Program Overview: The Vermont Youth Conservation Corps’ Food & Farm Program is a dynamic youth development, diversified agriculture and food security initiative. At VYCC, we believe in the power that food has to connect us to the land, our community, and each other. We engage young people in organic farming and food education on our historic 400-acre campus in Richmond, Vermont. Annually, the program produces 12 acres of organically certified vegetables and meat and eggs from hundreds of pasture-raised chickens which are all distributed to over 400 families through our nationally recognized Health Care Share project. The Heath Care Share is a public health initiative that connects Vermont families who experience barriers to accessing locally grown produce or have a diet-related illness with a weekly vegetable share they pick up at partnering medical centers. Each year the program provides employment opportunities to youth and young adults from Vermont and around the country who assist in the daily operations of the farm. Additionally, the program has a robust food education component that connects the work we do in the field and the food on our plates, by preparing lunch from the farm every workday in the summer and sharing celebratory meals sourced from our farm with the larger community.
Position Description: The Director of the Food & Farm Program leads an experienced and passionate team in managing an organic farm where young people engage in agriculture, food security, food preparation, and community building. This compassionate leader will create the conditions for staff members to design responsive and impactful programs where young people and communities care for each other and the land that feeds us. The Food & Farm Program and its team is in a strong place, with a robust network of alumni and partners supporting its success. The new Director will bring experience, networks, and an innovative spirit to the VYCC team to build on the success and impact of the current program and continue its innovation and development. This position requires a passion for working with young people, education and food justice, a strong practical knowledge of farm and food systems, a deep commitment to community food security, and a collaborative and creative mindset.
How to Apply
Please complete our VYCC General Application (http://bit.ly/VYCCapp), to which
you’ll upload a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional
references. Questions regarding this position can be directed to Leah Mital at
[email protected]. No calls, please. Position is open until filled.
For more details, click here.