JFS Alternative Break Welcome Packet 2013 2014

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Organic Farming Alternative Break OFAB 2013-2014

Welcome Packet

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Copyright*©*2013*Jewish*Farm*School.*All*rights*reserved.*Jewish*Farm*School*/*5020*Cedar*Ave.*/*Philadelphia,*PA*19143*

jewishfarmschool.org*/*877.537.6286*!

Jewish!Farm!School!is!a!program!of!Hazon.!The!Organic!Farm!Alternative!Break!is!generously!funded!by!Repair!the!World!&!!

the!Morningstar!Foundation.

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Copyright*©*2012*Jewish*Farm*School.*All*rights*reserved.*!

Contents

Welcome Letter ..........................................................1 About the Jewish Farm School...................................2 Alternative Breaks ......................................................3 Program Model...........................................................3 Intended Impact……………………………..................5 Sample Itinerary……………………………................10 What Happens Next? ...............................................12 Orientation Sessions………………………................15 Post-Trip Follow-Up……………………….. ...............17 What They’re Saying………………………................19 Appendix: Logic Model Visual ................................. .20

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Dear*Friends,**We*are*delighted*that*you*have*decided*to*participate*in*a*Jewish*Farm*School*Organic*Farming*Alternative*Break*(OFAB).***We*have*been*running*Alternative*Breaks*since*2008*and*have*served*over*400*students*on*rural*and*urban*farms*across*the*United*States.**Through*our*service*learning*programs,*Jewish*Farm*School*has*had*an*incredible*impact*on*our*participants,*the*farms*with*which*we*work*and*the*people*who*they*feed.**OFAB*participants*engage*in*handsVon*learning*and*service,*study*Jewish*texts*connected*to*food*justice*and*ecology,*and*undertake*groupVbuilding*experiences*that*will*last*a*lifetime.****OFAB*participants*have*transformative*experiences*that*engage*their*Jewish*identity,*their*Hillel*community,*and*their*relationship*with*land,*food*and*spirit.**Our*OFAB*alumni*are*starting*gardens*and*farmer’s*markets,*are*active*in*food*justice*efforts*on*their*college*campuses*and*are*working*in*nonVprofit*organizations*in*the*fields*of*farming,*food*security*and*Jewish*education.**The*OFAB*alumni*network*feeds*into*continued*work*with*Jewish*Farm*School,*as*well*as*sister*organizations*such*as*Hazon,*the*Teva*Learning*Center,*Pearlstone*Center,*Adamah*and*Urban*Adamah.**The*process*of*planning*and*executing*these*programs*involves*many*logistics*and*requires*great*communication*between*many*parties.**This*Welcome*Packet*guides*you*through*the*various*pieces*of*the*process*and*provides*the*key*information*that*will*help*us*work*together*to*provide*an*exceptional*program*for*your*students.**We*hope*you*find*these*materials*helpful*as*you*begin*to*plan*your*program*with*us.**Please*be*in*touch*with*us*to*share*any*feedback*or*suggestions*you*have*so*that*we*can*continue*to*develop*and*improve*this*guide*for*future*partners.**And,*of*course,*you*should*always*feel*free*to*call*us*with*questions*regarding*any*aspect*of*this*process.**We*look*forward*to*a*fruitful*and*enjoyable*partnership.***Sincerely,***

**Nati*Passow* * * * * *Executive*Director* * * *Jewish*Farm*School****

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About the Jewish Farm School The*Jewish*Farm*School*was*formally*established*in*2005*with*a*mission*to*practice*and*promote*sustainable*agriculture*and*to*support*food*systems*rooted*in*justice*and*Jewish*traditions.*We*educate*participants*through*farmVbased*service*learning*experiences,*apprenticeships,*practical*skills*trainings,*Jewish*text*study*and*consulting.*Our*programs*provide*avenues*of*engagement*for*both*highly*involved*and*previously*unaffiliated*Jewish*young*adults*and*are*a*catalyst*for*lifelong*learning*in*Jewish,*environmental,*social*justice,*and*food*related*issues.**

Since*our*inception,*we*have*run*served*over*5000*children,*college*students,*and*adults.*We*designed*and*manage*the*Farm*at*Eden*Village,*a*twoVacre*educational*farm*on*the*grounds*of*Eden*Village*Camp,*a*new*Jewish*summer*camp*outside*of*New*York*City.**The*Farm*serves*as*an*experiential*learning*center*where*Judaism’s*agricultural*heritage*comes*alive,*and*participants*discover*how*traditional*wisdom*can*inform*contemporary*social*and*environmental*issues.***

Through*a*curriculum*that*links*Jewish*agricultural*practices,*such*as*letting*the*land*rest*every*seven*years*(Shmita)*and*reserving*the*corners*of*fields*for*those*in*need*(Peah),*with*contemporary*food*and*environmental*issues,*Jewish*Farm*School*empowers*a*new*generation*of*individuals*who*see*food*as*a*vehicle*for*social*and*environmental*justice*and*understand*their*efforts*as*religious*and*spiritual*imperatives.*Ultimately,*the*vision*for*Jewish*Farm*School*is*to*have*two*sites,*one*rural*and*one*urban,*while*continuing*to*run*programs*nationally.*This*will*allow*the*organization*to*model*sustainability*on*a*regional*scale*while*also*bringing*our*message*to*Jewish*students*and*communities*around*the*country*through*Alternative*Breaks*and*Cooperative*Design.*

Our*core*program*areas*and*services*include:*

• Organic*Farming*Alternative*Break*trips*with*college*students*on*farms*around*the*country*• Urban*Sustainability*Workshops*for*application*in*urban*and*suburban*environments*• Mentorship*for*Farm*Education*Apprenticeships*at*the*Farm*at*Eden*Village*• Teacher*Trainings*and*Seminars*in*experiential*education*and*farm*and*garden*based*

learning*• Cooperative*Design:**Consulting*with*synagogues,*JCCs,*schools*and*private*landowners*on*

educational*and*public*interest*Jewish*farming*and*gardening*projects.!!Organizational!Information!The*Jewish*Farm*School*consists*of*two*full*time*staff;*Nati*Passow,*Executive*Director,*and*Cassie*Pena,*Communications*and*Operations*Manager.**Jewish*Farm*School*employs*seasonal*staff*and*educators*for*specific*programs.*

Hazon,*a*New*York*based*Jewish*environmental*organization,*is*Jewish*Farm*School’s*fiscal!sponsor,*meaning*that*Jewish*Farm*School*operates*autonomously*but*maintains*nonprofit*status*under*the*umbrella*of*Hazon.***

In*July*of*2009,*Jewish*Farm*School*became*a*resident*of*the*Bikkurim*incubator*program*and*graduated*from*the*program*in*2013.*

Jewish*Farm*School*is*supported*by*several*foundations*and*organizations,*including*Hazon,*Repair*the*World,*UJAVFederation*of*New*York,*Bikkurim,*the*Joshua*Venture*Group,*the*Natan*Fund,*the*Joyce*and*Irving*Goldman*Foundation,*and*the*Lisa*and*Maury*Friedman*Foundation.***

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Donations*to*Jewish*Farm*School*are*tax*deductible*and*payments*are*made*out*to*Hazon.*

