JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Harvest Kitchen is part of Farm Fresh Rhode Island's initiative to increase the variety of value-added local farm products available, and part of the Farm Fresh RI mission to create a community-based food system. Started in 2010, Harvest Kitchen covers multiple facets of programming, including a 20-week culinary and job-readiness training program for youth that are involved with the RI Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF); and a sister production/training program that operates within the Rhode Island Training School. All products created by Harvest Kitchen use ingredients sourced from local farms. The program focuses on empowering youth to understand how their activities connect to the local food system while gaining the necessary skills and experiences to be able to pursue their personal and professional goals.

Job Function/Purpose of Role
The Harvest Kitchen Farmers Market Program Associate reports directly to the Harvest Kitchen Program Director. This position plays a key role on the Harvest Kitchen farmers market team by supporting all farmers market activities with a focus on organizing back end operations (inventory)
and outreach tactics (HK cafe and job training promotion).

This role demands an ability to stay organized, and readily jump back and forth between diverse task areas. Key position responsibilities will include maintaining positive relationships with customers and market vendors, as well as clear and responsive communication with Supervisor via
text/email. Successful candidates will be highly independently motivated and able to work autonomously with integrity, attention to detail, and enthusiasm. This is a part-time, hourly position requiring 15-20 hours per week. Final application deadline is May 1, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Monitor market bin resetting.
• Organize and pack market materials for transport to farmers markets.
• Record sales transactions and balance market transactions at the end of each market.
• Assist with day-to-day operation troubleshooting for farmers market programs.
• Transport supplies, materials and equipment for weekly farmers markets and outreach events.
• Maintain market equipment and supplies; ensure timely communication with supervisor regarding equipment repairs and supply orders.
• Personally represent Farm Fresh RI and Harvest Kitchen at markets; understanding our mission and products.

Requirements

• Available to work a flexible schedule including early evening and weekends; Saturdays 7am-2pm a must.
• Outgoing and able to connect with a range of audiences
• Strong interpersonal skills (patience, respect, transparency)
• Willingness and enthusiasm to work in & respond to varying seasonal weather conditions
• Ability to stand for up to 3-4 hours
• Reliable access to a personal vehicle to travel between market sites and transport equipment
• Must possess a valid driver's license
• Basic math and accounting skills
• Able to bend and lift loads up to 50 lbs

Preferred Skills
Candidates with any of the following skills will be prioritized.

• Spanish speaking or other non-English language skills
• Candidates from Providence, Pawtucket, and Central Falls
• Strong Microsoft Office and Google Suite skills

Hours & Benefits

• Part-time position: 15-20 hours a week — Saturday morning (7am-2pm) is required, and weekday evening shifts may be required June-November.
• $14/hour plus mileage

To Apply

• Please send your resume to Sean Kontos at harvestkitchen@farmfreshri.org with subject line “HK Markets Associate Application”
• Final application deadline May 1, 2021; applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
• No phone calls or drop-ins please.

Since 2004, Farm Fresh Rhode Island has been providing affordable markets selling local, fresh foods in low-income neighborhoods. We value increasing healthy food access while at the same time maintaining fair prices to farmers and transparency around local food systems. All markets managed by Farm Fresh RI accept and encourage the use of federal food assistance programs.

Position Summary
Farm Fresh RI is seeking committed and reliable team-players to join our team as Farmers Market Associates. We are looking for one or more dedicated team members who will assist in managing the Fresh Bucks table at a number of farmers markets for the full 2021 outdoor season, including Broad Street, Neutaconkanut Park, Central Falls, Goddard Park, and South Kingstown farmers markets.

Farm Fresh RI staff will train the Market Associate on tasks necessary to be a part of the Summer Market Team. We seek someone who is detail oriented, responsible, and passionate about contributing to increasing access to healthy food in Rhode Island. Applicants must commit to fulfilling the entire market season and provide their own transportation of market equipment to and from market sites and the Farm Fresh office. Staff will be reimbursed for mileage.

