Youth are part of the solution. That principle is at the root of our youth development work. Youth in our programs grow and distribute food, gain job skills and leadership opportunities, and have the chance to be heard and make a difference. Many of our programs also pay a stipend to participants. In the process, youth working with Cultivating Community learn lessons in accountability, civic duty, and building a stronger community.

Do YOU want to be a Youth Grower?
If you're between the ages of 14 and 17, interested in a summer of physical challenge and emotional growth and want to help your community, have fun and earn money, Youth Growers is for you.

Youth Growers is a hands-on program connecting you to yourself, peers, your community, and your food system. From planting to distribution, you participate in all aspects of the growing cycle. You are also connected to the greater Portland community with volunteer and field trip opportunities. Workshops and exercises to foster leadership and knowledge include diversity trainings, food system workshops, community organizing, and public speaking exercises. Youth Growers support one another throughout the experience and are one group. Regularly you will participate in supporting your peers and being supported by them through structured communication and sharing. You will receive a stipend for your full participation in each session and experience being an engaged citizen, productive employee, and socially aware person of integrity.

In 2010, there will be three sessions of Youth Growers:

• Session 1: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, June 22 to July 16, 8 am to 3 pm. Maximum stipend: $640
• Session 2: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, July 27 to August 20, 8 am to 3 pm. Maximum stipend: $640
• Session 3: Culinary Crew, Wednesdays and Saturdays September 1-December. 1. Maximum stipend: $840

To apply for one or more Youth Growers sessions, access the application in MS Word format here. You can either fill it out on your computer and e-mail it to Alida Payson or you can fill out a hard copy and mail it to Youth Growers Application, Cultivating Community, P.O. Box 3792, Portland, ME 04104. Applications are due April 17. Every applicant will come to the interview day on April 27 from 2-5pm at the Kennedy Park office. Be sure to have an adult fill out the last page of the application, which is a reference form.