Urban Agriculture Internship

JOB TITLE: Urban Agriculture Internship

REPORTS TO: Community Garden Program Manager

SCHEDULE: Tuesday-Friday (9:00am-5:00pm) [Varies]

STATUS: 200 hours total

COMPENSATION: $16.90/hour

NOTE: This position is exclusively for youth members currently receiving services from the organization. Applications from outside candidates will not be accepted.

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION:

Safe Place for Youth (SPY) serves as a pivotal resource for young individuals facing or at risk of homelessness in West Los Angeles. Established in 2011, our organization provides trauma-informed, accessible programs designed to assist young people in transitioning from homelessness to stability, enabling them to thrive. Our comprehensive services include outreach, drop-in support, health and wellness initiatives, case management, educational and employment assistance, and housing solutions.

SPY is dedicated to addressing systemic barriers to equity, fostering community collaboration, and delivering innovative, youth-centered programming. We are committed to attracting and nurturing a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of backgrounds, including but not limited to racial, ethnic, gender identity, and socioeconomic diversity. We actively encourage applications from individuals who identify as part of historically marginalized groups to enhance our equity-focused approach.

ROLE SUMMARY:

This 6-month, 240-hour internship within the Breaking Barriers to Employment program provides participants with hands-on training, professional development, and assistance in identifying and transitioning to long-term employment opportunities. Focused on the SPY Community Garden, this internship emphasizes food justice, community engagement, and personal growth.

The initial three months will be spent at the SPY Community Garden, where interns will gain knowledge in gardening, urban agriculture, landscaping, and culinary skills. The subsequent three months will occur at a partner organization of the intern's choice, within sectors such as food service, landscaping, and horticulture. Throughout the internship, participants will benefit from personalized support sessions with the Intern Liaison and group-based professional development classes.

Additionally, a 100-hour internship option is available through SPY's Education and Employment program, offering similar responsibilities with a more flexible schedule.

This internship is ideal for individuals eager to enhance their workforce capabilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist the SPY Garden Team in cultivating the garden (planting, watering, weeding, composting, harvesting, and distribution).
• Engage authentically in discussions and activities related to gardening, including garden tours and workshops.
• Contribute to the planning and facilitation of garden workshops for youth and community members.
• Support management in monitoring plant and volunteer data as required.
• Participate in SPY Garden team meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Genuine interest in gardening or urban agriculture.
• Strong listening skills; utilizes reflective techniques to understand the needs and interests of others.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic work environment; collaborative and effective problem-solving skills.
• Proactive; maintains high standards for personal and team performance.
• Open to learning; adopts a patient and consistent approach to personal development.
• Receptive to feedback and able to follow directions effectively.
• Thoughtful communicator; provides constructive feedback.
• Welcoming demeanor; encourages participation from peers and community members.
• Authentic and respectful of the diverse perspectives of others.
• Committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.

BACKGROUND REQUIREMENTS:

• Applicants must be youth members currently receiving services from Safe Place for Youth (SPY) to be eligible for this position.
• Must be between 16-24 years of age.
• Must be engaged in either Education & Employment or Case Management at SPY.
• Interest in exploring gardening or urban agriculture in a professional context.
• Reliable communication method is required.
• Willingness to undergo a background check.
• Punctuality and organizational skills are essential.
• Able to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds in a multicultural setting.
• Utilizes a harm reduction and trauma-informed approach when interacting with young people.
• Experience in peer education and knowledge of youth homelessness issues is preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Extended periods of sitting at a desk and using a computer.
• Exposure to various environments, including office and outdoor settings.
• Physical activities may include lifting up to 15-20 pounds.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS:

Mandated Reporting Requirements: The individual in this role is classified as a 'mandated reporter' under California law and must comply with the associated requirements as a condition of employment.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements: All workers in homeless services organizations must provide proof of vaccination. If eligible for a booster shot, proof of the booster is also required. If not fully vaccinated, weekly COVID-19 testing may be necessary.

NOTE: All staff members will undergo a probationary period of three months before being considered regular employees. The organization reserves the right to extend this period if necessary. Employment remains at-will, allowing both the employee and the organization to terminate the relationship at any time.

EEO STATEMENT:

All employment decisions will be based on merit, competence, performance, and organizational needs. Safe Place for Youth does not discriminate based on any protected status under federal, state, or local law. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Please include references in your application.