Common Threads connects kids to healthy food in the garden, in the kitchen, and at the table. We want kids to grow up making food choices that are good for their bodies, their communities, and the environment. Founded in 2007 and based in Bellingham, Washington, Common Threads is a grassroots, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes a “seed to table” approach to food production, good nutrition, and environmental stewardship.  Most of our programs take place on public school grounds, during the school day.  Additionally, Common Threads runs after-school gardening and cooking programs at schools and low-income apartment complexes, and spring/summer camps in our school gardens and at our urban farm site.

Common Threads celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all volunteers and employees. Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures and attributes, can people at Common Threads achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the organization.

Responsibilities

The AmeriCorps School Farmer will serve in a support and collaboration role with the Food Educators and will be selected based largely on their agricultural skills (as opposed to teaching and cooking skills.)

• Support school-based gardening and greenhouse management in collaboration with the Food Education team (staff and AmeriCorps members)
• Develop and maintain crop plans for school gardens and greenhouses
• Develop and implement training for Food Educators on a variety of farming and gardening topics
• Lead school-based garden lessons during spring and fall and cooking lessons during winter
• Lead or support after school gardening and/or cooking clubs (school-based and low-income apartments)
• Lead camp-style programs during spring break and summer camps
• Manage the recruitment, supervision, and appreciation of program volunteers
• Manage administrative tasks, including email communications, collecting and tracking data
• Support community events and other relevant food education opportunities for families as they arise
• Complete a minimum of 1700 hours within a 11.5-month service term from August 24, 2020-August 15, 2021

Compensation

• Living allowance totaling $15,000 during the term of service ($1304.35 per month x 11.5 months)
• Education Award from the National Service Trust in the amount of $6,095 upon successful completion of service
• Health care coverage including dental and vision
• Child care allowance for qualified members
• Food stamp eligibility
• Opportunity to learn and grow in the company of other passionate service members
• Professional development including classroom management, farming, nutrition, trauma informed education, etc.

Skills and Qualifications

Minimum requirements:

• Must be at least 17 years old  and a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or legal permanent resident of the U.S.
• Basic computer skills
• Willing and able to travel to multiple service sites (via personal vehicle, Common Threads’ vehicle, bike, etc.)
• Willing to serve long hours outside in all weather
• Passionate, committed, creative, flexible, detail-oriented, capable of working both independently and as a team
• Have strong agricultural skills and experience in growing food

The ideal candidate will also have a solid background working with kids.