LEAP Food Hub Internship

‍

The Food Hub intern will support LEAP’s mission by assisting in the daily work of our food distribution channels to support increased sales by local farmers and more local food reaching all parts of our community. This position will report to the Food Hub Manager. This is an unpaid internship. Interns are encouraged to bring home a new fruit or vegetable each week to learn about and cook with. If this internship is an eligible opportunity for college credit, LEAP staff will complete any necessary paperwork.

‍

Position Description:

The Food Hub intern will work across multiple programs focused on supporting producers and increasing consumers’ access to local foods.The intern will learn how LEAP aggregates and distributes local food through our direct-to-consumer programming, and how LEAP works to limit food waste and increase food access through our light processing program.

‍

Requirements:

• Interest in food systems or local agriculture
• Ability to follow direction well and work thoroughly and efficiently
• Strong attention to detail and well organized
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to interact with diverse populations
• Able to lift 40 lbs.
• Willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Follow all food safety guidelines

‍

Responsibilities:

• Help with packing orders for the Farm Share program including weighing and quality control.
• Assist with loading/storing/labeling food for various pick up sites across the city.
• Support staff at Farm Share distributions and interact directly with Farm Share members.
• Work with our Kitchen Manager to prepare and freeze local produce and package for retail sales to increase our selection of more accessible local foods.
• Assist in maintaining the food hub space in an organized and food safe manner.

‍

Schedule:

6-12 hours a week. Runs May through January. The duration of the internship is flexible.

About LEAP

Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP) is a Roanoke-based 501c3 nonprofit. Founded in 2009, LEAP strives to nurture an equitable food and farming system that prioritizes health and abundance. LEAP programs include two farmers markets, a mobile market, an online marketplace, a farm share, a food hub, a commercial kitchen, three community gardens, and robust nutrition incentive programs. LEAP also works with community partners from across the region on initiatives that promote farm to community and food system development. LEAP is the lead organization for Virginia Fresh Match, a statewide network of markets and retail outlets that make fruits and vegetables more affordable for SNAP participants.

To Apply

Email a cover letter and resume to Kelly Key at kelly@leapforlocalfood.org or drop them off at The LEAP Hub at 1027 Patterson Ave. SW, Roanoke.

If you need assistance with the application process, please contact Kelly Key (kelly@leapforlocalfood.org or 540-492-5311).

‍