Gould Farm is a compassionate, respectful family environment where people with mental illness learn to build more meaningful lives for themselves through work, recreation and community life. The services at the farm remain rooted in the belief that every person has something to contribute despite mental or emotional limitations. Central to the farm model is a structured, supportive work environment for guests.

Whether tending to the gardens or roadside store, pasteurizing milk, or preparing wholesome meals, volunteers, staff, and guests alike work together to run this 600-acre farm. When guests can demonstrate an adequate understanding of their strengths and vulnerabilities, the Boston Program serves as a short-term springboard for practicing life skills necessary for living in an urban environment.

2013 marks the 100th anniversary of Gould Farm, the oldest residential therapeutic community in the nation dedicated to helping adults living with mental illness.

Staff Members generally work in one specific area at the Monterey-based farming community; lead, coach and work with small groups of guests on structured tasks that are required to run the farm; serve as informal counselors and role models; and join in community life and recreation.

Volunteers must make a full-time commitment, usually 12-24 months in length (some summer opportunities may also be available). Although positions are available throughout the year, the greatest need for volunteers occurs in the months of May and September. In order to provide the most fulfilling experience, volunteers are asked to be flexible and work on several areas of the Farm.

Job/Volunteer opportunities are generally offered in these five areas:

Residential Support
Teach daily living skills, assist in crisis management and informal counseling, provide input with treatment planning, and participate in farm activities with guests.

Maintenance/Forestry and Grounds
Work alongside guests and be responsible for a variety of regular and seasonal projects in which guests learn tasks in landscaping and gardening, general house cleaning and management, trail clearing and land management, garden equipment and lawn vehicle maintenance, wood splitting and stacking, snow and ice removal, cider pressing, and maple syrup/candy production.

Gardening/Farming
The tasks of sowing seeds in the greenhouse, planting in the garden and assisting with the chores of a working farm, including tending to cows, chickens and pigs are assigned to volunteers on this team. Guests and staff work together to accomplish daily or seasonal tasks and are rsponsible for a variety of activities that assist in the creation and maintenance of a sustainable agricultural and horticultural environment which provides products for local consumption.

Kitchen/Food Services
Work alongside guests while preparing three healthy meals a day for the community. At the Roadside Store & Café, volunteers gain experience in both restaurant/retail management and human services as they work with guests. Both positions involve working with the clinical staff on treatment plans for guests. General responsibilities include preparation and delivery of menus and meals with attention to nutrition, maintenance of a clean and safe work environment, and teaching and coaching guests assigned to the area.

Administrative Support
Assist with a variety of support projects, including childcare, activities, transportation, reception, special events and outreach work.

Residential Support
The Fellside Program is based in Medford, just outside Boston, MA and serves as a springboard for residents who wish to practice the skills necessary for living in an urban environment. Staff members provide support, guidance, and advocacy for clients who are well on their way to leading more independent lives. Teach daily living skills, assist in crisis management and informal counseling, provide input with treatment planning, and participate in farm activities with guests.

Benefits include a private bedroom in shared onsite staff housing with a common living room, kitchen and bath, farm-fresh meals, a generous stipend of $250 per month, fully paid health insurance (with a one year commitment), and supervision under a senior staff member. Recent graduates are generally able to defer student loans through volunteer work at Gould Farm.

The unique spirit that resides in this rural community lifestyle offers both meaningful work coupled with recreation, singing, music, crafts and a celebration of nature and life.

Gould Farm provides challenging opportunities for volunteers and staff members from around the world. Mature, well-rounded and people-oriented individuals who are interested in learning and living in a therapeutic community are encouraged to apply. Musical, artistic and craft-oriented talents are always appreciated.

Internships are ideal for students who desire quality work experiences before applying for graduate school or starting lifetime careers. Others choose to serve Gould Farm through religious or secular volunteer agencies as well as AmeriCorps.

Applications for volunteer positions are accepted year-round for up to 15 rotating positions. Mail or email your resume and cover letter to Michael Covell to begin the application process.

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Gould Farm can be found in the Meaningful Work and Farming Jobs channel

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