The Market Associate working at the South Kingstown farmers market will keep market materials at their home and will be responsible for submitting data to Farm Fresh RI each week.

Hours

• Part-time, seasonal positions. Applicants staff single or multiple markets for the season. (7-24 hours a week depending on availability and interest)
• Most markets run July-October. Additional hours will be required for training and season debriefs. Some markets start in May and June.
• Potential for additional hours to assist with market outreach and events.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide transportation for market equipment from Providence office to market sites.
• Set up and break down market tent and table.
• Assist with vendor setup as needed.
• Enforce market rules and regulations with all vendors and customers.
• Run card machine for credit card and EBT customers and distribute Fresh Bucks tokens for transactions.
• Keep record of transactions and balance the market paperwork at end of market.
• Collect Fresh Bucks tokens from vendors at end of market and write receipts.
• Maintain positive equitable relations with all market vendors and customers.
• Work with market volunteers and interns when necessary.

Education, Knowledge, Experience Required

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Multi-lingual proficiency preferred (Spanish speaking required for Neutaconkanut Park and Central Falls locations).
• Interest in nutrition, public health, and environmental issues preferred.
• Able to bend and lift loads up to 50 pounds.
• Must have access to reliable transportation for transporting market equipment to and from program sites across the state.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Critical Skills

• Interpersonal skills, sociable personality
• Basic math and accounting
• Detail oriented

Compensation

• Starting $14.50- $16/hr
• Mileage Reimbursement

To Apply

• Please apply online.
• Application deadline: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
• No phone calls or drop-ins please.

Farmers markets play an important role in increasing the availability and access to local foods. They offer more places for farmers and producers to sell their products, and invite the local community to gather over a variety of delicious, fresh foods in their own neighborhoods. We currently operate 7 farmers markets in RI located primarily in areas with limited access to fresh food.

To help make healthy, local options available to low-income shoppers, Farm Fresh RI runs a nutrition incentive program called Bonus Bucks that increases the value of SNAP benefits at farmers markets, CSAs, and farm stands. Today the Bonus Bucks systems offers a dollar-for-dollar match to SNAP shoppers for the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables. Since 2007, Farm Fresh RI has helped facilitate over $950,000 in SNAP benefits spent with RI farmers and producers and over $600,000 in Bonus Bucks.

Farm Fresh RI also provides support to farmers market customers, vendors and statewide market managers about how to use other federal food assistance programs at RI markets in addition to SNAP, such as WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers.

COVID-19 Response
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent job losses, Rhode Island has experienced the highest level of food insecurity recorded in 20 years. The Rhode Island Community Food Bank reported that in 2020 one in four households lacked adequate access to food. The Farmers Market Outreach Associate will play a pivotal role in getting the word out about Bonus Bucks to SNAP recipients.

We are prepared to be as cautious as necessary in the execution of this outreach effort, following all safety guidelines set forth by the State. Our employee’s safety is of utmost importance.

Position Summary
Farm Fresh RI is seeking a part-time Farmers Market Outreach Associate. The Associate will help to ensure communities have awareness of Farm Fresh RI-run farmers markets and understand how to use SNAP and other nutrition incentives at the market. They will help in developing and executing outreach strategies that combine online communications to local organizations with in-person community outreach efforts and volunteer organization . Covid-19 safety protocols will be prioritized at all times. This is a part-time, seasonal position. May through August, 2021.

Primary Responsibilities
Key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Engaging with community partners involved with increasing food access in the cities of Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and Woonsocket
• Expanding communications around how to use SNAP/WIC/Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program voucher benefits and Bonus Bucks at farmers markets
• Participating in building up-to-date lists of RI farmers markets, farm stands, CSAs and home delivery services who accept SNAP benefits and Bonus Bucks
• Researching and expanding Farm Fresh RI’s presence in relevant online communities and groups
• Assisting the Communications Director with sharing information/resources on social media
• Working with Farm Fresh RI’s Volunteer Coordinator to schedule volunteer help to share flyers and posters with community partners or in public spaces
• Preparing and executing routes and material packets to implement grassroots outreach tactics, such as poster hanging, in neighborhoods where Farm Fresh-run farmers markets are held
• Managing groups of volunteers to help execute the above

