Thursday, August 19, 2010

Memories From A Summer Intern

An internship at The Lord's Acre is not merely an internship; it is a whole community experience. In the spring, I signed up to learn how to grow food in a non-profit context, not knowing that I would enter one of the best jobs of my life. Throughout my experience, the staff and supporters of the garden supported me everyday in our shared pursuit of growing food and changing food systems. Very often we remarked that the friendships made at the garden would not have been possible any other way--I met so many people I would not have otherwise encountered, but with whom, in fact, I shared much in common. Living in community was one of the most beautiful parts of the internship. Sharing a meal at the end of a long day or a potluck during a work night enriched our relationships intentionally. Additionally, the opportunity to attend board meetings and write grants made me feel that I was not just a short-term intern, but a valued part of the organization. The partnerships I was able to build personally and professionally with food pantries and other partner organizations will carry on to future endeavors. I am grateful to The Lord's Acre and the individuals associated with it for a positive time rich with knowledge and good fun. I would recommend the internship to anyone interested in an experience that just begins at growing food.