Alternative Breaks

Program Model (see Appendix) Since*2008,*the*Jewish*Farm*School*has*been*running*the*Organic*Farming*Alternative*Break*(OFAB)*serviceVlearning*program.**To*date,*we*have*reached*over*400*participants*from*more*than*40*different*Hillels*across*the*country.**We*have*trained*30*OFAB*Group*Leaders*and*many*of*our*alumni*are*now*creating*environmental*change*on*their*campuses,*working*in*Jewish*environmental*organizations,*or*in*the*field*of*sustainable*agriculture*around*the*world.****Our*educational*curriculum*frames*handsVon*sustainable*farming*within*the*larger*context*of*local*and*global*food*concerns*and*Jewish*values*and*traditions.*A*typical*morning*could*find*participants*pruning*fruit*trees,*learning*about*an*industrial*food*system*that*ships*fruit*halfway*around*the*world,*and*then*examining*classical*Jewish*agricultural*laws*regarding*grafting*and*pruning*and*feeding*underserved*peoples*in*your*local*community.*Our*holistic*OFAB*curriculum*is*carefully*designed*to*take*advantage*of*every*aspect*of*the*trip*as*a*valuable*educational*opportunity.**Each*Alternative*Break*provides*the*opportunity*for*15V18*participants*to*spend*a*week*working*for*5V6*hours*a*day*on*smallVscale,*organic*farms*in*either*rural*or*urban*locations.**Work*projects*vary*depending*on*the*time*of*year,*the*location*of*the*farm*and*each*farm’s*particular*focus,*but*will*typically*include*daily*farm*chores*such*as*weeding,*harvesting, animal*husbandry,*planting*and*watering,*and*also*involve*largerVscale*projects*that*would*not*be*possible*without*the*help*of*the*group,*such*as*the*construction*of*outdoor*kitchens,*building*programming*spaces,*or*installing*deer*fencing.**HandsVon*service*projects*will*be*interspersed*with*learning*sessions*comprised*of*Jewish*text*study,*discussion,*and*skillsVbased*workshops.**

Program*Partners*Program*partners*and*host*farms*include*organizations*whose*mission*to*promote*food*systems*rooted*in*justice*and*to*provide*greater*access*to*sustainably*grown*foods,*aligns*with*our*own.**We*seek*out*farms*where*our*trip*participants*can*offer*meaningful*contributions*to*communities*with*unmet*needs.**Many*of*our*partnering*farms*run*Community*Supported*Agriculture*(CSA)*projects*and*educational*programs*throughout*the*year,*and*work*to*promote*smallVscale*farming*with*a*focus*on*providing*affordable,*local,*and*organic*produce.* Past*Partners*Include:**Green*Gate*Farms:**Green*Gate*Farms*is*a*certified*organic*farm,*established*by*Skip*Connett*and*Erin*Flynn*in*a*blighted*neighborhood*in*east*Austin*in*2006.*They*have*restored*a*historical*farm*site*to*create*a*community*resource*for*neighbors*of*all*incomes*and*have*developed*a*rural*site*just*outside*of*Austin.**They*operate*a*100+*member*CSA,*dozens*of*community*events,*summer*camps,*a*farm*stand,*Children's*Garden*and*raise*rare*breed*livestock.*

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*Pie*Ranch*Farm:**Since*2005,*Pie*Ranch*in*Pescadero,*CA*has*operated*as*a*working*farm*hosting*youth*from*regional*high*schools*to*participate*in*farmVbased*programs*and*activities.*Pie*Ranch*also*works*with*educators*and*community*collaborators*in*diverse*urban,*suburban*and*rural*settings*to*help*students*apply*what*they’ve*learned*at*Pie*Ranch*in*their*daily*lives.*In*addition,*Pie*Ranch*mentors*aspiring*farmers*as*resident*apprentices*who*spend*a*full*year*immersed*in*all*aspects*of*farm*operations*and*marketing.**The*Food*Project:*Based*in*Boston,*MA,*The*Food*Project’s*mission*is*to*grow*a*thoughtful*and*productive*community*of*youth*and*adults*from*diverse*backgrounds*who*work*together*to*build*a*sustainable*food*system.*They*produce*healthy*food*for*residents*of*the*city*and*suburbs*and*provide*youth*leadership*opportunities.**They*strive*to*inspire*and*support*others*to*create*change*in*their*own*communities.**Morning*Song*Farm:!!Located*in*Rainbow,*CA,*in*the*northernmost*community*of*San*Diego*County,*Morning*Song*Farm*is*a*certified*organic*farm*that*grows*a*mix*of*common*and*unusual*subtropical*fruits*and*a*great*diversity*of*vegetables.**They*run*a*CSA*to*subscribers*in*Riverside,*San*Diego*and*Orange*counties,*California.**

Service*Experience*and*Impact*on*the*Community*Served**Today,*the*way*we*produce*food*is*wreaking*havoc*on*the*planet,*exploiting*workers*and*animals,*and*is*responsible*for*the*prevalence*of*dietVrelated*diseases*in*the*U.S.**And*our*food*system*is*leaving*almost*50*million*Americans*without*consistent*access*to*adequate*food.***The*Jewish*Farm*School*works*with*community*and*nonVprofit*farms*striving*to*produce*wholesome,*high*quality,*and*healthy*food*in*a*way*that*benefits*the*earth*and*its*inhabitants.**This*work*is*extremely*demanding,*economically*difficult,*and*profoundly*important,*as*we*become*more*aware*of*the*negative*consequences*of*the*industrial*food*system.****Our*host*farms*face*numerous*challenges*including*financial*strain,*staff*shortages*and*limited*time*to*meet*the*demands*for*local*and*organic*produce.**By*having*15V18*college*students*willing*to*work*5V6*hours*a*day,*the*farm*is*able*to*accomplish*projects*during*the*week*that*would*have*otherwise*taken*months.****Needs*Addressed**

• There*are*substantial*numbers*of*Jewish*students*who*identify*as*environmentalists*and*social*activists*and*who*care*deeply*about*agricultural/food*issues*but*are*not*connected*to*Jewish*life*and*who*don’t*see*Judaism*as*relevant*to*their*lives*

• Without*a*personal*and*direct*experience*of*agriculture*many*aspects*of*Jewish*life*and*tradition,*such*as*the*agricultural*roots*of*the*Jewish*calendar,*remain*untapped*

• Many*Jewish*students*are*profoundly*disconnected*from*the*basic*processes*from*which*they*derive*benefit*such*as*food*production*

• Agriculture*and*the*current*food*system*is*responsible*for*1/3*of*climate*change*emissions,*massive*soil*depletion*and*pollution,*worker*abuse,*leaves*much*of*the*world*hungry*AND*many*students*don’t*know*about*this*

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• SmallVscale*community*farms*and*food*security*nonVprofit*organizations*struggle*financially*and*often*lack*needed*labor*

• Each*year,*millions*of*pounds*of*edible*fruits*and*vegetables*go*to*waste*on*farms*simply*because*it*is*not*economically*viable*for*farmers*to*harvest*this*produce.*Many*farmers*are*more*than*happy*for*the*produce*that*they*are*not*able*to*harvest*to*be*donated*to*people*in*need*if*they*have*a*volunteer*work*force*able*to*do*the*harvesting.*

• 48.8*million*Americans,*1*out*of*every*6,*are*food*insecure1*and*more*than*23*million*Americans*live*in*food*deserts*(at*least*1*mile*from*ready*access*to*fresh,*healthy*food)2*

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Intended Impact There*are*a*number*of*intended*outcomes*for*our*OFAB*trip*participants.**We*have*broken*up*these*outcomes*into*four*areas;*knowledge,*skills,*behavior*and*attitude.****Short!Term!Outcomes!(Participant!Knowledge):!!