Essential Skills

• Professional and practical communications skills (written and verbal)
• Strong interpersonal skills (patience, respect, transparency)
• Outgoing and able to connect with a range of audiences
• Experience working in diverse community settings
• Attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and self-motivate to complete tasks
• Comfortability working as part of a remote team, with some in-person duties
• Ability to manage and motivate volunteers to facilitate grassroots activities (e.g., once a week in-person materials prep and volunteer assignments)
• Commitment to Farm Fresh RI mission and values
• Interest in local food systems and food justice
• Available to work a flexible schedule including some evening and weekends
• Must have access to reliable transportation to and from Farm Fresh RI in Providence

Preferred Skills
Candidates meeting any of the following criteria will be prioritized.

• Spanish speaking or non-English language skills
• Candidates from Providence, Pawtucket and Central Falls
• Knowledge and experience with community outreach and/or volunteer organizing
• Comfortability with computers and online tools
• Exceptional communication skills for reaching diverse audiences

Hours & Benefits

• Part-time position mid-May through August, 10-15 hours a week, flexible schedule
• Some evenings and weekends may be required
• Mileage Reimbursement for work-related use of personal vehicle
• $15.50 - $17.50/hour

To Apply

• Please send cover letters and resumes Attn: Cara Mitchell to cara@farmfreshri.org with the subject line “Farmers Market Outreach Associate Application,” or apply online.
• Final Application deadline: April 30; applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
• No phone calls or drop-ins please.

Hope’s Harvest RI, fiscally sponsored by Farm Fresh RI, seeks an outgoing and energetic Food Rescue Summer AmeriCorps VISTA with demonstrated initiative and clear organizational communication skills. Hope’s Harvest RI is a gleaning project that mobilizes volunteers to rescue food from local farms that would otherwise go to waste and distributes it to local hunger relief agencies. This position offers a unique opportunity to refine and implement a system for rescuing fruits and vegetables specifically from farms in RI, for distribution to food insecure individuals and families via hunger relief agencies, and recruiting volunteers to participate in ongoing food rescue activities. This is a 10-week position starting on June 21 and ending August 27, 2021. The deadline to apply is 4/30/2021.

About the work: One in four Rhode Islanders rely on the emergency food system to meet their basic needs, a sharp increase since the previous year. In 2020, Hope’s Harvest RI rescued over 255,000 lbs of fresh, nutrient dense fruits and vegetables from local farms and delivered it to over 10,000 individuals a month via our network of emergency food providers. In 2021-22, we expect that Hope’s Harvest RI will rescue and distribute even more produce to our neighbors in need, while also supporting a robust network of volunteers and farms that make this work possible. Hope’s Harvest RI is fiscally sponsored by Farm Fresh RI, a food hub with many different programs working together to build a stronger food system in Rhode Island.

Position Responsibilities

• Refine and implement a system for rescuing surplus food from local farms throughout RI and distributing it to food insecure individuals and families via a network of hunger relief agencies.
• Recruit and train volunteers to assist with ongoing food rescue operations, increasing the capacity of Hope’s Harvest program to expand and increase number of food rescue trips and pounds rescued.
• Maintain volunteer recruitment materials for in-person events, including brochures, displays, and contests/giveaways.
• Help create and improve on gleaning education for volunteers and community members – including but not limited to crop knowledge, history of the land, hunger relief, and farm systems – to help increase literacy and awareness.
• Schedule and conduct volunteer recruitment online, or through in-person events (while maintaining COVID safety).
• Conduct follow up with new volunteers, including welcome communications, training, and orientation as necessary.

Essential Functions

• Excellent professional communication skills (written and verbal)
• Great attention to detail
• Self starter and ability to maintain a self-motivating attitude
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team
• Excellent time-management skills
• Ability to think, react, iterate, and redirect in a fast-paced environment
• Comfort and facility driving large vehicles (training available)
• Must be able to lift 50 lb.
• Ability to prioritize and handle a variety of assignments simultaneously in a vibrant work environment
• Willingness to work hands-on in various environments (outdoors at markets, inside at office)
• Some experience with farming or gardening in a professional capacity (internships, academic learning/service or consistent volunteer work on a farm or in a community garden setting would qualify)

Non-Essential Functions

• Experience with CRM (Salesforce,) and/or training a plus
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite preferred
• Spanish skills or other language skills are a plus
• Background in adult education, leading volunteer/tour groups, and/or organizing service work teams.

About AmeriCorps VISTA
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs, made up of three primary programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members bring passion and perseverance where the need is greatest: to organizations that help eradicate poverty. AmeriCorps VISTA members serve as a catalyst for change, living and working alongside community members to meet our nation’s most pressing challenges and advance local solutions.

Terms of Service & Hours Requirements
Summer AmeriCorps VISTA members must commit to a full week, approx. 36-40 hour/week AmeriCorps full-time service term from June 21 to August 27, 2021, totaling 10 weeks of service.

Primary working hours will be Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm, with ability to work early evenings or weekends as needed. Member schedules can be flexible, and they will be in regular conversation about schedules with their direct supervisor.

Members will be given the opportunity to fulfill all service hour requirements while also allowing for holidays, sick leave, and PTO. Missed hours can be made up on site or off site depending on supervisor approval. All Members must participate in AmeriCorps national, state and local service projects as a part of their service term.

Orientation, Training & Evaluation
Members will receive one-on-one trainings on AmeriCorps program impacts, history, and prohibited activities, as well as an orientation to local food systems and food justice topics addressed by Hope’s Harvest RI programs. Training will not exceed more than 20% of the members total service hours completed.

All members will have opportunities for weekly one on one check-ins with supervisors as well as a six month and end of service performance evaluation. Members will be responsible for submitting weekly timesheets and monthly program narrative reports.

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Benefits

• Living allowance of $513.94 paid every two weeks
• Choice between Segal $1342.86 education award or $345.80 cash payment at the completion of service term.
• Mileage reimbursement

To Apply
This is a 10 week position starting on June 21 and ending August 27, 2021. The deadline to apply is 4/30/2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

• Go to target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do and click “Search Listings.” For the search, select the “Rhode Island” and “AmeriCorps VISTA” options.
• Scroll until you find this position, click on it, and “Apply Now.”
• Submit your application including two references.
• No calls or drop-ins please.

Applications must be submitted through this AmeriCorps VISTA site. Farm Fresh Rhode Island and Hope's Harvest RI cannot accept applications directly.

About Hope's Harvest RI
Hope’s Harvest RI and its fiscal sponsor Farm Fresh Rhode Island are committed to equal opportunity in employment. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We’ve adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of racially, economically, and culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better outcomes for all. We are actively seeking candidates who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work. Farm Fresh Rhode Island is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Farm Fresh RI seeks a Farmers Market Food Access Summer Associate VISTA with demonstrated initiative and clear organizational communication skills to support utilization of USDA food assistance programs at Farm Fresh RI farmers markets. They will ensure that our Farmers Markets team works with our community partners to extend greater access to healthy, locally grown food throughout the communities that are home to Farm Fresh RI markets. An integral part of Farm Fresh RI, the farmers market program works on the belief that the root cause of hunger is poverty, and therefore increasing local economic opportunities must be a part of hunger relief solutions. This position offers an opportunity to operate Farm Fresh’s Fresh Bucks initiative at local farmers markets, creating more jobs and healthier, more resilient communities. Members must commit to a full-time 10 weeks of service, from June 21 to August 28, 2021. The application deadline is April 30, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Process credit, debit, and SNAP/EBT customer transactions at farmers markets.
• Record customer transactions at farmers market welcome tables.
• Assist in the assembly of statewide data about SNAP use at farmers markets.
• Work with Farm Fresh staff to support preparation of materials to administer Farm Fresh’s Bonus Bucks for SNAP/EBT shoppers.
• Support data tracking and program performance measurement systems.
• Provide outreach to new farmers market sites and populations, and support organizational communication efforts.
• Manage farmers market volunteers.

