Interns and Volunteers

Interns and volunteers are essential to the success of our farm and garden program. Interns are involved in almost all aspects of an educational farm. Here are a few things interns experience:

• Witness the first push of the seedlings out of soil blocks in the greenhouse
• Teach children how to groom a horse
• Help ewes give birth during lambing season
• Tap trees, collect sap, and boil it into delicious maple syrup
• Lead farm-based educational activities for students and campers
• Rotationally graze the sheep, llama, cow, pig, and chickens on pasture
• Plan and partake in special farm activities like Garden Harvest Meals and Farm Festival

As you can see, farm life runs the gamut from mucking out horse stalls to scrubbing vegetables for use in the kitchen. Because of the strong integration between the farm and children's programming, farm staff also take part in the daily life of students and campers, serving as a teacher and mentor in a variety of ways. Given this fast-paced and multi-faceted job, flexibility and adaptability are important skills for interns and volunteers to have.

Those with horse and riding experience should contact Kat Tholen to discuss specific needs and options for the riding program. 

We are no longer accepting applications for year-round farm interns at this time.  Please check back next spring!

Interns

Internships are usually either 3 to 4 months or 12-month arrangements. Credit for school can be arranged, and we would be happy to work with those who have a specific interest or project idea. A modest stipend and health insurance are typically supplied for the year-long internships. All interns receive free room and board. Please send a cover letter and resume in addition to the application form.  Email Mike Tholen or Kat Tholen, or call 1-518-523-9329 x121 with any questions you may have. 

Intern Job Description (pdf)

Application for Internship (pdf)

Apply Online

Volunteers

NCS and CTT have a long history of volunteerism—many people have helped out in many ways over the years. We are now starting to formalize volunteerism for the farm to help us match the best person to where she or he can be most fulfilled and effective. This could be through teaching a specific class, offering some capable hands during busy times, or even lending expertise by fixing a piece of equipment. Volunteers help NCS and CTT thrive! Please email Mike Tholen or Kat Tholen or call 1-518-523-9329 x121, so we may speak to you.