AntFarm Youth Services Fights to Keep Vital Summer Program Alive

A Sudden Shift in Funding. In early spring, AntFarm Youth Services learned that the funding which had powered its summer work experience program for nearly a decade had been cut. The news was sobering, but the response was immediate. Staff knew that if nothing was done, youth across Sandy, Estacada, and Molalla would lose a meaningful opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with their community. Rather than step back, AntFarm mobilized. Leaders, staff, and partners came together to reimagine the program on a smaller scale, ensuring that local youth could still experience mentorship, skill-building, and a sense of belonging.

Through support from AntFarm’s Workforce Development and Youth Services teams, as well as community partners like the Clackamas Workforce Partnership, the Higher Education Coordinating Commission, the Oregon Youth Conservation Corps, the Clackamas River Basin Council, the Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce, Estacada High School and others, AntFarm kept the doors open to a program that has shaped the lives of hundreds of young people. What emerged was different than summers past, but no less impactful: a program centered on intentional teaching, strong mentorship, and youth voices that continue to carry forward AntFarm’s mission.

Mentorship at the Core. Olivia Solis, AntFarm’s Senior Manager of Youth Programs, emphasized the importance of keeping the program alive. She noted that even in a reduced form, the summer experience gave young people a chance to step up, build confidence, and work alongside trusted adults. “What we saw was youth taking ownership of their roles. They stepped into leadership, supported each other, and learned how to work through challenges together,” she said.

Shannon Grandy, Outdoor Programs Manager, echoed that sentiment, highlighting the value of mentorship within small crews. “Our team brought heart and energy every single day. These youth weren’t just completing tasks, they were finding their place in the community and learning that their voices matter,” she said.

Leadership Perspective. Neal Hatley, AntFarm’s Workforce Development and Deputy Executive Director, explained how the smaller scale of this year’s program allowed for deeper connections. “With fewer youth and sites to manage, we could be more intentional. It reduced some of the challenging logistics of past summers and created space for stronger relationships,” he reflected. “That kind of focus matters when you’re teaching skills that can stick with someone for life. This is the hardest, most chaotic, most rewarding thing we do each year. Seeing these youth engaged, growing, and making an impact? it’s why we’re here.”

Community-Based Learning. For Community Work Program Specialist Gabriella Peña, the summer was about much more than the tasks completed. She described the importance of shared lunches, when the recreation space filled with laughter, music, and conversation.

“Those moments of fun and connection were just as valuable as the skills we taught,” she said. “The youth came eager to learn, asked thoughtful questions, and left with a sense of belonging. They received mentoring and skill-building with open minds, and they left with lessons about community, communication, friendship, and perspective.”

Youth Voices. Youth participants themselves emphasized the program’s impact in different ways. Nevaeh G. reflected that the program helped those involved by pushing them to communicate with others while also helping the community by keeping spaces clean and safe. Luke D. summed up his experience simply, describing it as “old friends.”

River V. offered advice for future participants, encouraging them to meet as many people as possible, introduce themselves, and be brave enough to step outside their comfort zone. “You never know what you will learn or who you will click with,” she said. “Do your best and work hard.”

Their words echo the program’s broader goals: building skills while fostering communication, connection, and confidence.

Community Impact. Projects completed through City Beautification and CommunityConnect improved local spaces and connected generations. Homeowners and elders offered thanks, treats, and encouragement, while teens learned to take feedback, solve problems, and contribute. These visible results reinforced the message that young people are not just future leaders. They are essential to community well-being right now.

Moving Forward. While the summer looked different than in years past, AntFarm’s commitment to youth development never wavered. Smaller crews meant more intentional teaching, more mentorship, and more space for youth to be heard. The organization continues to seek sustainable funding to keep programs like this alive for the long term.

As Olivia reflected, “This program has always been about more than the work itself. It’s about preparing youth for whatever comes next, whether that’s a first job, further education, or stepping into a bigger role in their community.”

For nearly a decade, AntFarm’s summer program has been a cornerstone of youth development in Sandy, Estacada, Molalla, and surrounding areas. Despite the funding cut, the summer of 2025 proved that resilience, creativity, and community support can still create meaningful opportunities for youth. Most importantly, the youth who showed up left with new skills, new confidence, and stronger connections to each other and their community.