Who are we?
Missouri Conservation Corps (MCC) is a volunteer-based nonprofit committed to restoring native habitats in order to benefit both the environment and the community. In addition to hands-on ecological restoration, we partner with local organizations to support climate initiatives and promote a sustainable future. Through teamwork and collaboration, we can preserve the region’s natural beauty and foster environmental stewardship.
Our Mission
To involve citizens in meaningful service, promote environmental stewardship, and develop leadership skills to reduce climate impact.
MCC started as a ragtag, goodwill effort in Columbia’s Kiwanis Park to remove invasive bush honeysuckle using volunteers, neighbors, and friends. Our first unofficial workday was held in April 2021, during the pandemic. After a few loosely organized volunteer workdays, we began to receive encouragement and support from Volunteer Columbia, Columbia Parks and Recreation, and the Kiwanis Club. Fast forward to 2022, we established a board of directors, organized more workdays, and signed a funding agreement with the Missouri Department of Conservation to sustain our efforts. We acquired our 501c3 nonprofit status in December 2022.
Since 2021, MCC has been organizing events that have transformed into vehicles for community growth and collaboration. Volunteers meet other volunteers and strike up friendships over their shared love of the landscape around them. Our community, our sense of purpose, and our love grows as the native environment is restored. Our dedicated volunteers and community members are what makes Missouri Conservation Corps what it is. This is who we are.
Since 2021…
MCC facilitates habitat restoration through invasive species removals, native tree plantings, and creek cleanups. As we continue growing, broadening our reach and perspective, we also aim to bring education on why conservation matters to our events, and dive deep into how this work pulses positively throughout our lives, our ecosystems, and our world. Over the years, we’ve witnessed an outpour of support and interest for these activities in local parks and green spaces—our very own cities and backyards. This localized approach helps integrate citizens with the nature around them and creates projects unique to the needs of the community.
This work could not be accomplished without the mighty force of our amazing volunteers, and if our mission resonates with you, we hope you will join us on our journey.
