Apprenticeship Opportunities at Seeds of Hope Farm, Ohio

Posted on December 22, 2010 by in Apprenticeship, Farming, Poultry // 0 Comments

Seeds of Hope Farm is currently taking applications for apprentices for the 2011 farming season. Located in Tiffin, Ohio we are situated on the St. Francis community campus. The farm is part of the Franciscan Earth Literacy Center, an environmental education center started by the Sisters of St. Francis in 1994. Seeds of Hope Farm is a small, 20 acre farm, dedicated to the production of quality vegetables and herbs without the use of harmful chemicals. The farm raises pastured broilers during the summer months and has a 100 pastured laying hen operation.

Seeds of Hope Farm markets its products through our CSA program, an-site farm-stand, local farmers markets and sells to area restaurants and nursing homes. Generally about 6 acres is under production with the remainder in pasture and/or cover crop.

In 2011 Seeds of Hope Farm is offering four apprenticeship opportunities. Apprenticeships are generally 40 hours a week, however part-time or 20 hours per week is possible. Apprentices will be expected to be flexible with their time. Some week-end and evening work will be expected. Hours are generally 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. with a 30 minute lunch break. A small stipend of $75 per week is offered. Housing is provided by CSA farm families. Apprentices can also take fresh produce home for their host family or for themselves.

Farming is physically demanding. Apprentices will be expected to get a good night’s rest and come re-freshed and ready to put in a good day’s worth of hard but fun labor. Each day has many opportunities to perform a wide variety of tasks and work with many different people.

Generally apprenticeships are from Mid-May to Mid-August however an apprenticeship can be tailored to fit the individuals need. Apprenticeships are generally accepted from May 1 through September 30, our busiest time of the year.

Apprentices will have the opportunity to be a part of all the enterprises on the farm. From greenhouse production to field work to working at a farmer’s market the opportunities are endless. Skills learned will range from marketing experience to all aspects of operating a small, six acre vegetable, herb, and poultry farm.

For further information please contact Sr. Rita Wienken, production coordinator at: rwienken@sbcglobal.net.