• 100%*are*familiar*with*key*characteristics*and*challenges*of*sustainable*agriculture*models**• 100%*are*aware*of*the*many*components*of*a*food*system*and*can*identify*related*social,*

environmental,*economic*and*political*issues*• 75%*are*equipped*to*trace*their*food*from*farm*to*table*• 100%*have*basic*understanding*of*specific*key*social,*environmental,*economic,*cultural*and*

political*considerations*affecting*the*host*site*and*local*community*• 100%*can*identify*specific*ways*in*which*Jewish*texts*and*tradition*relate*to*contemporary*

food*justice*and*environmental*issues**Short!Term!Outcomes!(Participant!Skills):!*

• 100%*have*learned*fundamentals*of*one*or*more*basic*agricultural*skills*such*as*planting,*weeding,*harvesting,*etc.*

• 100%*have*learned*fundamentals*of*one*or*more*sustainable*living*skills*such*as*cooking,*food*preserving*or*composting*

*Medium!Term!Outcomes!(Participant!Behavior):!

*• 50%*have*changed*their*food*purchasing*habits*based*on*their*participation*in*the*program*• 75%*share*some*of*their*new*knowledge*and*skills*with*peers,*friends*and/or*family*• 25%*become*engaged*(or*more*engaged)*in*some*food*or*farming*related*issue*on*

campus/at*home**Short!Term!Outcomes!(Participant!Attitudes):!!

• 100%*feel*that*Judaism*is*relevant*to*environmental*and*food*justice*related*issues*• 50%*feel*a*stronger*connection*to*Jewish*life*and*tradition*• 75%*are*interested*in*learning*more*about*food*system*issues*and*agriculture**• 100%*have*greater*appreciation*for*the*effort*that*goes*into*sustainable*food*production*• 25%*feel*inspired*to*find*ways*to*positively*influence*one*or*more*aspects*of*their*

home/campus*food*systems*• 100%*feel*that*they*made*a*meaningful*contribution*to*the*host*farm/s**

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Short!Term!Host!Farm’s!and/or!Partner!Organization’s!Outputs!and!Outcomes:!!

• $7.25hr*(minimum*wage)*x*25hrs*x*16*participants*=*$2900*of*volunteer*service*provided**• 100%*are*able*to*demonstrate*the*positive*impact*of*our*service*work.**For*example:*• They*are*able*to*identify*how*our*students’*service*led*directly*to*people*in*need*being*fed*or*

their*lives*otherwise*being*improved*in*some*clear*and*measurable*way*• They*are*able*to*point*to*food*that*was*harvested*and*donated*to*people*in*need*which*

would*have*otherwise*been*wasted*• They*are*able*to*identify*service*work*that*results*in*making*the*farming*operation*more*

ecologically*sustainable*(e.g.*preserves*biodiversity,*reduces*waste*and*pollution,*improves*soil*retention)*

• 100%*perceive*our*group*as*a*helpful*partner*with*genuine*desire*to*learn*about*pressing*local*issues*and*address*community*needs*

• 100%*value*the*service*work*provided**• 85%*are*interested*in*working*with*our*organization*again*in*the*future*

*Knowledge!Outcomes:!

• Participants*will*see*food*and*agriculture*as*social*justice*issues*• Participants*will*understand*the*social,*environmental,*and*economic*issues*affecting*the*

host*site*• Participants*will*learn*about*current*issues,*such*as*global*food*security,*genetically*

modified*foods,*and*agricultural*subsidies*• Participants*will*learn*some*of*the*laws*of*Shabbat*and*how*to*prepare*for*and*facilitate*

Shabbat*rituals*• Participants*will*understand*the*concept*of*a*food*system,*and*the*social*and*environmental*

implications*of*their*food*choices*• Participants*will*understand*that*Judaism*contains*relevant*wisdom*relating*to*

contemporary*environmental*and*social*justice*issues**Skills!Outcomes:!!

• Participants*will*acquire*basic*skills*of*organic*farming*and*sustainable*food*production*• Participants*will*acquire*basic*skills*in*food*preparation,*cooking,*and*preserving*

!Behavioral!Outcomes:!!

• Participants*will*celebrate*Shabbat*in*a*new*or*enhanced*way*• Participants’*experience*of*Jewish*life*and*traditions*will*be*informed*by*their*experience*on*

the*farm*• 50%*of*participants*will*become*involved*in*initiatives*related*to*food,*farming,*

sustainability,*or*social*justice*• Participants*will*think*more*deeply*about*where*their*food*is*coming*from*and*their*

relationship*to*it*!Attitudinal!Outcomes:!

• Participants*will*feel*a*stronger*connection*to*the*natural*world*• Participants*will*feel*a*stronger*connection*to*Judaism*• Participants*will*develop*an*appreciation*and*sensitivity*for*the*effort*that*goes*into*

sustainable*food*production*• Participants*will*value*the*practice*of*expressing*gratitude*and*setting*intention**

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Program*Length*and*Primary*Activities*The*program*length*is*7*days,*beginning*on*a*Sunday,*peaking*with*a*Shabbat*celebration*and*ending*Sunday*late*morning.***In*addition*to*the*farm*work,*participants*learn*specific*sustainability*skills,*such*as*food*preservation,*making*herbal*medicines,*and*natural*building.**A*typical*weekday*includes*5*hrs*of*service*work*and*a*90Vminute*educational*session*combining*rich*Jewish*text*study*with*contemporary*issues*around*food*justice*and*sustainability.*Core*daily*routines*include*Morning*Prayer*or*meditation,*blessings*before*meals,*morning*chores,*journaling,*and*sit*spot*(individual*time*in*nature)*each*afternoon.!

