AmeriCorps Position at Washington Academy School & Community Garden
Are you passionate about education, sustainable gardening, and community service? Washington Academy School & Community Garden, in partnership with Healthy Acadia's Downeast Gleaning Initiative, is excited to announce am AmeriCorps service opportunity!
This role is perfect for those who want to make a meaningful impact in their community while gaining invaluable experience in education, gardening, and community engagement.
About the Program
Washington Academy (WA), established in 1792, is an independent secondary school in the coastal Maine community of East Machias. Current enrollment includes over 350 day-students and approximately 90 residential students-representing more than twenty surrounding communities and over fifteen countries. Learn more about Washington Academy at https://www.washingtonacademy.org/.
The team at Washington Academy believes in the power of hands-on learning and the importance of giving back to our community. The school garden is a vital part of this mission. Each year, the garden donates over 1,000 pounds of fresh produce to a local food pantry, helping to reduce local food insecurity. They are now looking to double this contribution and expand efforts to support their diverse student body and local community.
Your Role
As an AmeriCorps member, you will play a key role in this initiative. Your primary responsibilities will include:
Facilitating Hands-On Learning: Lead engaging and interactive classes where students work in the garden, learning about sustainable gardening and farming practices. You'll receive training from a master gardener and support from three trained gardeners/science teachers on campus.
Strengthening Community Partnerships: Work closely with the Assistant Head of School to maintain and enhance partnerships with the local food pantry, kitchen staff, Passamaquoddy mentors, and the science department.
Enhancing Garden Infrastructure: Be the first to experience and contribute to the longevity of our garden's new greenhouse, complete with water and power.
Promoting Sustainability: Facilitate service projects, support the sustainability club's garden activities, and provide residential students with opportunities to engage consistently in the garden.
Member Duties
To integrate the garden into the daily life of residential students, it is preferred that the AmeriCorps member lives in the campus dorm. This will help you gain comprehensive knowledge regarding the students' nutritional needs, cultural engagement surrounding food, and how the garden can support their high school learning and community involvement. In exchange for free room and board, your responsibilities will include:
Managing a dorm advisory group
Chaperoning weekend events once a month
Providing supervision one evening each week
Daily garden work with students and staff
Coordinating food deliveries to the food pantry
The Benefits of AmeriCorps Service
Joining AmeriCorps is more than just a job—it's a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on communities while developing your own skills and career. Here are some key benefits of serving with AmeriCorps:
Professional Development: AmeriCorps members receive extensive training and hands-on experience in various fields, including education, public health, and community service. This can be a great stepping stone for future career opportunities.
Educational Benefits: Members who complete their service term are eligible for an education award, which can be used to pay for college tuition or to repay qualified student loans.
Health Coverage and Childcare: AmeriCorps provides health coverage and childcare assistance to eligible members, ensuring that you can focus on your service without worrying about basic needs.
Living Allowance: While serving, members receive a living allowance to cover essential expenses. This allows you to dedicate yourself fully to your service without financial stress.
Community Impact: AmeriCorps members play a crucial role in addressing critical community needs, from improving education and health outcomes to combating food insecurity and supporting disaster recovery.
Personal Growth: Serving with AmeriCorps is a transformative experience that builds leadership skills, fosters teamwork, and enhances your ability to work in diverse environments.
Additional Information
Program Start/End Date: September 6, 2024 - August 7, 2025
Work Schedule: Full Time
Education Level: College graduate
Age Requirement: Minimum 18 years
Other Requirements: Car recommended, permits working at another job during off hours, permits attendance at local activities during off hours.
How to Apply
If you're ready to make a difference in the lives of students and community members, apply now to join our team! For more information and to apply, visit the AmeriCorps listing.
By joining AmeriCorps at Washington Academy School & Community Garden, you'll be part of a dynamic team working to improve food security, enhance education, and foster a sense of belonging and community among students. Apply today and start making a difference!