Flint River Fresh program offers paid youth internships

ALBANY – Flint River Fresh has announced the launch of its newest youth development program: New Fresh Urban Farmers. This innovative program combines agriculture, mentorship, and other introductory work experience through a paid work-based internship with Flint River Fresh.

Interns contribute to the mission of the organization through developing healthier and more resilient community food systems. Applications are open to Dougherty County high school students through Jan. 3.

NFUF program’s core focus concentrates on preparing students to flourish in sustainable agriculture industry jobs and gain exposure to new foods through culinary arts, explore entrepreneurship, and understanding the benefits of servant leadership.

“As an educator and partner of Flint River Fresh, I have witnessed the transformative impact agricultural programs like the New Fresh Urban Farmers can have on young people,” Megan Verner, the CTAE agribusiness instructor at Albany’s Commodore Conyers College and Career (4C) Academy, said in a news release. “This initiative provides an incredible opportunity for Dougherty County youths to develop essential technical skills in sustainable agriculture and grow as leaders who are prepared to make a meaningful difference in their communities. Programs like NFUF are vital for empowering our students with the confidence, knowledge and hands-on experience they need to thrive in an evolving work force and contribute to a healthier, more resilient future.”

The goal is to equip Dougherty County youths with valuable, transferable life skills that enhance their confidence and competence as they prepare to enter a competitive work force. Hired interns will receive direct instruction and guidance from experts to develop in-depth technical skills in small-scale farming, food production, and value-added processing. Additionally, NFUF participants will have opportunities to gain experience implementing community engagement activities that enhance sustainable food security, and networking proficiencies that bolster soft skills and business acumen.

The NFUF Spring Internship program begins in January and ends in May, giving interns a broad range of hands-on seasonal food production and distribution experiences. NFUF trainees will commit two Saturday each month and some after-school hours to internship activities, including volunteer activities at urban farms, hands-on work at school gardens, community food distribution events, and more.

The NFUF Program is supported through a USDA Urban Agriculture and Innovation Grant as well as sponsorship from the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District.

“The objective of the New Fresh Urban Farmers program aligns so well with the mission of the District — to foster conservation, innovation, and partnerships,” Flint Soil and Water District Executive Director Perri Cooper, who also serves as an ex-officio board member of Flint River Fresh, said. “Sponsoring a student in this program was a great way for us to continue to support a wonderful community partner in Flint River Fresh.”

On average, NFUF interns will earn $10 per hour and work eight to 12 hours weekly. Applications are accessible online at flintriverfresh.org/nfuf.

Flint River Fresh is a 501(c)(3) organization that aims to make fresh, locally-grown produce accessible and affordable for people throughout the Flint River region while empowering communities and their students through education and outreach opportunities. Visit www.flintriverfresh.org to learn more.

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