Jewish*and*Contextual*Education**Each*day*Jewish*Farm*School*Group*Leaders*facilitate*a*discussion*using*the*Jewish*Farm*School*Resource*Manual,*aimed*at*stimulating*students*to*deeply*explore*food*and*environmental*issues*within*the*context*of*Jewish*tradition*and*values.**The*educational*curriculum*is*both*informative*and*encouraging*of*selfVreflection,*designed*to*provoke*life*questions*concerning*consumption,*social*responsibility,*and*Jewish*practice,*in*a*safe*and*supportive*environment.****The*success*of*the*Jewish*Farm*School*OFAB*is*exemplified*by*comments*made*by*program*participants.**Yale*junior,*Eliza*Shiffer,*said*about*her*experience*and*the*value*of*combining*Judaism*and*social*justice,*“Jewish*values*can*instill*a*greater*meaning*and*significance*in*our*social*justice*work.*As*protectors*and*rulers*over*the*earth,*we*are*responsible*for*inheriting*the*wisdom*of*our*tradition*in*order*to*fulfill*these*roles*as*best*we*can.”****The*programs*include*extensive*learning*about*Jewish*pluralistic*process,*Shabbat*and*daily*Jewish*rituals.**The*participants*discuss*Shabbat*midVweek*and*it*is*largely*up*to*the*group*(with*staff*support)*as*to*how*they*wish*to*celebrate*Shabbat.**The*program*also*includes*optional*time*for*daily*prayer*and*intentions*and*blessings*before*each*meal.**Innovation!*Jewish*Farm*School’s*innovative*OFAB*work*is*distinguished*from*other*projects*in*the*field*in*a*number*of*ways.*While*the*field*of*Jewish*environmental*and*agricultural*education*is*expanding,*Jewish*Farm*School*remains*the*only*organization*of*its*kind*that*operates*on*a*national*scale*and*the*only*organization*that*hosts*shortVterm*immersive*service*learning*trips.*Another*point*of*distinction*is*our*curriculum.*By*teaching*practical*skills*of*sustainability*in*connection*with*the*political*and*environmental*implications*of*the*global*food*system,*Jewish*Farm*School*is*rare*in*its*capacity*to*provide*individuals*and*Jewish*communities*with*the*necessary*tools*to*think*globally*and*act*locally*on*these*issues.*Our*holistic*OFAB*curriculum*is*carefully*designed*to*take*advantage*of*every*aspect*of*the*trip*as*a*valuable*educational*opportunity.*For*example,*given*the*focus*of*our*work,*we*approach*meals*on*the*trip*as*a*core*aspect*of*the*curriculum*rather*than*as*breakVtime.*The*participants*not*only*work*with*produce*in*the*fields,*but*also*are*responsible*for*preparing*their*own*meals.*With*the*support*of*the*group*leaders,*participants*learn*how*to*turn*the*vegetables,*herbs*and*grains*they*grow*and*harvest*into*delicious*meals*for*their*participant*community.*By*contextualizing*the*work*we*do*in*the*field*with*the*food*we*eat*at*our*meals,*we*help*participants*make*the*connections*that*will*be*necessary*to*sustain*the*impact*of*the*program*upon*their*return*to*campus.*

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Jewish*Farm*School*Group*Leaders*Two*highly*capable*Jewish*Farm*School*Group*Leaders*staff*each*OFAB*trip.**These*Group*Leaders*act*as*the*primary*educators*and*facilitators*during*the*course*of*the*week.**They*also*manage*on*the*ground*logistics*during*the*trip*and*are*in*regular*contact*with*the*Jewish*Farm*School*office.**The*Group*Leaders*are*partVtime*Jewish*Farm*School*staff*and*are*trained*in*the*Jewish*Farm*School*OFAB*curriculum*during*an*intensive*5Vday*training.****Every*year*Jewish*Farm*School*hires*an*incredible*cohort*of*Group*Leaders,*consisting*of*professionals*and*educators*in*the*fields*of*environmental*studies,*Jewish*studies,*agriculture*and*social*justice.**Our*Group*Leaders*are*seasoned*educators*with*rich*backgrounds*in*group*facilitation*and*Jewish*pluralism.**We*work*hard*to*hire*educators*who*model*the*highest*standards*for*intellectual*rigor*and*ethical*integrity,*in*combination*with*qualities*of*compassion,*creativity*and*joy.**Additionally,*we*ensure*that*each*team*of*two*Group*Leaders*possesses*a*complimentary*skill*set.*

Curricular*Resources***• Our*educators*work*with*our*100+page*Jewish*Farm*School*Resource*Manual,*which*includes*a*

wealth*of*curricula,*articles,*and*primary*sources*at*the*intersection*of*food,*agriculture,*Judaism*and*social*justice.**All*of*our*trip*participants*receive*a*student*version*of*this*Manual.*

Partnerships***

The*OFAB*experience*is*the*result*of*rich*partnerships*and*collaborations*between*various*parties*including*Jewish*Farm*School*professional*staff,*our*Group*Leaders,*Hillel*International*Center,*Repair*the*World,*university*students,*Hillel*staff*from*across*the*country*and*farms*and*the*communities*they*serve.**

OFAB*partnerships*are*characterized*by*ongoing*communication*before*and*after*the*trip*to*best*achieve*our*goal*of*long*term*involvement*in*sustainability*related*issues*and*the*Jewish*community.**

Jewish*Farm*School*works*together*with*its*partner*institutions*and*organizations*to*tailor*specific*objectives*for*each*trip,*which*are*informed*by*a*given*Hillel’s*broader*goals*and/or*a*farm’s*particular*needs.*

Student*Empowerment*Student*leadership*and*empowerment*are*explicit*goals*for*OFAB*trips.**Jewish*Farm*School*deliberately*develops*its*OFAB*program*in*ways*that*encourage*trip*participants*to*assume*leadership*roles*during*the*course*of*the*week.**We*strongly*encourage*our*partner*Hillels*to*begin*the*process*of*student*empowerment*well*before*the*trip*starts.**For*example,*students*could*help*with*recruitment*assistance*and*help*to*organize*preVtrip*orientation*sessions.**Jewish*Farm*School*staff*will*work*ahead*of*each*trip*with*our*Hillel*partner*staff*to*identify*and*coordinate*specific*areas*for*student*leadership*on*the*trip.****!

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Pluralism*Pluralism*is*one*of*Jewish*Farm*School*core*organizational*values.**For*the*OFAB*experience,*we*seek*to*promote*pluralistic*environment*in*a*variety*of*ways.**For*starters,*our*Group*Leaders*themselves*represent*diverse*backgrounds*and*offer*various*Jewish*and*environmental*perspectives.**During*the*course*of*the*week,*our*Group*Leaders*are*not*attempting*to*convince*the*trip*participants*of*a*single,*correct*way*of*thinking*or*behaving*in*the*world.**Rather,*the*Group*Leaders’*job*is*to*help*the*students*think*critically*about*the*complex*and*diverse*set*of*issues*that*they*will*be*exposed*to.**Participants*will*identify*and*analyze*different*points*of*view*to*gain*an*understanding*of*multiple*perspectives*on*the*subjects*of*food*systems,*Jewish*observance*and*ethical*living.!

Reflection***Jewish*Farm*School*values*scheduled*time*for*reflection*as*a*key*component*of*the*OFAB*experience.*OFAB*participants*have*the*opportunity*for*selfVreflection*through*prayer,*solitary*sitVspots*in*nature*and*scheduled*journaling*time.*OFAB*participants*also*have*time*to*reflect*on*their*experience*through*group*discussions*and*oneVonVone*time*with*the*Jewish*Farm*School*educators.*******************************

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**Sample Itinerary NOTE:*While*this*itinerary*is*representative*of*Jewish*Farm*School*service*learning*programs,*your*actual*itinerary*will*vary*according*to*the*location,*staff*and*time*of*year.*

Sunday** 4:00*PM*** * Arrival,*games,*Jewish*Farm*School*Orientation**

6:30*PM*** * Dinner*

7:45*PM*** * Opening*Educational*Session*

9:00*PM*** * Hang*Out*Time**

10:30*PM** * Laila*tov*

Monday**** 7:30–8:15*AM*** Avodat*HaVLev*(Davenning/Yoga/Meditation)*

8:15–9:00*AM*** Breakfast*

9:00*AM–12:00*PM*** Farm*Walk*and*Introduction*to*Local*Bioregion,*Work*Project*1**

