Summer Garden and Market Associates

The Garfield Park Community Council (GPCC) is currently seeking Summer Garden and Market Associates for the 2025 Season. 

GPCC is a community-building organization made up of dedicated residents and allies working together to develop leaders and create opportunities and programs to contribute to a vital Garfield Park community. The Wellness Initiative aims to increase the health and wellness of Garfield Park residents, through the core offerings of the Garfield Park Garden Network and the Garfield Park Neighborhood Market, as well as the Youth Garden Corps.

An ideal candidate for this position is someone who is a swift learner capable of multitasking. This person needs to be able to work well with others, as well as with a diverse group of people including Garfield Park residents and organization staff. Experience with urban agriculture, social entrepreneurship, youth programming, or community development is preferred but not required. Garfield Park is a primarily and historically African American community, and GPCC seeks candidates who display a commitment to racial equity and inclusion.

Member Duties

Member duties include working with gardeners, food businesses, and GPCC staff to grow and sell hyperlocal produce in the Garfield Park community. Associates will support the work of the Garfield Park Garden Network and Garfield Park Neighborhood Market to improve garden spaces, harvest, and sell produce, working alongside staff members, Youth Corp members, and volunteers.

Associates will work the market, pop-up events and staff the mobile produce cart. Members will work alongside local teen interns through the Youth Garden Corps and serve as role models for the program. 

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older, college students preferred
• Ability to commit to working throughout the season, up to 30 hours per week

Duties and Expectations

• Support the Garfield Park Garden Network to maintain gardens, including harvest, composting and processing of produce for the Neighborhood Market 
• Support record-keeping and provide some administrative support, contribute to marketing and outreach materials 
• Help lead the Youth Garden Corps – up to ten local teens, who work in the Garfield Park gardens, to gain horticulture, job readiness, and customer service skills 
• Staff the Garfield Park Neighborhood market (2 Saturdays a month), as well as pop-up events 

Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift 50 - 100 pounds
• Must be able to work outside, in a variety of weather conditions including heat, rain, wind, etc.
• The ability to use tools and equipment - training will be provided
• The physical ability to squat, kneel, crouch, and stand for extended periods of time

This is currently a seasonal, 30-hour-per-week contract temporary position, with pay of $20.00 per hour. The terms of employment are project-based and the position is expected to conclude by August 2025.

To Apply
Send resume and cover letter to admin@gpcommunitycouncil.org. Related references will
be required. No phone calls, please.

Garfield Park Community Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer