Urban Agri-Leaders ProgramAt — Shift Our Ways Collective
The Urban Agri-Leaders Program is a hands-on learning experience designed to engage students in sustainable urban farming, community building, and food justice. Participants will work alongside the Shift Our Ways Collective team at our EcoHub Backyard Farms, gaining real-world experience in organic agriculture, community outreach, and sustainability practices. Through this program, interns will assist with planting, harvesting, and distributing fresh produce to underserved communities, while learning about culturally relevant food systems, regenerative agriculture, and the importance of equitable access to green spaces.
By the end of the internship, students will: Understand the principles of sustainable urban farming and regenerative agriculture. Develop skills in community engagement and equitable food distribution. Deepen their relationship with their food, and with their land. Explore the intersection of environmental sustainability, food justice, and social equity. Build leadership and teamwork abilities in a collaborative, inclusive environment. This internship empowers young leaders to create meaningful change within their communities and beyond.
The training includes: Orientation & Safety Training: Overview of Shift Our Ways Collective’s mission, programs, and community impact. Farm safety protocols, including proper tool usage, crop handling, and sustainable practices. Urban Farming & Sustainability: Hands-on training in planting, harvesting, and maintaining organic crops. Guidance in regenerative agriculture, soil health, water conservation, and native plant care. Marketing & Advocacy Training: Instruction on effective community outreach, including digital marketing strategies for social media and email campaigns. Advocacy training focused on promoting food justice, environmental equity, and community engagement. Community Engagement Skills: Training in cultural sensitivity and inclusive communication to foster meaningful connections with diverse community members. Techniques for organizing and leading community events and workshops. Workshops with Experts: Free access to in-person workshops led by professionals in Native Plants, Land Restoration, Water Quality, and other environmental topics, broadening students’ knowledge of sustainability and ecological restoration.
Supervised Activities: All tasks are supervised by trained staff or Intern Coordinators to ensure interns perform activities safely and with proper technique. Inclusive Safety Measures: Special accommodations are available to interns who may have physical limitations or specific needs to ensure they can participate fully and safely. Emergency Preparedness: Clearly communicated emergency protocols, including the location of first aid kits and emergency contact numbers. Farm staff are trained in basic first aid and CPR to respond to any incidents promptly.
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 40 | hours per month |