12:30*PM*** * Lunch**

2:00–5:00*PM*** Work*Block*2**

5:00–6:30*PM*** Free*Time*

6:30–8:00*PM*** Dinner**

8:00–9:15*PM*** Educational*Session**

Tuesday*–*Thursday** 7:30–8:15*AM** Avodat*HaVLev*(Davenning/Yoga/Meditation)*


9:00–10:30*AM*** Educational*Session*

10:30*AM–12:00*PM*Work*Block*3*

12:30*PM*** * Lunch**

2:00V5:00*PM*** Work*Block*4**

5:00V6:30*PM*** Free*time*****

6:30V8:00*PM*** Dinner**

8:00V9:15*PM*** Educational*Session*

*******

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Friday*** 7:30–8:15*AM** Avodat*HaVLev*(Davenning/Yoga/Meditation)*


9:00*AM–12:00*PM***Work*Block*5**

12:30*PM*** * Lunch**

2:00–6:00*PM*** Shabbat*Prep*

6:30*PM*** * Candle*lighting*and*Kabbalat*Shabbat**

8:00*PM*** * Dinner,*Oneg/Evening*Program*

Shabbat** 7:30–9:00*AM*** Breakfast**

9:30*AM*** * Optional*Shabbat*Activities*(Davenning,*Hike,*Yoga,*Meditation)*

12:30*PM*** * Kiddush/Lunch*

2:00V6:00*PM*** Menuchah/Free*Time*

6:00*PM*** * Seudat*Shlishit**(Dinner)*with*Learning*and*Singing*

9:30*PM*** * Havdallah*and*Evening*Activity*

Pack*to*go*home*

Sunday*** 7:00–8:00*AM*** Breakfast*

8:00V9:00*** * Cleaning*and*Packing*

9:00–9:30*AM*** Closing*Ceremony*

9:30*AM*** * Leave*for*Airport*

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*

What Happens Next? Over*the*next*few*months,*Jewish*Farm*School*staff*will*work*with*your*appropriate*Hillel*staff*person*in*support*of*your*recruitment*and*planning*process.**In*the*next*few*pages,*you*will*find*information*that*will*guide*you*through*the*next*stages*of*our*work*together.*

Timeline*for*Recruiting*and*Program*Planning*

July*• Jewish*Farm*School*and*Hillel*partner*sign*partnership*agreement*• Partner*pays*deposit*Jewish*Farm*School*• Partner*identifies*primary*staff*person*to*serve*as*liaison*with*Jewish*Farm*School*staff*

AugustVSeptember*• Initial*conversation*between*Jewish*Farm*School*and*partner*staff*person*to*review*timeline,*

review*contract*and*answer*any*initial*questions*• Jewish*Farm*School*will*share*recruitment*materials*with*partner*(palm*card*and*poster*

templates)*• Hillel*begins*promotion*and*recruitment*efforts*

October*• Phone*call*to*discuss*registration*protocols*and*procedures*• Recruitment*continues*

November*• Recruitment*continues*

*December*

• Recruitment*continues*• Group*Leaders*bios*are*shared*with*partners**• Jewish*Farm*School*shares*preVtrip*orientation*resources***

*January*

• Final*recruitment*push*• Partner*promotion*and*recruitment*efforts*• Phone*call*to*review*recruitment*efforts*and*discuss*travel*logistics*• Second*partner*payments*due*Jan.*3*• Group*Leader*Training**

February*• Conference*calls*with*Jewish*Farm*School*staff,*Group*Leaders*and*Hillel*staff**• Partner*shares*any*special*needs,*interests*or*concerns*• Student*participation*data*due*(including*preVtrip*questionnaires*and*waivers)**• Partner*shares*all*travel*information*details*to*the*Jewish*Farm*School*staff*

• Jewish*Farm*School*shares*draft*trip*itinerary,*packing*list,*and*emergency*contact*information*

• Student*orientation*session/s*

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*March*

• Conversation*to*discuss*final*logistics*• Trips!*

*April*

• PostVTrip*debrief*!

Recruitment*and*Participant*Selection*The*bulk*of*the*recruitment*responsibilities*are*yours.**This*process*includes*promotion*and*marketing,*distribution*of*applications,*interviewing*candidates,*and*accepting*trip*participants.**Jewish*Farm*School*will*provide*guidance*and*support*through*this*process*but,*ultimately,*it*is*your*responsibility*to*recruit*the*group.**Below*we*offer*a*few*suggestions*for*recruitment*and*selection.*

Group*Size*and*Staff**Each*OFAB*trip*generally*consists*of*15V18*students,*2*Jewish*Farm*School*Group*Leaders,*and*1*Hillel*staff*person.*Refer*to*your*contract*for*the*agreed*upon*minimum*and*maximum*number*of*students*permitted*on*your*specific*trip.**In*cases*in*which*two*or*more*organizations*(such*as*two*Hillels)*partner*on*a*single*trip,*Jewish*Farm*School*and*the*partner*organizations*will*collectively*decide*how*many*partner*staff*will*accompany*the*group*and*which*partner*organization*will*provide*these*staff*members.**

Group*Composition*The*composition*of*the*group*can*make*or*break*the*program.**The*best*groups*support*and*challenge*each*other*and*maintain*a*sense*of*community*even*after*the*program*has*ended.**The*most*successful*groups*are*diverse.**Group*diversity*allows*for*many*opinions*and*perspectives*to*emerge,*and*helps*to*generate*rich*and*challenging*conversations.**We*suggest*that*you*try*to*select*applicants*who*represent*different*genders,*Jewish*backgrounds,*majors,*life*and*work*experiences,*and*perspectives.**We*encourage*you*to*attempt*to*form*a*core*team*of*people*who*commit*early*to*attending*the*program*and*who*are*excited*to*recruit*their*friends*and*peers.**This*core*team*should*be*composed*of*student*leaders*who*are*capable*of*inspiring*others*to*act.*It*is*crucial*that*all*participants*are*excited*to*take*part*in*all*aspects*of*the*program.**If*you*sense*that*an*applicant*is*not*genuinely*interested*in*participating*in*the*program,*but*is*applying*as*a*result*of*peer*pressure,*you*should*talk*with*the*participant*about*whether*s/he*is*truly*interested*in*the*themes*of*the*trip.**Partners*often*ask*whether*or*not*nonVJewish*students*can*participate.**These*trips*are*designed*for*Jewish*student*and,*as*such,*Jewish*students*are*our*primary*audience*for*these*trips.**If*you*are*interested*in*accepting*a*nonVJewish*student*for*participating*in*the*trip*you*must*first*contact*Nati*Passow*to*discuss*the*situation.****Participant*Applications*and*Fees*Please*note*the*following*important*information*regarding*applications*and*fees:**

The*partnering*Hillel*organization*must*collect*all*the*participant*fees*and*participants*should*not*send*money*directly*to*the*Jewish*Farm*School.*

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Students*will*not*be*allowed*to*participate*in*the*trip*unless*we*have*received*all*of*the*required*registration*data*including*the*preVtrip*questionnaire,*medical*information*and*waivers.**Hillel*partners*are*responsible*for*seeing*that*all*of*this*required*information*is*completed*and*shared*with*JFS.*

Staff*members*accompanying*the*group*must*also*fill*out*designated*application*materials*and*waivers.*

Program*Fees*We*realize*that*the*program*fees*may*seem*expensive*to*you*and*to*your*interested*students.**You*should*keep*in*mind*that*the*perVparticipant*fees*that*we*pass*along*to*each*Hillel*typically*reflects*less!than!half!of!our!true!perNparticipant!cost.!*It*may*be*helpful*for*you*to*share*with*your*students*that*the*trip*cost*is*highly*subsidized.***!!!