Essential Skills

• Must have a high school diploma/GED. College degree or working toward one is preferred but not required.
• Be at least 17 years old.
• Must be a US Citizen, U.S. National, or Permanent Resident and be able to provide documentation of citizenship.
• Must be willing to undergo a National Criminal History Background Check.
• Must be willing to work occasional nights and weekends; schedules are determined by program needs and will be worked out with the supervisor.
• Must be able to build relationships with people from varied cultural, economic, educational, racial, and religious backgrounds.
• Must uphold AmeriCorps state and national branding and uniform standards.
• Self-starter and have the ability to maintain a self-motivating attitude.
• Able to collaborate and work as part of a team.
• Able to think, react, iterate, and redirect in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent professional communication skills (written and verbal).
• Great attention to detail.
• Excellent time-management skills.
• Ability to prioritize and handle a variety of assignments simultaneously in a vibrant work environment.
• Willingness to work hands-on in various environments (outdoors at markets, inside at office).
• Able to bend and lift loads up to 50 pounds.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation — mileage reimbursement will be provided for personal vehicle use.

Non-Essential Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite preferred.
• Spanish skills or other language skills are a plus.

About AmeriCorps VISTA
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs, made up of three primary programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members bring passion and perseverance where the need is greatest: to organizations that help eradicate poverty. AmeriCorps VISTA members serve as a catalyst for change, living and working alongside community members to meet our nation’s most pressing challenges and advance local solutions.

Terms of Service & Hours Requirements
AmeriCorps VISTA Members must commit to a full-time 10 weeks, approx. 36-38hour/week AmeriCorps service term from June 21, 2021 to August 28, 2021.

Members must have the ability to work early evenings or weekends, as needed, for certain farmers market days with advance notice. Member schedules can be flexible with prior approval by supervisors.

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Benefits

• Bi-weekly living allowance of $513.94
• $1342.86 education award upon completion of service to help pay for college, graduate school, or vocational training, or to repay student loans. Or $345.80 cash payment at the end of service.
• Student loan forbearance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities

To Apply
This is a temporary, full-time position starting June 21, 2021. Application deadline is April 30, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis..

• To apply: please go to https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do and click “Search Listings.” For the search, select the “Rhode Island” and “AmeriCorps VISTA” options.
• Scroll until you find this position, click on it, and “Apply Now.”
• Submit your application including two references.

Applications must be submitted through this AmeriCorps VISTA site. Farm Fresh Rhode Island cannot accept applications directly.

This position offers a unique opportunity to improve the health and wellbeing of seniors, children, and adults across Rhode Island through food literacy and life-skills education at farmers markets, school meal sites, libraries, and other community settings. This is a 10-week position starting on June 21 and ending on August 28, 2021. Application deadline is April 30, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare materials and lessons for programs.
• Assist Community Education team with program implementation for youth, families, and seniors.
• Participate in program performance measurement process through the administration of pre- and post-surveys to program participants.
• Collect quality data regarding effectiveness of program activities and conduct data entry weekly.
• Provide on-site support to program participants during recruitment and program implementation.
• Monitor program participation and evaluation.
• Review attendance and tracking sheets weekly to inform Community Education team of potential for enrollment capacity.

Skills Required

• Excellent professional communication skills (written and verbal).
• Great attention to detail.
• Self starter and ability to maintain a self-motivating attitude.
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team.
• Excellent time-management skills.
• Ability to think, react, iterate, and redirect in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to prioritize and handle a variety of assignments simultaneously in a vibrant work environment.
• Spanish skills or other language skills are a plus.
• Good customer service skills and willingness to engage with adults and children.
• Willingness to work hands-on in various environments (outdoors at markets, inside at office).
• Able to bend and lift loads up to 50 pounds.
• Must have a valid drivers license and access to reliable transportation. Mileage reimbursement will be provided for personal vehicle use.

