Youth Programs
Summer Youth Apprentices
Keep Growing Detroit is seeking three (3) youth Apprentices with strong connections to Detroit who are eager to explore careers in agriculture and food systems. As part of their training, Apprentices will acquire hands-on experience in sustainable small-scale farming techniques, including the production and care of native plants. Youth Apprentices will support our Farm and Engagement Teams with seasonal farm activities and apply their knowledge to lead farm-based field trips for organizations that serve youth. The ideal candidate for the youth Apprenticeship is a responsible high school or undergraduate college student who enjoys physical outdoor work, has some gardening experience, and is passionate about nutritious food, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship. LEARN MORE
DETAILS
Location: 3100 Orleans Street, Detroit, Michigan 48207
Compensation: $17-$19 per hour based on experience
Additional Perks: 50% discount on Grown in Detroit produce and plants and $200 gear allowance
Duration of the Program: June-August 2025 (12 weeks)
Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday 9am to 2pm
Youth Apprentices Will Learn the Following
How to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers including bed prep, planting, weed management, and irrigation
How to produce transplants and native plants
Native plant habitat maintenance at both the KGD Farm and community sites • How to safely harvest, wash, and pack produce
Market operations including market set up, breakdown, and customer service • Volunteer supervision in a farm setting
How to develop and implement an engaging farm field trip experience for youth • How to prepare farm fresh lunches
Desired Qualifications:
Passion for Keep Growing Detroit’s mission and work
Commitment to creating a healthy and inclusive workplace culture
Excellent communication skills
Some experience with gardening or other outdoor work
Reliable transportation, work-related mileage will be reimbursed
Ability to lift 35 pounds and perform physically demanding and repetitive tasks such as standing or bending
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Experience volunteering or working with volunteers is helpful but not required
• Customer service experience is helpful but not required
Familiarity with Detroit’s food system, including chefs/restaurants, produce aggregators, markets, and/or commercial kitchens is helpful but not required
HOW TO APPLY
Please send an email with your resume and cover letter by SUNDAY, FEBRURARY 23 to info@keepgrowingdetroit.org or mail to 1445 Adelaide Street, Detroit, MI 48207. Use ‘2025 KGD Youth Apprenticeship’ as the subject line. Only potential interviewees will be contacted. For more information, please email us at info@keepgrowingdetroit.org or call 313-656-4769.
Youth Programs
It is vitally important that each generation understands the process it takes to get food on their plates and gain the skills to be able to grow their own food! Youth 14-19 are invited to join us throughout the season at our open volunteer hours at the KGD Farm to complete community service hours.
If you are a teacher or youth group leader who is interested in engaging your youth in a beginner garden class, food systems class, volunteer time at the KGD Farm or would like a speaker for your event please contact us.
If you are a youth or parent and have questions contact Co-Director Rosebud
Meet Elijah!
He’s a 3-year KGD Youth participant, dropping knowledge on why it’s important to have a garden.
Note: Watch on YouTube with subtitles