The*program*fees*set*by*Jewish*Farm*School*cover*all*of*the*costs*of*the*program,*including*airport*transfers*to*and*from*your*service*site,*local*transportation,*meals,*accommodations,*two*trained*Jewish*Farm*School*Group*Leaders,*any*necessary*materials*for*our*work*projects,*facilitation*of*an*inVdepth*educational*curriculum*and*copies*of*our*Student*Resource*Manual*for*all*participants.**The*program*fees*do!not!include*airfare*to*and*from*your*service*site,*transportation*to*and*from*the*participant’s*home*airport,*flight*change*or*cancellation*fees,*or*food/other*items*purchased*in*the*airport.**If*a*participant*chooses*to*check*luggage,*s/he*or*your*organization*is*responsible*for*paying*any*associated*fees.*

Fundraising*Even*though*Jewish*Farm*School*is*able*to*heavily*subsidize*the*cost*of*most*of*our*service*learning*trips,*we*recognize*that*the*program*fees*will*still*seem*expensive*for*some*participants*and*partner*organizations.**In*some*cases,*you*may*be*able*to*further*subsidize*participation*in*the*program.**In*other*cases,*participants*will*have*to*seek*their*own*funds.**Below*are*some*suggestions*for*fundraising*for*these*programs.**We!strongly!recommend*that*every*participant*be*required*to*pay*something*out*of*pocket*for*the*program,*as*participants*are*less*likely*to*value*a*free*program.*

Participant*Fundraising*Ideas*for*Students:* Ask*home*synagogues*for*scholarships,*rabbis*often*can*give*money*for*such*programs*from*

their*discretionary*funds.*

Ask*local*Federations*for*scholarships.*

Ask*school*departments*and*student*activity*groups*for*funding.**Students*majoring*in*environmental*studies,*agriculture,*urban*studies,*sociology*or*related*fields*may*be*able*to*receive*research*funding*from*their*departments.*

Ask*friends*and*family*members*to*sponsor*their*participation.*

Bake*sales*

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Orientation Session(s)*Jewish*Farm*School*requires*that*you*hold*at*least*one*orientation*session*several*weeks*before*the*program’s*departure*date.*This*orientation*session*is*mandatory*for*all*participants.**We*strongly*encourage*you*to*hold*more!than!one*orientation*session.**Jewish*Farm*School*will*provide*you*with*the*necessary*documents*for*the*orientation*session*and*is*happy*to*discuss*ideas*prior*to*the*meeting.*

The*orientation*session(s)*should*include:*

Group*building*time*

Discussion*of*expectations*for*the*program*and*for*what*happens*after*the*trip*

Basic*information*about*the*service*site,*the*community,*what*to*pack*and*where*to*be*when*

An*educational*component*related*to*the*themes*of*the*trip.**An*appropriate*topic*would*be*to*frame*service*of*the*other*in*the*Jewish*tradition.*

At*the*orientation*session,*you*should*distribute*and*review*packing*lists,*draft*itinerary*and*basic*information*about*the*service*site*and*Jewish*Farm*School*

Review*of*key*trip*policies:*

No*personal*visitors*during*program*

No*personal*sideVtrips*during*the*program*(unless*previously*approved*by*the*Jewish*Farm*School*and*Hillel*staff)*

No*drugs*or*alcohol.**Violation*will*result*in*the*participant*being*removed*from*the*program.*

Jewish*Farm*School’s*kashrut*policy**

Typically,*the*staff*member*from*your*organization*who*will*be*participating*in*the*trip*will*lead*the*orientation*session(s).**When*time*and*geography*allow,*a*Jewish*Farm*School*staff*member*or*program*leader*may*lead*or*take*part*in*the*orientation*session/s.*

PreVDeparture*Phone*Call*Approximately*twoVthree*weeks*before*the*program’s*start*date*we*will*hold*a*conference*call*in*which*the*partner*staff*member*attending*the*program,*the*two*Jewish*Farm*School*Group*Leaders*and*Alternative*Break*Program*Manager*will*review*all*of*the*program’s*details.**The*call*takes*approximately*one*hour*and*covers:*1. Introductions*2. Itinerary*runVthrough*3. Review*of*curricular*sessions*for*the*program*4. Agreements*about*how*program*leaders*and*partner*staff*will*work*together*5. Any*special*needs*or*concerns*regarding*the*group*

Group*Travel*If*you*will*be*flying*to*the*service*site,*Jewish*Farm*School*will*tell*you*which*airport*is*the*most*convenient*and*will*give*you*guidelines*about*arrival*and*departure*times.**We*recommend*taking*

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direct*flights*whenever*possible,*in*order*to*cut*down*on*general*confusion*and*the*possibility*of*missing*connections.**Please*do*not*book*tickets*without*confirming*flight*times*with*Jewish*Farm*School.**If*you*do*book*flights*that*do*not*correspond*with*the*agreed*upon*schedule,*you*will*be*responsible*for*change*fees,*program*cancellation*fees,*or*any*other*associated*costs.**If*you*will*be*driving*to*the*service*site,*we*will*coordinate*with*you*when*to*arrive*and*when*to*leave.**You*will*be*responsible*for*arranging*for*buses*or*carpools*to*and*from*the*service*site.**Jewish*Farm*School*will*maintain*responsibility*for*transportation*during*the*course*of*the*program.*

Emergency*Numbers*and*Communications*during*the*Program*Before*the*program*we*will*provide*you*with*a*list*of*emergency*contact*information,*including*the*cell*phone*numbers*of*group*leaders*who*will*be*accompanying*the*group*and*cell*phone*numbers*for*the*inVoffice*Jewish*Farm*School*staff.**We*will*ask*you*to*provide*us*with*the*cell*phone*number*of*the*accompanying*staff*member*as*well*as*the*cell*phone*number*of*a*senior*member*of*your*staff*back*on*campus*who*will*be*available*during*the*program.**Please*leave*a*copy*of*your*group*list,*participant*emergency*contacts*and*travel*information*with*this*person.***In*an*effort*to*build*group*cohesion*and*cultivate*a*powerful*immersive*experience,*we*ask*trip*participants*to*store*away*their*cell*phones*for*the*duration*of*the*program.**If*a*parent,*other*relative,*or*someone*else*at*home*needs*to*contact*a*trip*participant*in*the*case*of*an*emergency,*this*person*should*contact*the*Program*Manager*([email protected]).**The*Program*Manager*will*contact*the*Group*Leaders*and*Hillel*representative*to*convey*any*necessary*information.********!*

