Breaking Barriers: Making Wildlife Accessible to All

Breaking Barriers: Making Wildlife Accessible to All

Diversity, equity, and inclusivity in wildlife health related careers are imperative for this profession whose activities impact all of society. This pilot project is dedicated to increasing awareness of and opportunity for wildlife health related career opportunities to high school students from underrepresented San Francisco Bay Area communities. Due to a multitude of barriers, largely financial, only a small proportion of the Bay Area high school student population realistically has access to wildlife health educational opportunities. Through this program, we will provide access to information as well as financial (a stipend for work, meals, transportation) and logistical (application assistance, transportation coordination) support for up to three students from underrepresented backgrounds (first generation college bound and/or low income) to be able to participate in a youth volunteer program at one of two Bay Area wildlife rehabilitation centers. In addition, students will be provided with mentorship throughout their program, will be invited to UC Davis to meet One Health Institute (OHI) staff, and will be expected to create a presentation of a clinical case or other relevant learning outcome from their experience to present to their peers, thereby perpetuating awareness and interest in the wildlife health field.