Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2025

Contact:
East Arkansas Regional Youth Employment Initiative (EARYEI)
Phone: 870-667-1758
Email: EARYEI24@gmail.com
Website: www.earyei.org (under construction)

EARYEI ANNOUNCES SECOND YEAR OF PATHWAYS TO THE FUTURE URBAN COMMUNITY FORESTRY PROGRAM IN EASTERN ARKANSAS

FORREST CITY, AR – The East Arkansas Regional Youth Employment Initiative (EARYEI), in collaboration with the Arkansas Human Development Corporation (AHDC) and the Great Rivers Education Service Cooperative, is proud to announce the second year of the Pathways to the Future (PTF) Urban Community Forestry Program across Eastern Arkansas. This continued initiative reaffirms our commitment to empowering youth and communities in St. Francis, Lee, Monroe, and Phillips Counties through environmental education, workforce development, and civic engagement.

Launched in 2024 as a pilot program, the PTF Urban Community Forestry Program has proven to be a scalable model that actively engages underserved communities in the planning, planting, and management of urban and community forests. Now in its second year, the program will expand upon its strong foundation to deliver even greater impact.

Program Highlights:

Youth Summer Program
Now entering its second year, this dynamic, hands-on summer program offers high school youth the opportunity to build practical skills in urban forestry and environmental conservation.
– Ages: 16 – 18
– Residency: Must reside in St. Francis, Lee, Monroe, or Phillips Counties
– Pay: $15 per hour (up to 26 hours per week)
– Focus: Job readiness, environmental education, and community engagement

Get Involved:

Youth Application: https://bit.ly/ucfapplication

Project Site Recommendation: https://bit.ly/ucfprojects

For more information about how to apply or partner with the program, please contact:

East Arkansas Regional Youth Employment Initiative (EARYEI)
Phone: 870-667-1758
Email: EARYEI24@gmail.com
Website: www.earyei.org (currently under construction)