Drop-off program
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Frequency: Once per month (pending on season)
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Days & Times: To be announced
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Location: On-site at the Wildlife Clinic of Rhode Island
Enrollment is limited per session to ensure a high-quality, small-group experience.
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What to Expect
Each YCAP Foundations session includes:
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A species spotlight
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A career pathway focus
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A hands-on, applied learning activity
Participants will explore how different roles contribute to wildlife rehabilitation and conservation while engaging in activities that mirror real-world practices in a safe and supervised environment. Activities may include simulated care scenarios, enrichment building, diet preparation demonstrations, and other interactive experiences.
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Career Exploration Focus
Sessions are designed to introduce participants to a range of wildlife-related careers and operational roles.
Topics may include:
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Wildlife rehabilitation
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Veterinary and medical support
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Animal care and nutrition
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Enrichment and habitat design
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Conservation and environmental science
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Education and outreach
This rotating structure allows participants to explore multiple career paths over time while understanding how different roles work together within a wildlife rehabilitation setting.
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Safety, Permits & Animal Interaction
In Rhode Island, a wildlife rehabilitation permit is required to handle most wildlife, and such permits are not available to individuals under 18 years of age.
Accordingly:
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Participants will not handle wildlife requiring a permit
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Any permissible interaction will occur only under direct staff supervision
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Rabies Vector Species are strictly prohibited from any participant interaction
Participants will have opportunities to observe staff and permitted volunteers during animal care and rehabilitation processes when appropriate.
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Program Notes
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Sessions are designed to balance education with the needs and safety of our wildlife patients
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Content and activities may vary based on seasonal wildlife trends and clinic capacity
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Advance registration is required for each session
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We are committed to keeping this program accessible to all. If cost is a barrier, please don’t hesitate to reach out - support is available.
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Additional Considerations
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The Clinic is not allergen-free
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Participants with allergies must notify the Executive Director (all medical information remains confidential)
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Air conditioning cannot be guaranteed in all areas
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Appropriate dress is required; summer temperatures should be anticipated
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Cell phones and earbuds are not permitted during sessions
(Parents may contact the front desk at 401-294-6363 if needed)
Failure to follow program rules may result in warnings or removal from the program.
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Contact Information
For questions or to express interest in the Youth Career Awareness Program, please contact:
Olivia Harrington, Community Engagement and Programs Director at oharrington@riwildliferehab.org