About AmeriCorps VISTA
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs, made up of three primary programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members bring passion and perseverance where the need is greatest: to organizations that help eradicate poverty. AmeriCorps VISTA members serve as a catalyst for change, living and working alongside community members to meet our nation’s most pressing challenges and advance local solutions.

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Benefits

• Bi-weekly living allowance of $513.94
• $ 1343 Segal Education Award or $345 cash payment at end of term
• Mileage Reimbursement

To Apply
This is a 10-week position starting June 21, 2021 and ending August 28, 2021. The deadline to apply is April 30, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

• To apply: please go to: http://www.americorps.gov/about/programs/vista.asp and review AmeriCorps VISTA information on this site.
• Then go to https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do and click “Search Listings.” For the search, select the “Rhode Island” and “AmeriCorps VISTA” options.
• Scroll until you find this position, click on it, and “Apply Now.”
• Submit your application including two references.

Applications must be submitted through this AmeriCorps VISTA site, Farm Fresh Rhode Island cannot accept applications directly.

Farm Fresh Rhode Island seeks an outgoing and enthusiastic Farmers Market Food Security AmeriCorps VISTA with demonstrated initiative and clear organizational communication skills to increase awareness and understanding of how to use USDA food assistance programs to support local agriculture and food businesses. An integral part of Farm Fresh Rhode Island’s team, the farmers market program believes that the root cause of hunger is poverty — and therefore increasing local economic opportunities must be a part of hunger relief solutions. This position offers a unique opportunity to educate businesses and social service agencies about how to invest federal dollars in local economies and agriculture, creating more jobs and healthier, more resilient communities. This position requires a one-year commitment to begin June 7, 2021. Application deadline extended to April 30, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support efforts to enhance capacity for farmers markets, CSAs, and farm stands that accept USDA food assistance programs.
• Identify strengths and challenges for farmers currently accepting USDA food assistance programs.
• Update trainings for farmers and market managers on facilitating USDA food assistance programs onsite.
• Update toolkits and printed resources for farmers and market managers on facilitating USDA food assistance programs onsite.
• Foster networking across outlets currently utilizing USDA food assistance programs at farmers markets, CSAs, and farmstands
• Review Farm Fresh RI farmers market outreach sites to identify new partnership and outreach opportunities with a focus on partner social service agencies.
• Develop outreach and awareness presentations to foster engagement in the concept of using USDA food assistance programs to support local agriculture.
• Pilot outreach presentations for local social service agencies, and evaluate participant awareness and overall effectiveness.
• Pilot volunteer delivery of fresh produce to homebound older adults using Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers.
• Review current Farm Fresh RI strategies for recruiting and sustaining volunteers, and apply them to farmers market program volunteer development.
• Enhance Farm Fresh RI volunteer onboarding practices to foster volunteer engagement in farmers market support activities.
• Consistently engage with community stakeholders to encourage volunteer participation in farmers market activities.
• Create how-to guide for managing volunteers in outreach and farmers market programs.

Skills Required

• Excellent professional communication skills (written and verbal)
• Great attention to detail
• Self-starter and ability to maintain a self-motivating attitude
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team
• Excellent time-management skills
• Ability to think, react, iterate, and redirect in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to prioritize and handle a variety of assignments simultaneously in a vibrant work environment
• Spanish or other language skills a plus
• Willingness to work hands-on in various environments (outdoors at markets, inside at office)
• Able to bend and lift loads up to 50 pounds
• Must have a valid drivers license and access to reliable transportation (Mileage reimbursement will be provided for personal vehicle use.)

About AmeriCorps VISTA
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs, made up of three primary programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members bring passion and perseverance where the need is greatest: to organizations that help eradicate poverty. AmeriCorps VISTA members serve as a catalyst for change, living and working alongside community members to meet our nation’s most pressing challenges and advance local solutions.

