Farm Camp Assistant

About Project GROWS

Project GROWS is a nonprofit educational farm in Augusta County, Virginia with a mission to grow a healthy community by connecting all people to nutritious foods. Our farm stewards a healthy ecosystem that yields nutrient-dense food as well as providing beautiful, engaging natural spaces that promote self-discovery and joy. We provide experiential, hands-on education through summer camps, in-school activities, and mentorship programs. Our team also manages multiple farmers markets that improve food security and contribute to our local food economy. We envision a world with an equitable food system where everyone has the access and knowledge to choose, grow, and enjoy foods that support a healthy life. To learn more, please visit www.projectgrows.org.

About Summer Camp Program

Project GROWS summer camps are held at two locations: the Project GROWS Farm in Staunton and the Waynesboro Education Farm at Berkeley Glenn Elementary School in Waynesboro. Across these sites, a total of 7 weeks of camp are offered, serving several groups of students from kindergarten through middle school.

Objectives 

The Camp Assistant (CA) will work with the Farm Education Coordinator and Director of Farm-Based Education & Outreach to support all aspects of the Summer Camp Program, helping to connect children and youth to nutritious foods through farm and project-based learning. The CA will function as a core member of the Project GROWS team, exemplifying an ethic of community, teamwork, personal responsibility, and creative problem-solving in pursuit of the organization’s mission.

Through this position, the Camp Assistant will:

• Learn about the operations and management of a summer camp program
• Gain experience teaching K-12 students in outdoor settings through project-based methods
• Develop leadership and mentorship skills through hands-on experience mentoring junior camp staff, managing behavior, and planning lessons
• Gain experience developing and leading hands-on activities such as gardening, cooking, and nature exploration
• Observe how schools and nonprofits can collaborate to support garden-based education

Essential Functions

• Program Support and Camp Leadership: Assist in planning and executing summer camp programs at both the Waynesboro Education Farm and Project GROWS. Lead games, activities, and farm-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity and excitement about food, farming, and the natural world. Contribute to an inclusive and engaging environment for all participants. 
• Safety, Behavior Management, and Emergency Response: Monitor camper and staff safety, following protocols and responding to emergencies. Practice and support behavior management techniques, fostering a positive camp culture through relationships and enthusiasm. 
• Camp Operations & Administration: Assist with all aspects of camp logistics including setup, cleanup, procuring materials, organization, communications, and recordkeeping/reporting.
• Other Program Support: Provide as needed support for other Project GROWS programs and initiatives including field trips, markets, youth programs, community and special events, etc. 

Core Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Passion for working with children, especially in outdoor settings
• Strong interest in gardening, nutrition, and/or environmental stewardship
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and upbeat around groups of energetic campers
• Confidence and excitement to lead large group games, icebreakers, and activities 
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate effectively with both children and adults
• Strong work ethic and self-motivated when working independently as well as in a group setting
• Willingness to learn, ask questions, and follow directions
• Comfortable accepting and receiving feedback
• Comfortable working outside during hot, cold, and inclement weather
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends
• Ability to lift 40+ lbs regularly

Preferred Qualifications*

• Experience leading groups of children and/or youth
• Experience working in a summer camp setting
• CPR/First Aid certified (If not already certified, Project GROWS will pay for training)

*While experience working with children and working at camps is helpful, a willingness to work hard, try new things, and improvise is most important! We encourage candidates with limited experience to still apply. 

Other Requirements

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by their start date (approximately May 12th)
• Because our farm is located in an area without access to reliable public transportation, we recommend that applicants with access to a vehicle apply. In addition, a valid driver’s license is required to fulfill job duties as is a clean driving record, for insurance purposes
• Because we routinely work with children, background checks are required for final applicants
• Cell phone communication

Compensation

This is a full-time (40hr/week), seasonal summer position, requiring a commitment from approximately May 12th to August 8th. Pay is $17.50 per hour. Benefits include a share of farm produce and the opportunity to work with an engaged and supportive team. 

To apply, interested applicants should email their resume, cover letter, and the names and contact information for three professional references to hiring@projectgrows.org.