cause
Community And Urban Science Enrichment
The Community And Urban Science Enrichment (CAUSE) program is dedicated to celebrating the energy and creativity that Camden City teens bring to the mission of the Center while empowering them to become environmental and educational leaders in the community.
The Community And Urban Science Enrichment (CAUSE) program is a unique, 5-year science education and internship program for Camden youth in grades 7-12 that empowers them to become environmental and educational leaders in the community. Thanks to the generosity of many individual and institutional donors, Camden teens participate in the program at no cost to themselves or their families, and even get paid after completing their 9th grade year.
CAUSE teens learn by doing. Each year, they take field excursions to places such as the beach, wetlands, forest, or mountains for hands-on field work and techniques training. They visit other aquariums, zoos, and science museums to learn from a broad range of professionals. As they progress CAUSE teens learn increasingly advanced STEM topics, develop sophisticated professional and leadership skills, and have extended opportunities to practice those skills in real life.
CAUSE teens give back by leading summer camps for Camden children, participating in environmental stewardship and community service projects in the Camden community, and working with Center staff on educational programs at Adventure Aquarium.
The CAUSE program includes training in:
- Advanced STEM topics including marine biology, ecology and oceanography
- Teambuilding
- Public Speaking
- Creative and Professional writing
- Inquiry-based learning and teaching
- Workplace etiquette and professionalism
- Interview Preparation
- Resumer and cover letter writing
- Diversity, equity, inclusion and justice
- Conflict resolution
- Financial literacy
We accept applications for the CAUSE Program from September – November each year.
CAUSE recruits for 7th, 8th, and 9th grade
7th, 8th and 9th grades students who are Camden residents and enrolled in a Camden school are eligible to apply for the CAUSE program. Students must remain in school to continue participation in the program.
The CAUSE program is entirely funded by donors so there is no cost to students or their families.
We accept applications in the fall each year. Applications are open now for 7th, 8th, and 9th graders. Applicants are required to participate in an interview with a parent/guardian and a member of the CAUSE Staff.
It’s okay if you’ve struggled in school or haven’t had time to participate in a lot of clubs or sports. We accept a wide variety of students as long as they are interested in learning about science and the environment, giving back to their community, and making a commitment to the program and their peers.
The CAUSE program requires a significant commitment after school, on the weekends and over the summer. As a CAUSE participant, you’ll be expected to:
- Participate and complete science training sessions.
- Attend weekly training meetings and workshops to develop personal and life skills.
- Assist, and eventually lead, summer camp program for children grades K-8.
- Assist Center staff with after-school programming, community service projects, outreach programs and educational programs at Adventure Aquarium.
- Participate in learning excursions/activities designed to increase scientific knowledge and knowledge and skills to work with children.
- Meet the requirements to advance in the CAUSE program.
- Complete additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Beginning at the end of 9th grade, CAUSE participants are paid minimum wage.
