Teen Jobs and Volunteering
From teaching children about organic farming as a volunteer to performing paid work around the Farm year-round, NCOF offers teens ages 14+ a number of ways to explore their interests, expand their abilities, and blaze their path.
Leader in Training (LIT) (ages 14-16)
A summer volunteer program for motivated teens
Our LITs learn from and work alongside our summer staff to teach children (ages 3-11) about the environment, sustainability, and growing and harvesting nutritious food. This program is an excellent opportunity for teens to gain experience in the fields of farming, outdoor education, and teaching.
Weekend Volunteering (ages 12-18)
Throughout the school year, we offer Saturday morning sessions for teens looking to get involved in the farm while completing some of their Community Service Hours for school. Get the current volunteer offerings on our Volunteer Website, Point.
To Apply for LIT
Applicants (not parents) must email the assistant farm director at [email protected] the following:
- 1-2 paragraphs explaining their interest in the program
- Emails and phone numbers for two adults (e.g., teachers, coaches, religious leaders, scout leaders, or employers) who can serve as references
Candidates will interview in person with the assistant farm director.
We strongly encourage applying no later than the end of March, although we do accept applications on a rolling basis. LITs will complete required on-farm training in late May or early June.
Teen Work Crew (TWC)
(ages 15-18)
A paid, mentored summer work experience
Our teen work crew tackles the “big jobs” around the farm, such as fencing, mowing, splitting wood, rebuilding animal enclosures, and more. Participants have fun while working hard, mastering new skills, and boosting their confidence.
TWC members work 8:30 a.m.-3:30 pm., 24 hours/week, for 2-to-4 weeks in summer.
- Applicants (not parents) must email the farm’s executive director, Casey Townsend ([email protected]), 1-2 paragraphs explaining their interest in the program.
- Emails must be sent between February 1 and March 31. (Early applications are not accepted.)
- Candidates will be invited to a 2-hour work interview in mid-April before final hiring decisions are made by late April.
Mentoring Teens through Agriculture Apprentice Program
(ages 14-17)
- A year-round job training and paid work experience
- This program is ideal for teens who wish to master the wide range of skills it takes to run a diversified farm. Candidates are selected by farm staff based on participation in other farm programs for their skills and can-do attitudes. Working closely with farm staff and each other, apprentices take on a broad range of projects, building confidence and leadership abilities while forming lifelong friendships. Many go on to pursue degrees and careers in agriculture.
Participation in this program is by invitation only from the Farm’s executive director.
School Group Volunteering
The Farm offers volunteer experiences for middle and high school students and staff throughout the school year. See our School and Youth Groups page for details on what to expect and how to book.
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