Become a JFS Educator for 2009 Alternative Break Trips at Farms Across the U.S.

Program Leader Description
Program Leaders will staff Jewish Farm School service learning programs, which provide opportunities for teams of college students to participate in on-the-farm service in partnership with community farms throughout the United States.  The program will include hands-on farming and natural building, cooking, crafting and learning about sustainability and food systems through the lens of Jewish ethics and values.  Each program lasts eight days, and is staffed by two JFS Program Leaders.  

Program Leaders will:

• Create community among program participants
• Facilitate farming and building projects throughout the day with guidance from the host site and farmer
• Lead daily learning and reflection sessions using the JFS service-learning model
• Facilitate a participant-led Shabbat experience
• Challenge and inspire participants to see themselves as social change agents
• Foster relationships between the host farm and the participant group
• Oversee the service project and on-site logistics, including meals and health and safety issues
• Attend the training seminar in Philadelphia in January or February (date TBD)

Qualifications

• Desire to grow and develop as a Jewish social change educator

• Past experience in informal and experiential education
• Strong knowledge of and experience in teaching Jewish texts and values, and/or political and social issues
• Demonstrated leadership and skill in managing group dynamics and community building
• Passion for exploring social justice and food issues through a Jewish lens, and for developing this passion in others
• Ability to inspire and develop leadership in others
• Strong organizational and logistical skills
• Knowledge of environmental issues
• Experience with farming/gardening and cooking
• Ability to handle stressful situations including medical emergencies.

Commitment  
Program Leaders will staff at least two trips during the program-leading year. The majority of trips take place in March and June.  Program Leaders are required to attend the training seminar.
 
Compensation
$900 per 8-day program.  Shorter or longer programs will be prorated accordingly.  JFS will cover all materials, travel, and other expenses related to the training and program leading.
 
To Apply
Please submit the following materials to simcha@jewishfarmschool.org with “JFS Program Leader” in the subject line:

• Resume with all work, education, volunteer experience and contact information
• 1-2 pages highlighting past leadership experiences, a description of how your Jewish identity and social change intersect and what you feel you will bring to these programs.
• Two references, with contact information
• Your availability to lead trips from January 2009 through December 2009 (list of dates specifically for March and June)

The application process for 2009 Group Leaders is closed.   Please check back with us again for future job postings or send us a copy of your resume to keep on file.