Garden Development Assistant
Summary
The Garden Development Assistant is a core member of the Soulful Seeds team. The position will contribute to work that is increasing access to fresh, healthy food and nutrition education among vulnerable populations by developing and maintaining neighborhood gardens in high-need communities.
Position Description
The Garden Development Assistant is a core member of the Soulful Seeds team. The position will contribute to work that is increasing access to fresh, healthy food among vulnerable populations by developing and maintaining neighborhood gardens in high-need communities. The full-time position does not need previous food systems, nutrition or farming experience, although it is preferred. Ongoing training will be provided during this AmeriCorps term, and the successful candidate must have a desire to learn about sustainable food systems and food production. The position will report to the Soulful Seeds Executive Director, and collaborate directly with the Soulful Seeds Garden Manager. The position involves physically demanding tasks at the garden, interaction with diverse groups and populations, and working independently as well as within a dynamic team.
Our Purpose
Soulful Seeds’ purpose is to increase access to fresh, healthy food for the most vulnerable by building and maintaining gardens in high-need neighborhoods and teaching people to plant, grow, and harvest their own food.
Our Vision
We envision neighborhood gardens across the community where all people have an opportunity to grow and flourish.
Our Values
We value accessibility of fresh, healthy food for all.
We value the garden as a space where people can gain a sense of community, purpose, self-confidence, healing, and sustainability.
We value a solution-based approach to addressing food insecurity by building skills that allow people to provide for themselves and their families.
We value a sense of community and belonging- breaking down barriers and obstacles which are sometimes impossible to overcome.
We value organic and regenerative gardening practices.
Our Programs
Our programs include food access, education, and workforce development. All of our programs advance four impact priorities: creating healthy neighborhoods, increasing fresh food access, improving self-sufficiency/independence, and building meaningful social connections.
Service Location: Soulful Seeds’ garden on the Our Place Campus, 480 Galletti Way, Sparks, NV. AmeriCorps contracts, living allowances and education awards are managed through the Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation. Periodic daytime travel may be required within the metro area and region.
Timeline for Service: September- August 2023
Schedule: Approximately 40 hours per week. Time off includes 5 days of vacation, 5 days of sick leave and federal holidays. A total of 1,740 hours are required to be completed during this half term of AmeriCorps service.
Primary Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities:
Be a core member of the garden crew addressing the following tasks: harvesting, greenhouse propagation, transplanting, seeding, weeding and cultivation, irrigation assistance, crop fertilization and pest control, food safety practices, small equipment operation, and food packaging, marketing and delivery. (60% of time)
Play a leading role in Soulful Seeds food access program, campus education workshops, and educational outreach to garden neighbors struggling with food insecurity. (20% of time)
Develop and coordinate volunteer opportunities and events for garden neighbors and the public. This position will help further develop a structured volunteer program, and create outreach and program marketing materials pertaining to volunteer opportunities and Soulful Seeds’ programs. (10% of time)
Assist the Executive Director and Garden Manager in timely record keeping pertaining to crop production and grant reporting. (10% of time)
Secondary Responsibilities:
Developing relationships with other organizations
Recruiting and training volunteers
Facilitating other programs related to the outcomes of the garden
Participating in team meetings
Supporting the maintenance of garden infrastructure
Contribute to the development of future garden plans
Contribute to an inclusive and supportive garden environment
Coordinate with the Garden Manager and Executive Director to ensure seeds, fertilizer, and supplies remain in stock
Qualifications
Passionate commitment to working with others on food security and sustainable gardening/agriculture. Preference will be given to individuals who have an interest in a food systems-oriented career
Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment and take initiative to improve garden systems
Ability to work outdoors conducting physical labor in hot and cold temperatures
Outstanding work ethic and positive attitude
Strong interpersonal communication skills
Strong computer skills and experience with Google and Microsoft Office applications
Strong organizational skills
Experience working with volunteers
Preferred: strong understanding of or educational background in food systems and/or nutrition
Preferred: experience working in an urban farm or garden
Compensation and Benefits
This AmeriCorps position receives a modest living allowance of $26,000 for a full term and a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $6,895. Service members have the option to apply for student loan forbearance, and may be eligible for SNAP and Medicaid benefits. The Garden Development Assistant will have access to produce harvested from the garden.
To apply:
A complete application consists of a detailed resume, cover letter, and 2 professional references. Please submit your application directly via email to Brooke O’Byrne, Soulful Seeds’ Executive Director, at brooke@soulful-seeds.com. Incomplete applications and applications submitted indirectly via online platforms (such as Indeed or other) will not be considered.
Application Deadline – Open Until Filled