We are hiring

Summer staff help maintain the Ujima Community Garden

Learn more about OUR OPEN positions:

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 50%

- Support record-keeping and provide some administrative support, contribute to marketing and outreach materials 10%

- 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 25%

- Staff the Garfield Park Neighborhood market (2 Saturdays a month), as well as  pop-up events 15%

Physical Demands

- Must be able to lift 25 - 50 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 phyllis@gpcommunitycouncil.org. Related references will be required. No phone calls, please.

Volunteer

Volunteer with the Garfield Park Community Council

Now more than ever, we need community-led programs that support emergency responses and build long-term resilience. Your contribution as a volunteer will help us make our work possible. After you fill out this form, we will be in contact with you about relevant volunteer opportunities and next steps!