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 (farm base in the Berkshires, MA)

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.

Current job openings:
Residential Team Leader/Manager: responsible for the leadership of the residential team, scheduling of individual house staffing, coordination of activities, crisis intervention and managing the overall environment and well-being of each of the guest residences.

Residential Volunteer: responsible for assisting in the day-to-day activities that support the creation for guests of a secure and fulfilling sense of home within themselves, their rooms, their house and the larger community.

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: Boston Area Program Support (Fellside: Medford, MA)

The Fellside Program is based in the Boston suburbs 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.

Volunteer Residential Advisor (full-time, paid position)
You will be responsible for working directly with guests who come for care and are part of the transitional program treatment model for the community-based program. 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. Those who commit to a one-year assignment receive room and board, medical insurance, and a stipend of $192.31/bi-weekly ($5,000/year). Also eligible for AmeriCorps educational award upon completion. BS in psychology or any of the human services related fields desired.

Weekend Relief Staff (part-time, paid position)
Reporting to the Assistant Clinical/Program Director, the Weekend Relief Staff position provides the link to full-time staff regarding resident and Extended Community member concerns, crises, issues, etc. that come up over the weekend period. Applicants should have a BA degree, 2-3 years experience in human services, the ability to work independently, and have warm and clear communication skills.

Learning More About Gould Farm

• Community is at the heart of the Gould Farm experience. Watch this video about life on the farm.
• Explore all current job openings with Gould Farm.

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.

Connections & 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 George Moran to begin the application process.

George Moran 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

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