Key Information at a Glance
- Wanted: Volunteers for children’s groups, youth groups, and camps.
- Offer: Extensive training program (nature pedagogy, law, teamwork).
- Qualification: Acquisition of the youth leader card (Juleica) possible.
- Costs: Courses are usually free of charge for volunteers in youth association work.
Jena (19.02.2026) – Nature conservation needs not only hands to help but also minds to pass on knowledge. The Naturschutzjugend (NAJU) Thüringen has launched an initiative to recruit new volunteers who want to actively contribute to environmental education.
Reinforcements Wanted for Groups and Leisure Activities
The fields of activity in nature conservation are diverse, but work with the next generation is a particular focus for the NAJU. The youth association is looking for committed people who are ready to support existing children’s and youth groups or even have the courage to initiate new local offers. Especially in a university city like Jena, where environmental awareness is traditionally high, there is often great potential for this.
In addition to regular group work, so-called “teamers” are also being sought. These individuals supervise ecological camps and leisure trips where children and young people can experience nature firsthand. Such experiences often shape the entire subsequent environmental awareness of the participants.
Qualification: More Than Just “Being There”
In order not to send volunteers into work with young people unprepared, the NAJU relies on a sound training concept. The association organizes a further education program aimed at both young people and adults. Prospective group leaders in particular are to receive the necessary tools here.
The curriculum goes far beyond the mere identification of plants and animals. In addition to classic nature pedagogy, essential soft skills and legal foundations are on the agenda:
- Teamwork and group dynamics
- Conflict resolution and communication
- Legal issues and duty of supervision
The Path to the Juleica
A special incentive for interested parties is the opportunity to acquire the nationally recognized youth leader card (Juleica). Those who complete the NAJU training and additionally provide proof of a current first aid certificate meet the requirements for this ID. The Juleica serves not only as proof of qualification to parents and organizations but also often offers holders discounts in public facilities or with cooperation partners.
For volunteers involved in youth association work in Thüringen, these high-quality courses are free of charge. The aim of the initiative is to strengthen civic engagement and to inspire young people sustainably for nature and environmental protection.
Significance for the Region
In times of climate change and species extinction, extracurricular environmental education is becoming increasingly important. Organizations like the NAJU make a decisive contribution here by enabling children to build an emotional bond with nature. Those who get involved here invest time in the future of the region.
Interested parties can contact the NAJU Thüringen directly to find out more about the current training dates and local opportunities.
Source:
NAJU Thüringen seeks volunteers and offers training courses
Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.