Tappin Roots Internship – Application Deadline

2026 Tappin Roots Internship

Organized by ELSO

Tappin Roots (TR) is an environmental internship program within ELSO’s Workforce Development Program for Black and Brown identified high school students in Beaumont, Texas and Portland, Oregon. Rooted in a culturally responsive framework, Tappin Roots centers career exposure, job readiness, and life skills development while supporting youth in building meaningful connections to the environment, community, and their cultural histories. The program was developed in collaboration with Black and Indigenous led organizations committed to equitable access to environmental and STEAM pathways. We’re excited to announce that in fall 2025, Tappin Roots Oregon expanded to include a college level cohort that will serve as near peer mentors for incoming high school interns.

Program Details:

• TR is a 5 month paid internship program, running from February-June in Texas and March-August in Oregon
• 22 interns total will be selected (10 interns in Texas, 12 interns in Oregon)
• Interns and parents or guardians must attend an orientation to complete paperwork, review expectations, and set community agreements
• Interns are expected to attend monthly Saturday symposiums, complete 40 hours of camp training, and participate in a paid summer work practicum with Wayfinders Camp
• Interns will explore environmental and STEAM careers through hands on activities and workshops led by professionals of color
• Learning includes storytelling, life skills, financial literacy, computer basics, and culturally responsive environmental education
• Interns will be supported by a college level cohort serving as near peer mentors
• Each intern can earn up to $3,000 based on participation and program milestones

Deadline: Friday, March 6th, 2026
Service Area: Portland Metro
Service Area: Portland Metro
Topic: Environmental, Nature-based
Cost: Free – earn up to $3,000 total stipend