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Benefits

• Bi-weekly living allowance of $513.94
• $400 monthly rent credit
• Monthly bus pass
• Student loan deferment
• Mileage reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• CNCS health benefit & childcare assistance
• $6,345 Segal Education Award upon completion of service to help pay for college, graduate school, or vocational training, or to repay student loans

To Apply
This is a full-year position starting June 7, 2021. Application deadline is April 30, Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

• To apply: please go to: http://www.americorps.gov/about/programs/vista.asp and review AmeriCorps VISTA information on this site.
• Then go to https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do and click “Search Listings.” For the search, select the “Rhode Island” and “AmeriCorps VISTA” options.
• Scroll until you find this position, click on it, and “Apply Now.”
• Submit your application including two references.

Applications must be submitted through this AmeriCorps VISTA site, Farm Fresh Rhode Island cannot accept applications directly.

Farm Fresh Rhode Island seeks an articulate and organized Volunteer Coordinator AmeriCorps VISTA with demonstrated initiative and strong logistical and communications skills to assist programs organization-wide in engaging, qualifying, and retaining reliable volunteers. As an integral part of the Farm Fresh RI team, this person will be responsible for understanding and communicating our needs to potential volunteers, creating strategies to attract and recruit new volunteers, implementing and improving on existing procedures for managing volunteer interest and scheduling shifts, facilitating virtual trainings, developing tactics for thanking and retaining volunteers, and generally being ready to problem-solve as the needs of volunteers and our programs evolve and shift with the seasons.

This position offers a unique opportunity to increase community engagement through volunteer recruitment, training, management, appreciation and retention to help Farm Fresh RI achieve its mission of farm vitality and food security. Members must commit to a full year of service, from June 7, 2021, to June 7, 2022. Deadline to apply is April 30, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist programs organization-wide in engaging, qualifying, and retaining reliable volunteers.
• Develop strategies to reach and recruit new people to join in volunteering.
• Be responsible for understanding and communicating Farm Fresh needs to potential volunteers in monthly e-newsletter.
• Work with Director of Communications to incorporate volunteer-related messaging on social media and in other communications vehicles.
• Implement procedures for managing volunteer interest and work with program managers to connect volunteers with matching opportunities program-wide.
• Improve overall volunteer management processes to create a sustainable, ongoing pipeline of volunteers for the organization.
• Act as primary point of contact for volunteers: answering questions, scheduling shifts with program managers, and facilitating onboarding and hours reporting.
• Perform initial screenings and orientation, enhance and facilitate virtual educational and training materials.
• Develop new tactics for thanking and retaining volunteers long-term.
• Work with shifting needs to keep the volunteer program robust as our work changes with the seasons.

Essential Skills

• Must have a high school diploma/GED. College degree (or working toward one) preferred but not required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of position commencement.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or Permanent Resident and be able to provide documentation of citizenship.
• Must be able to build relationships with people from varied cultural, economic, educational, racial, and religious backgrounds.
• Excellent professional communication skills (written and verbal)
• Focused attention to detail and administrative acuity
• Desire work in a self-directed environment, and ability to maintain self-motivation
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team, even while working remotely
• Excellent time-management and reporting skills
• Ability to think, react, iterate, and redirect in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient with Google Docs or similar word processing applications
• Ability to prioritize and handle a variety of assignments simultaneously in a vibrant work environment

About AmeriCorps VISTA
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs, made up of three primary programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members bring passion and perseverance where the need is greatest: to organizations that help eradicate poverty. AmeriCorps VISTA members serve as a catalyst for change, living and working alongside community members to meet our nation’s most pressing challenges and advance local solutions.

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Benefits

• Bi-weekly living allowance of $513.94
• $400 monthly rent credit
• Monthly bus pass
• Student loan deferment
• Mileage reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• CNCS health benefit & childcare assistance
• $6,345 Segal Education Award upon completion of service to help pay for college, graduate school, or vocational training, or to repay student loans

To Apply
Applications are due by April 30, 2021, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

• To apply, please go to: http://www.americorps.gov/about/programs/vista.asp and review the AmeriCorps VISTA information on that site.
• Then go to https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do and click “Search Listings.”
  • For the search, select the “Rhode Island” and “AmeriCorps VISTA” options.
  • Scroll until you find this position, click on it, and click “Apply Now.”
  • Submit your application including two references.

