Urban Farm Fellow

Project summary

The California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) is part of a statewide initiative to address and mitigate the effects of climate change. CCAC matches Fellows with organizations to mobilize community members to take direct climate action through education, volunteer mobilization, and assessment focused on urban greening, organic waste diversion and edible food recovery, and wildfire resiliency. This is a climate-focused, workforce development program for emerging climate and environmental leaders.

Opportunity description

Black Thumb Farm (BTF) recognizes an overwhelming need for hands-on job training and food sovereignty in our underserved communities. Our mission is clear: empower historically underserved youth and provide our community with fresh, healthy, locally-grown food. BTF programs are rooted in indigenous farming practices, reconnecting BIPOC youth to their ancestral roots, and instilling a deep sense of stewardship at every step of the farming journey. We strive for holistic restoration, revitalizing the soil while restoring the larger ecosystem - both social and natural - in which the farm exists. We endeavor to be agile, adapting to local environmental concerns such as soil degradation, water availability, and climate variability. We're not just farming; we're preparing our communities to face the challenges of a changing climate head-on. Duties include, but are not limited to: Develop an on-site composting system, in collaboration with our partner LA Compost, to divert approximately 1,000 pounds of organic waste annually. Expand Farm Hands curriculum through tailored skills training that aligns with indigenous farming approach and addresses skill gaps in agriculture. Organize, coordinate, and lead educational community workshops for our Neighborhood Nourishments program. Assist in climate-friendly projects at the farm and school gardens with mulching, enriching soil with compost, and planting and caring for native plants to maximize soil health and retain water. Craft and distribute outreach and recruitment materials at tabling events to promote soil health, urban gardens, and Farm Hands and Neighborhood Nourishment programs. Cultivate a robust coalition of partner organizations to initiate conversations about addressing food inequality and improving land accessibility for historically disadvantaged communities.

Benefits

• $33,600 stipend
• $10,000 education award
• 340 hours of professional development
• Minimum essential healthcare
• Loan forbearance
• Food and childcare assistance (for those eligible)