Nutrition Program Assistant (Intern or volunteer)

Help kids eat healthy. Connect the parents of Head Start preschoolers with local farm-fresh foods, supporting farmers who produce fruits and vegetables while helping our young children develop healthy eating habits. Head Start is partnering with the Institute of Agriculture & Trade Policy (IATP) to implement a farm to child care program at Head Start. Our Farm to Head Start program will include menu innovations featuring local foods, age-appropriate curriculum, culturally responsive learning, family engagement, and connections with local farmers, including the Hmong American Farmers Association. Head Start preschools offers high quality education for children ages 3-5. 

 

Gain communication and teaching skills, office skills, portfolio development, and professional networking. Knowledge that you are helping children and families thrive! 

 

Essential Functions:  

 

·        Spring 2020: focus on farm and agriculture-related tasks

·        Aide the Nutrition Coordinator to lead nutrition-based education that emphasizes healthy eating habits, purchasing local products, and gardening to support the Farm to Head Start program

·        Assist with the development of lesson plans and teach parents/family members or children about nutrition. Help with Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) related tasks

·        Help write and edit a monthly short article featuring child-nutrition related information or child friendly recipe. Support preschool classrooms during our Family Style Meals, occasionally

·        Assist at events, such as Family Fun

·        Other duties as assigned  

 

Safety: Responsible for conducting all duties in a safe manner. 

 

Affirmative Action: Responsible to follow affirmative action plan as set forth and signed by the Board of Directors. 

 

 

·        Must be at least 18 years of age 

·        Must possess or be pursuing a Certification, Associate, Bachelor or other degree (preferred)

·        High school diploma/GED/equivalent required

·        Completed at least one nutrition/dietary, food science or child development class OR have direct experience with food production/agriculture/gardening OR food service (cook, wait-staff, etc.)

·        Newsletter editing or writing experience desired

·        Valid driver’s license and access to an automobile desired

 

Abilities & Skills: In order to be successful in this position, the volunteer will at minimum need to possess the following abilities and skills: 

·        Knowledge of or ability to learn Microsoft or Adobe software for newsletter editing

·        Data Entry (typing skills), filing and other office skills

·        Customer service skills

·        Flexible regarding task assignments

·        Able to work independently after task described and ask for help when needed

·        Must be comfortable interacting with people of diverse backgrounds, education, economic status, and culture 

·        Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information in a professional and discreet manner 

·        Fluency in English language (written and spoken). Bilingual in Hmong, Karen, Nepali, Somali, Spanish or another language desired 

·        Must successfully pass a criminal background check and provide references  

 

Normal office exertion required. Ability to lift 20 lbs (desired). 

This position requires the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks under sometimes stressful conditions. Must be able to function independently with minimal supervision, accept support as needed, and be an effective team member. Must be self-motivated, dependable, and demonstrate both leadership skills and mature judgment abilities. 

Multi-tasking busy flexible-space office environment. Occasional travel required to and from Head Start Centers, program sites and community agencies (mileage reimbursement). If you do not have access to an automobile, you may be able to car-pool with a department colleague. 

Minimum of 4 hours per week for summer-term/semester or 3+ months. Must be available during office hours Monday - Friday from 8am-4:30pm. Occasional weekend or evening events may occur, depending upon your availability. Available for Fall term, Spring term and/or Summer; ongoing - unless the position has been filled.

586 Fuller Avenue, St Paul, MN 55103 (Ruth Benner Center is located on the Green Line train route.)

May assist at other Head Start Centers located throughout Ramsey County, as needed.

Complete an Ongoing Registration Form at www.caprw.org/take-action/volunteer and