Sicangu Co Garden Education Support Coordinator (VISTA)

POSTED: March 30th, 2023

*This position is through AmeriCorp VISTA

Member Duties:

Increase the capacity for the Keya Wakpala Gardens to be able to offer basic gardening education for community participants. Increase the capacity of local school systems interested in developing school gardens, indoor hydroponics systems, and other small-scale food production methods. Increase community engagement with community members on Rosebud by coordinating garden related events such as, but not limited to, Unci Maka Week, Greenhouse open houses, and community volunteer days. 

Program Benefits:

• Stipend

• Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend

• Training

• Relocation Allowance

• Living Allowance

• Health Coverage

About the Siċaƞġu Food Sovereignty Initiative:

Located on the Rosebud Reservation in south-central South Dakota, the Sicangu Food Sovereignty Initiative (SFSI) works to build an indigenous food system that promotes health, self-reliance, and sustainability for the Sicangu Lakota Oyate. The colonization of the Lakota people brought about a radical shift in diet and lifestyle, which has led to an alarming increase in rates of type II diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. The FSI operates on the individual and community levels to grow a food system that reflects Lakota virtues and culture. This includes operating a one-acre community garden, sponsoring a weekly farmers market, working with elders to revitalize traditional foods/medicines and knowledge, and developing educational programs for the community. The VISTA member will assist in this work by building the capacity of the Food Sovereignty Initiative through assisting with community outreach and implementation of community programming.

See full VISTA description and apply below!