Summer Camp Intern

SUMMER CAMP INTERN

FSLA Status: Part-time (35 hours/week), seasonal, non-exempt employee

Reports to: Education Manager (Primary) & Lead Education Intern (Secondary)

Ideal Start Date: May 20th, 2025

End Date: July 24, 2025                          

Project GROWS is a proud participant in the InternshipsVA program. #InVA
 

About Project GROWS

Project GROWS is a nonprofit educational farm in Augusta County, Virginia with a mission to grow a healthy community by connecting all people to nutritious foods. Our farm stewards a healthy ecosystem that yields nutrient-dense food as well as providing beautiful, engaging natural spaces that promote self-discovery and joy. We provide experiential, hands-on education through summer camps, in-school activities, and mentorship programs. Our team also manages multiple farmers markets that improve food security and contribute to our local food economy. We envision a world with an equitable food system where everyone has the access and knowledge to choose, grow, and enjoy foods that support a healthy life. To learn more, please visit www.projectgrows.org.

About Summer Camp Program

Project GROWS offers summer camps at two locations: the Project GROWS Farm in Staunton and the Waynesboro Education Farm (WEF) at Berkeley Glenn Elementary School in Waynesboro, which together provide six weeks of programming for students from kindergarten through middle school. Our camp programs aim to connect children and youth to nutritious foods through hands-on, farm and project-based learning activities such as cooking, planting, nature exploration, guided discussions about the natural world, and garden design. Each day brings new experiences designed to spark curiosity, engage campers, and support meaningful learning.

Objectives 

The Summer Camp Intern (SCI) will work with the Education Manager and Lead Education Intern to support all aspects of the Summer Camp Program, helping to connect children and youth to nutritious foods through farm and project-based learning. The SCI will function as a core member of the Project GROWS team, exemplifying an ethic of community, teamwork, personal responsibility, and creative problem-solving in pursuit of the organization’s mission.

Internship Learning Goals

• Gain experience teaching K-12 students in outdoor settings through project-based methods.
• Develop skills in teamwork, behavior management, and public speaking.
• Gain experience leading hands-on activities such as gardening, cooking, and nature exploration.
• Observe how schools and nonprofits can collaborate to support garden-based education.

Essential Functions

• Program Delivery & Instruction: Lead games, activities, and farm-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity and excitement about food, farming, and the natural world. Contribute to a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for all participants.
• Camper Supervision & Safety: Supervise groups of camp participants, practice behavior management, and foster a positive camp culture through strong relationships and enthusiasm. Monitor camper and staff safety, following organization protocols at all times. 
• Camp Operations & Communication: Assist with basic camp setup, cleanup, and organization. Communicate with supervisors to provide feedback and improve the camper experience.
• Other Program Support: Provide as needed support for other Project GROWS programs and initiatives including farm support, field trips, markets, youth programs, community and special events, etc. 

Core Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Passion for working with children, especially in outdoor settings
• Strong interest in gardening, nutrition, and/or environmental stewardship 
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and upbeat around groups of energetic campers
• Confidence and excitement to lead large group games, icebreakers, and activities 
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate effectively with both children and adults
• Strong work ethic and self-motivated when working independently as well as in a group setting
• Willingness to learn, ask questions, and follow directions
• Comfortable accepting and receiving feedback
• Comfortable working outside during hot, cold, and inclement weather
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends
• Ability to lift 40+ lbs regularly

Preferred Qualifications*

• Experience leading groups of children and/or youth
• Experience working in a summer camp setting
• CPR/First Aid certified (if not already certified, Project GROWS will pay for training)

*While experience working with children and working at camps is helpful, a willingness to work hard, try new things, and improvise is most important! We encourage candidates with limited experience to still apply. 

Other Requirements

• Because this position is partially funded through the InternshipVA Program, applicants must be currently enrolled at a Virginia higher education institution or intending to enroll in the upcoming semester. Additionally, applicants must have a high school diploma and cannot have already completed their undergraduate degree before starting employment. 
• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by their start date (approximately May 20).
• Because our farm is located in an area without access to reliable public transportation, we recommend that applicants with access to a vehicle apply.
• Because we routinely work with children, background checks are required for final applicants.
• Cell phone communication.

Compensation

This is a part time (35 hours per week), seasonal summer position requiring a 10 week commitment from approximately May 20th to July 24th.  Compensation is $16.50 per hour. In addition, staff are welcome and encouraged to take home complimentary fresh produce from the PG farm each week.

To apply, complete an application found at www.projectgrows.org/jobs-internships-1