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. Volunteers, staff, and guests alike work together to run this 600-acre farm, whether tending to the gardens or roadside store, pasteurizing milk, or preparing wholesome meals. 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.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

JOB OPENINGS IN MONTEREY, MA (BERKSHIRES)

Volunteer interns 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. Job opportunities are generally offered in one of 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 on a variety of projects, including trail maintenance, painting, repairs, forest management, housekeeping and cooking. Seasonal projects include making maple syrup, splitting firewood, and pressing cider.

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.

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.

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

JOB OPENINGS IN BOSTON, MA (MEDFORD)

Boston Area Program Support
These volunteers live in a smaller community based in the Boston suburbs and provide support, guidance, and advocacy for clients who are well on their way to leading more independent lives. Volunteers contribute to the community in ways that utilize their individual strengths and talents, helping out with housekeeping, meal preparation and cooking, gardening, program development, maintenance, recreation, administration support and computer work.

You must be willing to promote the values and spirit of Gould Farm, to actively participate as a member of the community at meals and other gatherings; to maintain open and honest communications with other staff members; and to promote the safety and well-being of all community members. Read more about your specific job duties with the Boston support program.

Resource Coordinator, Level III • Full-Time Opening
Reporting to the Clinical Program Director of Gould Farm's Boston Area Programs (BAP), the Resource Coordinator is responsible for connecting with the wider community through networking and seeking out potential paid employment, volunteer, educational and affordable housing and benefit opportunities for BAP participants. The Resource Coordinator acts as consultant and advisor to BAP participants and staff to communicate those opportunities. The Resource Coordinator also provides a consistent presence and advocacy for residents and Extended Community members (clients) by encouraging, promoting and facilitating growth toward greater independence. Read more...

LEARNING MORE ABOUT GOULD FARM

• Community is at the heart of the Gould Farm experience. Watch this video about life on the farm.
• Explore the Gould Farm employment page.

TIME COMMITMENT

Volunteers must make a full-time commitment with contracts 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.

PERKS & REWARDS

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), the possibility of an AmeriCorps education award, 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.

THE ESSENTIALS

Gould Farm provides challenging opportunities for volunteer interns 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.

YOUR FIRST MOVE

Applications for volunteer positions are accepted year-round for up to 15 rotating positions. Mail or email your resume and cover letter to the address below or connect with Richard Belair for more information.

CONNECTIONS

Richard Belair
Director of Human Resources
Gould Farm
100 Gould Road
P.O. Box 157
Monterey, MA 01245-0157

(413) 528-1804, ext. 17
(413) 528-5051 fax
hr@gouldfarm.org
www.gouldfarm.org

NAVIGATION

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