AmeriCorps FARM Program Positions

Easter Seals Wisconsin is looking for two people to serve in our Summer FARM Program AmeriCorps Positions. Members will commit to serve a minimum of 300 hours from May 21- August 24, 2012. Members will serve approximately 25 hours/week in and office setting in Madison, WI. Members will be required to attend two days of training in Wisconsin Dells, WI. Members will earn a total living stipend of $1,250 and, upon successful completion of their term, members will earn an education award of $1,175  which can be used toward current educations costs or student loans; members have seven years to use the award.

For over 19 years, Easter Seals Wisconsin (ESW) has provided vocational rehabilitation services for farmers and agricultural workers with disabilities due to injury, chronic disease or illness.  For most of this time, the ESW FARM Program has partnered with UW-Extension as the direct service provider for the USDA-funded AgrAbility of Wisconsin project.  The FARM program staff consult on-site with the farmers to recommend and help secure funding for modifications and assistive technologies that will permit them to continue to farm. With support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), the ESW FARM Program serves over 450 farmers each year. 

Through Easter Seals Wisconsin’s partnership with the AmeriCorps program, we are able to offer comprehensive services, detailed case management and serve more farmers.

Below are brief descriptions of each position available:

• FARM Assistive Technology Assistant: This member will serve as a liaison between the farmer and vendors of assistive technology. He/she will research items to best meet the farmer’s needs. The member will work closely with FARM Program staff and prepare detailed reports on each farmer’s recommendations. Background knowledge of farming/agriculture strongly preferred. One position available, this member will serve at the Easter Seals Wisconsin main office.

• FARM Program Assistant – This member is responsible for client intake activities including interviews and follow-up for farmers that request AgrAbility of Wisconsin services.  This member is the first point of contact for clients interested in receiving services. Member will also be responsible for administering and tracking client surveys. Strong interpersonal skills and sensitivity to the needs of clients required.  One position available, this member will serve at the AgrAbility of Wisconsin office on the UW-Madison campus.

Applicants must have excellent organization, communication and computer skills. He/she must be comfortable interacting with the public, including farmers and agricultural organizations. This position is requires a high level of independence and eagerness to serve individuals with disabilities. Easter Seals Wisconsin does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, political affiliation, military service or marital or parental status. Reasonable efforts are made to recruit and retain individuals with disabilities.

To be considered for these positions, please fill out an AmeriCorps application which can be found by following this link and typing "Easter Seals Wisconsin" under "Program Name." E-mail questions to americorps@eastersealswisconsin.com, or call 608-237-1397.