HEIFER FARM helps rural communities lift themselves out of poverty through farming.  The farm offers a hands-on residential volunteer experience for those interested in doing a year or season of public service while building skills in the fields of experiential education, farm-to-table cooking, livestock management, or gardening and crop production. We are currently hiring for residential positions starting in August with stipend and housing included. VOLUNTEERING WITH HEIFER CHANGES LIVES – INCLUDING YOURS!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Education: Lead and facilitate education activities with program participants as scheduled both at the farm and in the community;
2. Culinary: For two or three days a week, work with Culinary Coordinator to plan menus using as much food & ingredients already on the farm as possible, then purchase necessary supplies and prepare meals for 15-40 people with program participant assistance;
3. Garden: Assist with garden staff with all aspects of work in the various Heifer Farm gardens;
4. Learn the basic information about issues of hunger and poverty, the mission of Heifer International, and link Heifer Farm programs to Heifer’s work around the world;
5. Perform other tasks as needs dictate, particularly in the colder months there will be other general operation tasks such as cleaning, firewood stacking, clearing brush, snow removal, etc.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Willingness and ability to learn and facilitate Heifer Farm’s experiential education tours and programs  to diverse (gender, ethnic, age, religion, etc.) groups of program participants;
2. Good interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work cooperatively with a wide range of people - facilitation and teaching skills are desirable;
3. Ability to prepare meals for 15-40 people (some experience cooking is required);
4. Experience and/or eagerness to learn organic vegetable production techniques;
5. Willingness and ability to learn to supervise groups of program participants while performing kitchen or garden work projects;
6. Willingness & ability to share housing (including room) with a diverse group of other Heifer Farm volunteers & participate in the household community including housekeeping chores;
7. Ability to lift 25 pounds and stand for extended periods;
8. Willingness to handle and prepare meat for meals.

PERKS:

• On-site, communal housing provided
• Stipend of ~$400 / month
• Gain knowledge and skills in education program facilitation, farming, cooking, and international development
• Access to farm vehicles for local transportation
• Seasonal farm veggies, as available
• Access to free health insurance through MassHealth for US Citizens
• Heifer Gift Shop discount

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be at least 18 years of age by starting date of volunteer service;
• Must pass background check;
• Must be fluent in the English language and possess excellent verbal & written communication skills.