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Follow-Up Programs We*approach*our*service*learning*programs*not*as*a*standalone*experience,*but*as*the*beginning*or*continuation*of*a*lifelong*engagement*with*the*intersections*of*Judaism,*the*natural*world*and*social*justice.**As*the*staff*member*who*will*be*continuing*to*work*with*the*participants*once*they*return*home,*you*have*a*special*opportunity*to*build*on*the*powerful*experiences*the*trip*offers.**We*hope*that*you*will*assume*responsibility*for*helping*participants*to*draw*further*meaning*from*their*experience*and*helping*them*to*discover*ways*to*continue*their*learning*and*engagement*in*the*areas*of*interest*that*the*trip*sparks.**Jewish*Farm*School*staff*will*be*happy*to*offer*suggestions*on*followVup*activities.****During*the*course*of*the*program,*participants*will*take*part*in*a*“Bringing*it*Home”*session*that*asks*students*to*begin*to*conceive*of*specific*projects*they*might*engage*upon*returning*home.**The*Group*Leaders*will*assist*in*this*exercise*by*sharing*numerous*examples*of*inspiring*opportunities*for*engagement.**As*part*of*a*closing*ritual,*participants*may*be*asked*to*make*a*(nonVbinding)*commitment*in*connection*to*their*personal*trip*followVup.**When*participants*first*return*to*campus*from*the*OFAB*trip*they*will*be*excited*to*talk*about*their*experience.**Your*challenge*is*to*capitalize*on*this*enthusiasm*before*work,*exams*and*other*commitments*supplant*their*best*intentions.**When*possible,*we*strongly!suggest*setting*up*some*followVup*activities*before*the*trip*leaves*and*preVscheduling*a*followVup*meeting*for*all*participants*in*the*program.**Some*possibilities*for*participant*followVup*work*include:*

Writing*an*article*in*the*school*or*local*Jewish*paper*

Hosting*an*organic*food*potVluck*to*discuss*food*justice*issues*

Shopping*and*making*connections*at*a*local*farmers*market*

Joining*a*Community*Supported*Agriculture*project*

Establishing*a*food*justice*club*on*campus*or*in*the*community*

Starting*a*garden**

Learning*about*the*campus’*food*system**

Doing*a*natural*building*project*

Learning*and*volunteering*at*a*food*pantry*and/or*in*areas*that*need*healthy*produce*

Fundraising*for*foodVjustice*organizations*

Volunteering*on*a*farm*

Screening*a*food*related*movie*such*as*Food*Inc.,*followed*by*a*guided*discussion*

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Participant*Evaluation*The*Jewish*Farm*School*is*an*organization*committed*to*always*striving*to*improve*our*programs.**To*this*end,*we*depend*on*our*participants*to*provide*us*with*honest*and*detailed*feedback.**We*have*dedicated*time*and*resources*into*developing*an*effective*evaluation*process,*including*a*participant*evaluation.**We*ask*that*the*partner*organizations*support*us*by*requiring*the*participants*to*fill*out*the*evaluation*to*be*administered*towards*the*end*of*each*trip.*

Partner*Staff*Evaluation*Similarly,*it*is*important*to*us*to*learn*from*our*professional*partners,*and*therefore,*we*have*created*a*Partner*Staff*Evaluation.**You*will*receive*this*form*postVprogram,*and*we*ask*that*you*email*this*back*to*the*Program*Manager*within*two*weeks*of*your*program.**

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What They’re Saying: Excerpts from Past Participant Evaluations

Personal*Growth*“I*have*never*learned*nor*experienced*such*a*wide*range*of*subjects*and*activities*in*a*week*in*my*life.*I*have*been*indelibly*impacted*for*the*better*by*Jewish*Farm*School.”****“Rediscovering*who*I*amV*sounds*crazy*but*in*the*fastVpaced*city*campus,*I*often*feel*isolated*and*deprived*of*meaningful*human*interactions.*Through*service,*nature,*and*community,*I*was*reminded*why*we*are*here.”**

Social*Justice*and*Jewish*Learning*“This*program*expanded*my*awareness*of*food*related*issues,*taught*me*valuable*skills*sets*for*working*with*the*land,*and*deepened*my*connection*to*Judaism.”**"Jewish*values*can*instill*greater*meaning*and*significance*in*our*social*justice*work.*As*protectors*over*the*earth,*we*are*responsible*for*inheriting*the*wisdom*of*our*tradition*to*fulfill*those*roles*as*best*we*can."*Eliza*Scheffler,*sophomore*

Jewish*Identity*and*Community*"We*made*a*new*siddur*for*our*Shabbat.**It*was*awesome*and*empowering*V*literally*creating*a*Jewish*religious*experience*from*preVexisting*sources*through*a*pluralistic,*democratic*process"*Yale,*junior**“Jewish*Farm*School*is*a*powerful*experience*that*all*Jews,*regardless*of*affiliation*and*farming*or*environmental*interest,*need*to*have.*This*program*provides*new*perspectives*and*experiences*that*everyone*should*have.”**“The*trip*made*me*realize*even*more*than*I*knew*before*how*central*farming*is*to*the*Jewish*ethos*and*how*distant*more*Jews*are*today*from*that*ethos.*It*has*helped*me*better*appreciate*where*my*food*comes*from*and*the*effort*of*the*farmers*who*grow*it.*Also,*being*in*nature*enhanced*the*depth*of*my*prayers*and*connected*me*more*to*the*words*of*nature*and*food.”*****

Bringing*It*Back*to*Campus*“I*feel*more*confident*with*the*resources*I’ve*gained*on*this*trip*through*the*facilitators,*peer*interactions,*and*handsVon*experiences*to*return*to*campus*and*continue*initiatives*and*learning*on*crucial*modern*environmental*issues*that*relate*to*ancient*Judaism.”*Rebecca*Lustig,*junior**“I*want*to*find*where*I*can*buy*organic*foods*and*cancel*my*meal*plan,*help*plant*a*garden*on*the*roof*of*Hillel,*use*less*water/*turn*off*lights,*get*involved!*And*find*people*who*care!”

Jewish Farm School Organic Farming Alternative Break Participant Focus Logic Model

Background:

Since 2008, the Jewish Farm School’s Organic Farm Alternative Break (OFAB) has attracted over 300 students from over 35 different campuses across the country. Participants travel to small-scale, rural and urban organic farms and gardens for a weeklong experience during which they engage in volunteer service, learn sustainable farming techniques and sustainable living skills and cultivate a model, pluralistic Jewish community. Hands-on service experiences are thoughtfully integrated with learning about local and global food system issues and in connection to Jewish values and tradition.

Orientation:

The following logic model is primarily oriented to the participant experience. We also include our principal intended outputs and outcomes from the vantage point of our partner farms and partner organizations. We see this as a work in progress and intend to develop complimentary logic models over the coming year that focus more directly on the experience of our service recipients.

This logic model is oriented to a per-trip scale and with the expectation of 7 trips over the course of the AB season. Each trip has between 15-18 student participants.

BTW informing change 1

Jewish Farm School Organic Farming Alternative Break Participant Focus Logic Model

NEED • There are substantial numbers of Jewish students who

identify as environmentalists and social activists and who care deeply about agricultural/food issues but are not connected to Jewish life and who don’t see Judaism as relevant to their lives

• Without a personal and direct experience of agriculture many aspects of Jewish life and tradition, such as the agricultural roots of the Jewish calendar, remain untapped

• Many Jewish students are profoundly disconnected from the basic processes from which they derive benefit such as food production

• Agriculture and the current food system is responsible for 1/3 of climate change emissions, massive soil depletion and pollution, worker abuse, leaves much of the world hungry AND many students don’t know about this

• Small-scale community farms and food security non-profit organizations struggle financially and often lack needed labor

• Each year, millions of pounds of edible fruits and vegetables go to waste on farms simply because it is not economically viable for farmers to harvest this produce. Many farmers are more than happy for the produce that they are not able to harvest to be donated to people in need if they have a volunteer work force able to do the harvesting.

