Position Information

Posted
Mar 20, 2025

Closes
Apr 21, 2025

Description

Duties:

About Project GROWS Project GROWS is a nonprofit educational farm in Augusta County, Virginia with a mission to grow a healthy community by connecting all people to nutritious foods. Our farm stewards a healthy ecosystem that yields nutrient-dense food as well as providing beautiful, engaging natural spaces that promote self-discovery and joy. We provide experiential, hands-on education through summer camps, in-school activities, and mentorship programs. Our team also manages multiple farmers markets that improve food security and contribute to our local food economy. We envision a world with an equitable food system where everyone has the access and knowledge to choose, grow, and enjoy foods that support a healthy life. To learn more, please visit www.projectgrows.org. About Waynesboro Education Farm Summer Camps Project GROWS will manage two three-week summer camps at the Waynesboro Education Farm this year – one for elementary students and one for middle school students – both held at Berkeley Glenn Elementary School. Objectives The Camp Counselor (CC) will work with the Camp Assistant and Farm Education Coordinator to support three weeks of summer camp at the Waynesboro Education Farm, helping to connect children and youth to nutritious foods through farm and project-based learning. The CC will function as a core member of the Project GROWS team, exemplifying an ethic of community, teamwork, personal responsibility, and creative problem-solving in pursuit of the organization’s mission. Through this position, the Camp Counselor will: -Gain experience teaching K-12 students in outdoor settings through project-based methods -Develop skills in teamwork, behavior management, and public speaking -Gain experience leading hands-on activities such as gardening, cooking, and nature exploration -Observe how schools and nonprofits can collaborate to support garden-based education Essential Functions -Program Delivery & Instruction: Assist in leading games, activities, and farm-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity and excitement about food, farming, and the natural world. Contribute to a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for all participants. -Camper Supervision & Behavior Management: Supervise groups of camp participants, supporting behavior management and fostering a positive camp culture through strong relationships and enthusiasm. -Camp Operations & Communication: Assist with basic camp setup, cleanup, and organization. Communicate with supervisors to provide feedback and improve the camper experience.

Requirements:

Core Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Passion for working with children, especially in outdoor settings.
• Strong interest in gardening, nutrition, and/or environmental stewardship.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and upbeat around groups of energetic campers.
• Confidence and excitement to lead large group games, icebreakers, and activities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate effectively with both children and adults.
• Strong work ethic and self-motivated when working independently as well as in a group setting.
• Willingness to learn, ask questions, and follow directions.
• Comfortable accepting and receiving feedback.
• Comfortable working outside during hot, cold, and inclement weather.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• Ability to lift 40+ lbs regularly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leading groups of children and/or youth.
• Experience working in a summer camp setting.
• CPR/First Aid certified (If not already certified, Project GROWS will pay for training)

*While experience working with children and working at camps is helpful, a willingness to work hard, try new things, and improvise is most important! We encourage candidates with limited experience to still apply.

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by their start date (approximately May 12th).
• Because our farm is located in an area without access to reliable public transportation, we recommend that applicants with access to a vehicle apply. In addition, a valid driver’s license is required to fulfill job duties as is a clean driving record, for insurance purposes.
• Because we routinely work with children, background checks are required for final applicants.
• Cell phone communication.

How to apply:

Interested applicants should email their resume, cover letter, and the names and contact information for three professional references to hiring@projectgrows.org.

Additional Information:

In addition to financial compensation, benefits include a share of farm produce.

Salary
$16.50/hr

Hours per week
40

Specific hours
Approximately 7:30am-4:30pm M-F. Occasional hours outside of this range may be necessary.

Duration of position
Ideal Start Date: May 19th, 2025 End Date: June 13th, 2025.

Employer Information

Contact
Price Crenshaw

Email
price@projectgrows.org

Website
www.projectgrows.org

Address
608 Berry Farm Rd., Staunton, VA, 24401