Company description
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Norwood, Colorado. Through eight integrated programs, we promote food security, increase access to healthy food, and support local farmers and producers.
Internship description
Community Food Systems Intern Fresh Foundation | Norwood, CO | $18/hr | Up to 40 hrs/week | Seasonal
About the Role
The Community Food Systems Intern will gain hands-on experience across multiple areas of Fresh Foundation's local food programs, including CSA packing, farmers market support, food pantry logistics, and farm assistance at Birdhouse Farm. Working closely with Fresh Foundation staff and community partners, the intern will play an active role in connecting locally grown food with the people who need it most.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in food access, sustainable agriculture, community nutrition, or nonprofit program management.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this internship, applicants must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a current student, a recent graduate (within 6 months of graduation), or a beginning farmer or rancher with 10 years of experience or less
Have a genuine interest in food systems, food access, or rural community development
During onboarding, you will be required to submit a qualifying application to the CDA to verify eligibility before starting work.
What You'll Learn
By the end of this internship, you will have gained practical experience in:
Local and regional food supply chains and distribution logistics
CSA operations and customer fulfillment
Farmers market operations and direct-to-consumer food sales
Food access programming and food pantry operations
Community outreach and relationship-building within a rural food system
Hands-on farm operations including planting, cultivation, and harvesting
Core Responsibilities
CSA Packing & Fulfillment Assist with assembling and packing weekly CSA boxes, ensuring shares are packed accurately and consistently. Support CSA member communications and pickup coordination as needed.
Farmers Market Support Help set up and break down Fresh Foundation's market booths in Norwood and Mountain Village. Restock and organize products throughout the market, engage with customers, process sales transactions, and track sales data and inventory at the close of each market day.
Farm Assistance at Birdhouse Farm Support seasonal planting, crop maintenance, and harvesting at Birdhouse Farm. Assist with post-harvest handling including washing, sorting, and packing produce. Follow safe and sustainable farming practices as directed by farm staff.
Food Transport & Pantry Logistics Transport food from collection and production sites to the Fresh Foundation Food Pantry and other distribution locations. Follow safe food handling and transport protocols, assist with receiving and stocking deliveries, and maintain accurate logs of all transport trips and quantities delivered.
General & Administrative Support Maintain accurate records and inventory sheets across all program areas. Submit timesheets bi-weekly every Monday by 9:00 a.m. Participate in team meetings, support Fresh Foundation events and outreach, and share observations and feedback to help improve program operations.
Schedule & Location
This is a seasonal, full-time position of up to 40 hours per week. Specific days and shift times will be determined based on program schedules. Work takes place across multiple locations including the Fresh Foundation facility, Norwood Farmers Market, Mountain Village Farmers Market, the community food pantry, and Birdhouse Farm. Reliable personal transportation is required.
Qualifications
Genuine interest in food systems, food access, sustainable agriculture, or community development
Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a program in food science, agriculture, nutrition, public health, nonprofit management, or a related field — or equivalent lived experience
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Organized, dependable, and able to manage multiple responsibilities across different program areas
Friendly and comfortable engaging with community members and customers
Basic computer skills for record keeping and communication
Who We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who brings curiosity, initiative, and genuine care for their community. The ideal candidate isn't afraid to get their hands dirty — literally and figuratively — and finds meaning in making good food accessible to everyone. You'll thrive in this role if you're adaptable, collaborative, and excited to learn how a small organization can make a big impact on a local food system.
Equal Opportunity
Fresh Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, and abuse of any kind. All staff are expected to uphold a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for clients, volunteers, and the public.
Compensation
this position is: hourly, $15-20/hr
Application instructions
If you are not registered, you'll be prompted to do so. Don't worry, it's free!
Deadline
May 22, 2026