The Rainier Beach Youth Steward program is a youth employment program where youth, ages 14-18, gain job experience through wetland restoration and farm education.

Participants spend each week in the spring or summer at Rainier Beach Urban Farm and Wetlands engaging in farm activities such as planting, harvesting and packing produce, field management, wetland restoration, working a farm stand and more. Youth participate in different aspects of farm operations, learn about wetland restoration at the farm, and build relationships with peers, adult staff, and volunteers. Additionally, there are opportunities for professional development through team building and job skills training. This employment opportunity requires some heavy lifting and working in rain or shine.

We are currently offering temporary spring, summer and fall positions. Crew members are encouraged to participate in all seasons to gain a full experience in urban farming and wetland restoration. In addition, programming will include team building activities, civic engagement, field trips and workshops covering various topics!

Responsibilities

  • Wetland Restoration — Crew members will work outside in all weather conditions and will participate in plant identification, habitat assessments, planting, mulching, pruning and learn about the role of wetlands.
  • Farm Work and Farm Education — Crew members will participate in farm tasks ranging in seeding, bed building, transplanting, weed management, harvest and wash pack.
  • Participation — Crew members will work as a group with other youth and staff and participate in team building activities and professional development workshops. Crew members are expected to treat the program, land, and participants with respect.

Commitments

  • Respect yourself and others
  • Participate in farm and restoration work and team building activities
  • Show up to work on time every day
  • Call your supervisor in advance if you must be absent or late
  • Work toward the success of the farm and the program; work toward your personal goals
  • Courteously represent Rainier Beach Youth Stewards and Tilth Alliance in the community
  • Discuss and solve problems in a way that is constructive and nonviolent
  • Refrain from having, using, or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs while at work
  • Communicate any problems you have keeping these commitments with staff

Upcoming Programs

We are not currently accepting applications for our Rainier Beach Youth Stewards program.

Questions?

If you have questions or feedback that require immediate attention, please contact Suez Gebretsadik or (206) 633-0451 ext. 900.