Community Food Systems Internship Program: Reports to:
Nutrition Services Community Garden Coordinator
Mission Empowering communities to eliminate hunger by providing food, education and resources through innovation and collaboration. Summary Tarrant Area Food Bank’s Community Garden program helps community members and organizations learn skills necessary to grow food for themselves on a limited budget. Through the program, TAFB manages the Learning Garden and Kindred Spirit Kitchen Garden where volunteers learn about sustainable and organic gardening techniques and help grow produce for our neighbors in need. Learning Objectives Upon the completion of this internship, the student will demonstrate increased knowledge and skills in the following areas: Education: • Teaching a diverse audiences in a garden-based setting including: effective facilitation techniques, group management strategies, and age-appropriate teaching modalities • Practicing effective communication • Working effectively and efficiently in a dynamic team environment • Contributing as an educator and active member of a specialized learning community • Evaluating program efficacy • Leading discussions on nutrition and providing cooking demonstrations Gardening and Agriculture: • Basic small-scale organic vegetable production techniques including: Seeding, Transplanting, and Propagation • Garden care; Vermicomposting; Insects and Pollination; Harvesting • Networking with other area growers
Garden Intern Position Description Continued
Responsibilities Intern will be asked to support the Community Garden Coordinator with garden operations, education, event planning and general assistance, including but not limited to: • Garden workdays at the Kitchen Garden and Learning Garden • Plan and prepare handouts and presentations for garden workshops and events • Data collection and documentation of workshops and other activities • Work with a diverse volunteer base • Attend team meetings • Assist with TAFB’s annual Dip Deep Conference Qualifications and Requirements • An interest in learning more about nonprofits and community outreach • Willing to work as a team with other volunteers • Requires work schedule flexibility • Requires walking, standing, sitting and occasional lifting up to 40 pounds as well as ability to stand and work outdoors for 3-4 hours at a time • Willing to work outside in all weather conditions • Frequent travel in service areas; must have reliable transportation and possess a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance • Interns do not need prior gardening or farming experience but they must have interest in developing skills and knowledge in this area • Food Handlers Certification is a plus This internship is well suited to students studying nutrition/dietetics, science, public health and sustainability. This is an unpaid service learning opportunity. Time Commitment 200 hours over 8 weeks, Monday through Friday with occasional evenings and weekends. How to Apply Please submit a cover letter and resume to
[email protected] In the cover letter, share your experience in education, agriculture or sustainability and future aspirations. Drug testing is required.
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