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.
Are You Ready to Be a Youth Grower?
If you're between 14 and 17 and interested in a summer of physical challenge and emotional growth while helping your community, earning some money, and having fun, Youth Growers might be for you.
Youth Growers is a hands-on program connecting youth to themselves, their
community, and the food system. From planting through distribution, youth
participate in all aspects of the growing cycle. Through this work, youth are
also connected to the greater Portland community with volunteer and field trip
opportunities. Youth also participate in workshops and exercises to foster
leadership and knowledge of social issues, including diversity trainings, food
system workshops, community organizing, and public speaking exercises. Youth
receive a stipend for their full participation in the program. In all, Youth
Growers prepare themselves for a future of engaged citizenship, productive
employment, personal integrity, and social awareness to tackle the challenges
that lay ahead.
In 2008, there will be 4 sessions of Youth Growers:
- Session 1: Saturdays from May 24 to June 21, 8 am to 3 pm. Maximum stipend: $200
- Session 2: Tuesdays through Fridays, June 24 to July 18, 8 am to 3 pm. Maximum
stipend: $600
- Session 3: Tuesdays through Fridays, July 29 to August 22, 8 am to 3 pm. Maximum
stipend: $640
- Session 4: Saturdays from September 6 to October 11, 8 am to 3 pm. Maximum
stipend: $240
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 Charlie Utter 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 for Sessions 1-3 are due April 18.
Whether you apply electronically or on paper, make sure you download and have an adult fill out and return the reference form.
