Soil soldiers
youth eco-workforce development program
The Soil Soldiers Program is the entry point into B.4.L for youth, created in response to limited access to green space, healthy food, and environmental education in North Nashville. Many young people grow up in food deserts and heat-burdened neighborhoods with few opportunities to connect to land or nature. Soil Soldiers engage in hands-on learning through soil health, composting, gardening, tree planting, community cleanups, and food systems education. The focus is on environmental awareness, confidence-building, teamwork, and understanding how environmental justice connects to health, equity, and community well-being.
Cultivate the Change. impact our Future.
We are committed to empowering every child with the skills and knowledge they need to build a strong, independent future. The Soil Soldiers empower youth through financial literacy, environmental education, and hands-on community leadership development.
the soil soldiers
Each spring session, Soil Soldiers engage with their Nashville community through a hands-on project focused on a specific environmental issue or sustainability challenge related to soil health, recycling, and urban agriculture.
Following a project-based learning model, participants work collaboratively on their project for 6-10 weeks, tackling real-world problems that impact their neighborhoods.
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Applications for the Spring 2025 Soil Soldier cohort are currently open! If you have any questions or concerns, please email us.
​Applicant Requirements:
Must be an enrolled student (Ages 11 - 18)
Available on weekends for work
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PROGRAM DETAILS: March - December
Every Saturday @ 11:00 am - 3:00 pm​
B.4.L Soil Soldiers Youth Program: Training, Hours & Compensation
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Program Schedule & Compensation
Youth participate in a 12-month work cycle designed to balance learning, service, and leadership development.
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5 hours per week
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~20 hours per month
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240 total hours per year per youth
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Paid $15/hour for service learning, training, and community-based environmental work
Youth are introduced to:
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Workplace expectations
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Teamwork and collaboration
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Time management
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Communication and accountability
volunteer for soil soldiers!
Our volunteers are the backbone of Youth Jobs for Justice Impacted Youth. Without their dedication and hard work, we wouldn't be able to make the impact that we do. If you're looking for a chance to make a meaningful difference in your community, we'd love to hear from you.
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PROGRAM GOALS:
• Celebrate youth achievements through structured graduation ceremonies.
• Provide education on soil science, farming, and tree planting.
• Promote leadership development and environmental advocacy.
• Create financial growth opportunities through investment and entrepreneurship.
• Introduce knowledge of green jobs and sustainable careers.
. Plant 200 Trees in Nashville, TN
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Join us in our mission to create a better world, one tree at a time!