OrganiCorps is an Alabama-based organic farm support system for the farmers in Alabama that wish to “go organic” and for college-age coeds that wish to pursue farming for a living. Both of these groups of people have something to teach each other. And all get to win.
It is the purpose of OrganiCorps to provide a structure for producing successful farming ventures. From plan to market is a long and winding road. Relationships, experience and education straighten the road, which also shortens the road; and is what allows you to find, at the end of the road, what you went down the road for in the first place.
We are talking about making a living at farming. It is an entrepreneurial endeavor. So, you have simple facts to learn (many) and you have creative ability to develop and focus (much).
Grow Alabama OrganiCorps supports the Get One Over the Bridge Program* for the Grow Alabama Farmers. Grow Alabama is a state-wide, multi-farm, membership-style (CSA) program which provides a “ready market” for well-produced, organic produce and meats grown by the Grow Alabama farmers.
Depending on your length of stay, you will learn to straighten out all the kinks, twists and turns of the “road to organic farming”. And you will be valuable assistance to a farmer already trying to make it. Your job will be to support him or her winning. In turn, you will set yourself up to win when you are ready to go on your own.
Grow Alabama is an outgrowth of the Mt Laurel Organic Gardens CSA of Birmingham, Alabama; Jerry Spencer, Farmer. At 3 years, Mt Laurel arrived at its 200 family capacity. After seeing the public’s demand for organic and local production and the farmer’s need for marketing and organic growing assistance, Jerry Spencer decided to support the farmers rather than buy more land. Grow Alabama is a market that serves its farmers and a training ground for farmers.
Jerry Spencer will direct the training program. Program development discussions are ongoing with Auburn University Organic Program, Tuskegee University Organic Program, State of Alabama Agriculture Department, the Extension Services of Alabama, Tuskegee and Alabama A&M, NRCS, and the Farm Service Agency of Alabama.
Details:
3-month minimum stay, maximum is open
Housing provided
Food from the farm provided
$200/month stipend provided
Grow Alabama is your farm consultant for life
Your vehicle would be helpful
Your commitment to whatever is
wanted or needed is expected.
No drugs or abuse of alcohol tolerated.
Start by completing our online application, click here.
This application is also for download, click here.
