Join Apprenticeship Program in Florida at an Organic Farm

• Exchange hours per day
  5
• Days off per Week
  1
• Accomodation Provided
  Yes
• Meals Included
  Vegetables or Fruits Provided
• Minimum Commitment (In Days)
  180
• Amenities
  Wifi, Fridge, Garden, Kitchen
• Types of Help & Learning Opportunities
  Animal Care, Farm Help, Gardening & Planting, General Maintenance, Event Help & Guest Entertainment, Kitchen & Bar Help

About Sweetwater Organic Community Farm:

Sweetwater Organic Community Farm was founded in 1995 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering community engagement through urban organic agriculture and environmental education. Located on 6 acres along Sweetwater Creek in the Town ‘n’ Country neighborhood of Tampa, Florida, the farm serves as a vital green space and educational hub for the surrounding community in Hillsborough County. Since its establishment, Sweetwater has focused on building connections among community members, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and providing access to fresh organic produce.

The farm operates a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Membership program, allowing local residents to receive a share of its harvest, while also hosting the Sweetwater Sunday Farmers’ Market, which welcomes the public to purchase fresh, organic vegetables, herbs, and other goods. In addition to these initiatives, Sweetwater offers a variety of educational programs, including field trips for visiting groups, workshops, farm tours, and seasonal events. These programs aim to engage individuals of all ages in hands-on activities that explore nature, teach sustainable practices, and demonstrate the importance of land stewardship. Through these efforts, Sweetwater creates an inclusive environment where people come together to learn, share, and grow.

Community involvement is a cornerstone of Sweetwater’s mission. The farm encourages participation through volunteer opportunities that allow individuals to get involved in the day-to-day operations, learn about organic farming, and connect with others who share similar interests. By providing a space for collaboration, education, and enjoyment of nature, Sweetwater Organic Community Farm not only supplies fresh organic food to countless Tampa Bay residents but also fosters a sense of belonging and community spirit among its visitors. This commitment to building community from the ground up reflects Sweetwater’s vision of nurturing relationships that support both individuals and the environment.

About Join Apprenticeship Program in Florida at an Organic Farm:

The apprenticeship opportunity at Sweetwater Organic Farm offers hands-on educational experience for individuals eager to learn about organic farming. Typically running from September/October to April/May, apprentices can live on the farm, work closely with experienced farmers, and engage in the cultivation of certified organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers. They will develop essential skills through rigorous practical work, contributing directly to the farm’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and Sunday Market, all while enjoying the rewards of their labor in the form of fresh produce.

Duties and Responsibilities:
– Participate in animal care activities
– Assist with pest identification and management
– Help with land and infrastructure maintenance
– Engage in field fertility practices
– Set up for markets or special events
– Learn harvesting techniques
– Assist with irrigation installation and repair
– Participate in post-harvest processes and storage
– Help with greenhouse and hardening shed activities
– Set up and maintain CSA shares
– Get involved in seeding, record keeping, and planting
– Understand organic certification operations and protocols
– Manage weed control and compost production
– Support volunteer management activities

Benefits:
– Live in the farm’s Apprentice house, which includes utilities and internet access
– Work approximately 20-25 hours per week
– Gain valuable skills in sustainable farming practices
– Experience personal growth through hands-on learning and commitment to community agriculture
– Opportunities for cultural immersion through interaction with like-minded individuals
– Receive fresh organic vegetables as part of their experience

Additional Details:
– Length of stay: September/October through April/May
– Hours per day: Approximately 4-5 hours per day, depending on the season and tasks
– Days off per week: Generally 1-2 days off per week
– Accommodations: Shared house with private sleeping areas, kitchen, bathroom, and living space
– Logistics: Volunteers will be coordinated by the farm staff for specific projects
– Deposits: Information on deposits (if any) may be provided upon application submission.

Contact Details

Exchange Type

• Home for Time

Regions

• United States

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