• 48.8 million Americans, 1 out of every 6, are food insecure1

and more than 23 million Americans live in food deserts (at least 1 mile from ready access to fresh, healthy food)2

1 http://www.ers.usda.gov/briefing/foodsecurity/stats_graphs.htm 2 http://apps.ams.usda.gov/fooddeserts/foodDeserts.aspx

CONTEXT

• There is increasing support for sustainable agriculture and food system reform among the US populace even as powerful, entrenched interest groups remain in opposition

• The Jewish environmental movement, and the Jewish community more broadly, is paying more attention to food justice issues

• Paradigm of alternative breaks is gaining popularity on campuses and there is a stronger demand for our services each year

• There is more demand than capacity for Jewish service learning experiences. According to a 2008 report, 86% of immersive service learning programs reported having more applicants than they can accept or being able to fill their program slots

ASSUMPTIONS • Our national and global food systems are

broken • Human beings have a responsibility to

produce food in ways that uphold the dignity of the involved workers, is healthy for human consumption and ensures the health of the planet

• All people have a right to access healthy, affordable food

• Jewish values and tradition have a positive, meaningful role to play in informing contemporary conversation and practice around food and environmental issues

• Food and farming are powerful nexus points for building community

• Skillfully framed farming experiences have the potential to be emotionally powerful and deeply impactful for participants

• Through the process of gaining direct exposure to agricultural processes, Jewish students will have a renewed and deeper connection to Jewish life and tradition

• Connecting people to the process of growing and cooking food is important and will transform their relationship in positive ways to the earth as a whole

• The environmental crisis will not be fixed through technology and legislation alone, but will require a spiritual transformation in terms of how we experience ourselves as part of the world

MODELS

• Secular models of alternative breaks, such as Habitat for Humanity, and the Hands-On Network

• Jewish models of alternative breaks, including AJWS and Jewish Funds for Justice

• Cultural Mentoring philosophy and pedagogy, as developed by the Vermont Wilderness School, among others

• Secular farm-based education organizations such as The Mountain School, The Farm School, Farm and Wilderness, and The Food Project

Jewish Farm School Logic Model Overview

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INPUTS (Per-trip except where noted)

• JFS Director of Programs (50% FTE) and JFS Com/Op Assoc. (25% FTE)

• 2 JFS Group Leaders (~10 hrs pre-trip plus 4 day training, 1 wk in the field and 5 hrs post-trip)

• 1-2 Hillel Professional/s (prep and post trip work and 1 wk in the field)

• 15-20 North American Jewish college students with an interest in the nexus of Jewish life and tradition, agriculture, the environment and social justice

• 1-2 Campus Hillel partners • Consultation and coordination with the

Hillel International Center • Program supplies/food • Curriculum (ongoing curriculum

development) • 1-3 host farm/s and garden/s and their

staff • 1-5 local partners (non-profits, community

leaders, etc.) • 1 lodging site per trip • Total budget of $125, 565 for 7 trips (~

$1150 per participant inclusive of all administrative fees with ~50% covered in grants and ~50% from program fees)

• 4 day Group Leader Training led by JFS senior staff

• Consultants and colleagues (IJSL providers, secular farm-based educators, professional consultants)

PARTICIPANT ACTIVITIES

• Orientation session/s (at least 1 session held on campus prior to the trips)

• Group building activities • Farming service work (e.g. planting, harvesting, weeding, bed

shaping, light construction, etc.) • Group cooking and meals • Educational sessions (on topics having to do with sustainable

agriculture, food justice, and the intersection of Jewish life and tradition with these themes)

• Sustainable skills workshops (e.g. food preservation, composting, baking)

• Shabbat preparation and celebration (e.g. prayer, hikes, Jewish learning)

• Morning spiritual practice (e.g. prayer, yoga, meditation) • Guided Reflection (e.g. journaling, structured debriefs) • “Free time” (we find that including a window of daily unstructured time

allows the students to process and assimilate their experiences and advance their learning through informal conversation, time for journaling and an opportunity to recharge)

• Field trips (e.g. local farms and gardens, farmers markets, non-profit agricultural and food justice organizations)

OUTPUTS • 1-5 pre-trip orientation sessions • 25-30 hrs of volunteer service work (per student for a total of ~400

hrs of service per trip)3

• 23 participant led meals (2-3 students per meal) • 5-7 educational classes/workshops (~1 per day) • 2-3 sustainable skills workshops • 5-8 peer-led Shabbat experiences • Morning spiritual practice each day (optional) Host Farm and/or Partner Organization4

• $7.25hr (minimum wage) x 25hrs x 16 participants = $2900 of volunteer service provided 5

SHORT-TERM OUTCOMES5

Participant Knowledge7

• 100% are familiar with key characteristics and challenges of sustainable agriculture models • 100% are aware of the many components of a food system and can identify related social,

environmental, economic and political issues • 75% are equipped to trace their food from farm to table • 100% have basic understanding of specific key social, environmental, economic, cultural and

political considerations affecting the host site and local community • 100% can identify specific ways in which Jewish texts and tradition relate to contemporary

food justice and environmental issues Participant Skills8 • 100% have learned fundamentals of one or more basic agricultural skills such as planting,

weeding, harvesting, etc. • 100% have learned fundamentals of one or more sustainable living skills such as cooking,

food preserving or composting Participant Attitudes9

• 100% feel that Judaism is relevant to environmental and food justice related issues • 50% feel a stronger connection to Jewish life and tradition • 75% are interested in learning more about food system issues and agriculture • 100% have greater appreciation for the effort that goes into sustainable food production • 25% feel inspired to find ways to positively influence one or more aspects of their home/

campus food systems • 100% feel that they made a meaningful contribution to the host farm/s Host Farm and/or Partner Organization10

• 100% are able to demonstrate the positive impact of our service work. For example: • They are able to identify how our students’ service led directly to people in need being fed

or their lives otherwise being improved in some clear and measurable way • They are able to point to food that was harvested and donated to people in need which

would have otherwise been wasted • They are able to identify service work that results in making the farming operation more

ecologically sustainable (e.g. preserves biodiversity, reduces waste and pollution, improves soil retention)

• 100% perceive our group as a helpful partner with genuine desire to learn about pressing local issues and address community needs

• 100% value the service work provided • 85% are interested in working with our organization again in the future

MEDIUM-TERM OUTCOMES11

Participant Behavior12

• 50% have changed their food purchasing habits based on their participation in the program

• 75% share some of their new knowledge and skills with peers, friends and/or family

• 25% become engaged (or more engaged) in some food or farming related issue on campus/at home

NOTES 3 The bulk of our service work is in support of registered non-profit organizations 4 Host Farm outputs and outcomes will be measured by interviews and surveys 5 Labor wages vary farm to farm but here we make a conservative estimate 6 Short term outcomes” measured as 1-3 months post trip experience 7 Knowledge outcomes will be measured by post trip surveying 8 Skill outcomes will be measured by post trip surveying 9 Attitude outcomes will be measured by post trip surveying

10 For some service trips, our primary local host partner is a non-profit community organization that works on issues of food security rather than a farm or garden. In these cases, the partner community organization helps connect us to farming service opportunities with communities of need with whom they work.

11 “Medium term outcomes” measured as 3-12 months post trip experience 12 Behavioral outcomes will be measured by a combination of post trip surveying and indicated by student post-trip activities

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Documents

JFS Alternative Break Welcome Packet 2013 2014