*Applications must be submitted through this AmeriCorps VISTA site. Farm Fresh Rhode Island cannot accept applications directly.

Farm Fresh Rhode Island seeks an innovative and energetic Farm to Food Pantry AmeriCorps VISTA with demonstrated initiative, strong organization, and outstanding communication skills to increase capacity of Farm Fresh Rhode Island’s to best serve local Food Pantries and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) shoppers in accessing healthful locally sourced and produced food. Market Mobile is Farm Fresh’s local food distribution platform that aggregates products across a variety of local and regional farms and food producers in a way that allows them to receive a fair price for their products while reaching new markets. Our Market Mobile program is also able to accept SNAP benefits, and Farm Fresh fundraises to provide a 50% discount on fresh fruits and vegetables purchased through the platform for SNAP shoppers.

This position offers a unique opportunity to develop new programs within our organization supporting food pantry and SNAP shoppers while streamlining systems so that Farm Fresh can broaden our reach to community members who would not otherwise access these important benefits. Members must commit to a full year of service, from May 10, 2021, to May 9, 2022. Deadline to apply is April 30, 2021. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Research national best practices in connecting local farmers and producers to food pantry and meal distribution sites.
• Collaborate with the Farm Direct Food Security AmeriCorps VISTA to align SNAP-matching programs operated between Market Mobile and Farm Fresh’s Farmers Markets program.
• Develop systems and tools to integrate local food pantry deliveries made by Farm Fresh via the Market Mobile program.
• Support customer service troubleshooting for SNAP shoppers and Food Pantry clients placing orders.
• Assist in tracking and communicating Farm to Food Pantry purchase impacts.
• Enhance the ordering and payment processes for food pantries and SNAP customers to access locally sourced food options through Market Mobile.
• Investigate and address barriers that prevent healthy food access through Market Mobile, such as language and access to technology.
• Pilot new outreach strategies, systems, and materials to increase the amount of SNAP spent through Market Mobile.
• Evaluate satisfaction level and barriers for food pantry partners and SNAP shoppers accessing food via Market Mobile.
• Document systems and tools into Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training activities.

Essential Skills

• Must have a high school diploma/GED. College degree (or working toward one) preferred but not required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of position commencement.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or Permanent Resident and be able to provide documentation of citizenship.
• Must be able to build relationships with people from varied cultural, economic, educational, racial, and religious backgrounds.
• Excellent professional communication skills (written and verbal)
• Desire to work in a self-directed environment, and ability to maintain self-motivation
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team, even while working remotely
• Excellent time-management and reporting skills
• Ability to think, react, iterate, and redirect in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient with Google Docs or similar word processing applications
• Ability to prioritize and handle a variety of assignments simultaneously in a vibrant work environment
• Spanish or other language skills a plus
• Willingness to work hands-on to pilot programs within the Farm Fresh packhouse
• Must be able to bend and lift loads up to 50 pounds

About AmeriCorps VISTA
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs, made up of three primary programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members bring passion and perseverance where the need is greatest: to organizations that help eradicate poverty. AmeriCorps VISTA members serve as a catalyst for change, living and working alongside community members to meet our nation’s most pressing challenges and advance local solutions.

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Benefits

• Bi-weekly living allowance of $479.08
• Student loan deferment
• Mileage reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• CNCS health benefit & childcare assistance
• $6,195 Segal Education Award upon completion of service to help pay for college, graduate school, or vocational training, or to repay student loans

To Apply
Applications are due by April 30, 2021, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

• To apply, please go to: http://www.americorps.gov/about/programs/vista.asp and review the AmeriCorps VISTA information on that site.
• Then go to https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do and click “Search Listings.”
  • For the search, select the “Rhode Island” and “AmeriCorps VISTA” options.
  • Scroll until you find this position, click on it, and click “Apply Now.”
  • Submit your application including two references.

*Applications must be submitted through this AmeriCorps VISTA site. Farm Fresh Rhode Island cannot accept applications directly.