Urban Farm Fellow
California Climate Action Corps
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Term length
09/16/2024 - 08/15/2025
Application window
Application closed
Location
Panorama City, California
Hourly pay equivalent
$19.76
Project summary
The California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) is part of a statewide initiative to address and mitigate the effects of climate change. CCAC matches Fellows with organizations to mobilize community members to take direct climate action through education, volunteer mobilization, and assessment focused on urban greening, organic waste diversion and edible food recovery, and wildfire resiliency. This is a climate-focused, workforce development program for emerging climate and environmental leaders.
Opportunity description
Black Thumb Farm (BTF) recognizes an overwhelming need for hands-on job training and food sovereignty in our underserved communities. Our mission is clear: empower historically underserved youth and provide our community with fresh, healthy, locally-grown food. BTF programs are rooted in indigenous farming practices, reconnecting BIPOC youth to their ancestral roots, and instilling a deep sense of stewardship at every step of the farming journey. We strive for holistic restoration, revitalizing the soil while restoring the larger ecosystem - both social and natural - in which the farm exists. We endeavor to be agile, adapting to local environmental concerns such as soil degradation, water availability, and climate variability. We're not just farming; we're preparing our communities to face the challenges of a changing climate head-on. Duties include, but are not limited to: Develop an on-site composting system, in collaboration with our partner LA Compost, to divert approximately 1,000 pounds of organic waste annually. Expand Farm Hands curriculum through tailored skills training that aligns with indigenous farming approach and addresses skill gaps in agriculture. Organize, coordinate, and lead educational community workshops for our Neighborhood Nourishments program. Assist in climate-friendly projects at the farm and school gardens with mulching, enriching soil with compost, and planting and caring for native plants to maximize soil health and retain water. Craft and distribute outreach and recruitment materials at tabling events to promote soil health, urban gardens, and Farm Hands and Neighborhood Nourishment programs. Cultivate a robust coalition of partner organizations to initiate conversations about addressing food inequality and improving land accessibility for historically disadvantaged communities.
Benefits
- $33,600 stipend
- $10,000 education award
- 340 hours of professional development
- Minimum essential healthcare
- Loan forbearance
- Food and childcare assistance (for those eligible)
Requirements and qualifications
Requirements
Live in California by August 16, 2024. Must be age 18 or older by August 16, 2024. Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Must be a US Citizen, US National, or lawful US resident to participate.
Preferred qualifications
An interest in climate change mitigation, volunteerism, or public service. Experience with outreach, education, training, or community behavior change. Fundamental understanding of climate change science, environmental policies in California, and/or environmental priorities. Excellent organizational, writing, interpersonal, and speaking skills.
Opportunity details
Focus area
- Urban greening
- Organic waste and edible food recovery
Work environment
- Indoor
- Outdoor