Albany, GA – Flint River Fresh proudly announces the launch of its newest youth development program - New Fresh Urban Farmers (NFUF). This innovative program combines agriculture, mentorship, and other introductory work experience through a paid work-based internship with Flint River Fresh. Interns contribute to the mission of Flint River Fresh through developing healthier and more resilient community food systems. Applications are open to Dougherty County high school students from now through January 3, 2025.
NFUF program’s core focus concentrates on preparing youth to flourish in sustainable agriculture industry jobs and gain exposure to new foods through culinary arts, explore entrepreneurship, and understanding the benefits of servant leadership. “As an educator and partner of Flint River Fresh, I have witnessed the transformative impact agricultural programs like the New Fresh Urban Farmers can have on young people. This initiative provides an incredible opportunity for Dougherty County youth to develop essential technical skills in sustainable agriculture and grow as leaders who are prepared to make a meaningful difference in their communities. Programs like NFUF are vital for empowering our students with the confidence, knowledge, and hands-on experience they need to thrive in an evolving workforce and contribute to a healthier, more resilient future,” says Megan Verner, CTAE Agribusiness Instructor at 4C Academy.
The goal is to equip Dougherty County youth with valuable, transferable life skills that enhance their confidence and competence as they prepare to enter a competitive workforce. Hired interns will receive direct instruction and guidance from experts to develop in-depth technical skills in small-scale farming, food production, and value-added processing. Additionally, NFUF participants will have opportunities to gain experience implementing community engagement activities that enhance sustainable food security, and networking proficiencies that bolster soft skills and business acumen.
The NFUF Spring Internship program begins in January and ends in May, giving interns a broad range of hands-on seasonal food production and distribution experiences. NFUF trainees will commit two Saturday each month and some after-school hours to internship activities. These activities include volunteer activities at urban farms, hands-on work at school gardens, community food distribution events, and more.
The NFUF Program is supported through a USDA Urban Agriculture and Innovation Grant as well as sponsorship from the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District (the District).
“The objective of the New Fresh Urban Farmers program aligns so well with the mission of the District -- to foster conservation, innovation, and partnerships,” says the Districts Executive Director Perri Cooper, who also serves as an ex-officio Board member of Flint River Fresh. “Sponsoring a student in this program was a great way for us to continue to support a wonderful community partner in Flint River Fresh.”
On average, NFUF interns will earn $10 per hour and work eight to twelve hours weekly. Applications are accessible online at flintriverfresh.org/nfuf.
The NFUF program is funded by the USDA Urban Agriculture and Innovation Production grant [NR233A750005G011].
Flint River Fresh is a 501(c)(3) organization that aims to make fresh, locally-grown produce accessible and affordable for people throughout the Flint River Region while empowering community and youth through education and outreach opportunities. Visit www.flintriverfresh.org to learn more.