WE NEED YOUR HELP
Make a Real Difference in Cambridge!
Want to impact your community in a meaningful way? At Cambridge Farm to School, you can!
Our programs bring hands-on food education, sustainability, and healthy habits to
students and families.
We’re looking for volunteers and board members ready to lead, inspire, and make change happen.
Whether you have a few hours a week or want to help guide the organization,
your skills and passion can shape the future of our community.
BOARD MEMBER & PROGRAM LEAD
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our Board of Directors. We are looking for 1–2 board members who are also interested in leading one of our core programs to make a direct impact on students and the community. About the Board: Board members provide governance, strategic oversight, and support to ensure the success and growth of Cambridge Farm to School. This is a hands-on, working board, meaning members actively help run programs while providing leadership, guidance, and accountability. Role Overview: As a Board Member and Program Lead, you will: Serve on the Board of Directors, attending monthly board meetings and participating in key decisions Take the lead on at least one program, such as: Chef in the Classroom (Elementary, Middle, or High School) Chef at the Pantry Hydroponics Steward Marketing & Communications Grant Writing Oversee program planning, coordination, and execution Coordinate volunteers and work with staff, chefs, and teachers as needed Report program updates to the board and contribute to strategic planning Skills & Qualifications: Passion for youth education, local food systems, and community engagement Strong organizational, communication, or leadership skills Willingness to dedicate time to both board governance and program management Experience in relevant areas (teaching, cooking, gardening, communications, grant writing) is a plus but not required Time Commitment: Board Meetings: Monthly (typically 1–2 hours) Program Leadership: Varies by program (1–5 hours/week on average, depending on program and time of year) Training & Support: Board members and program leads receive training, guidance, and ongoing support from the board and staff. This is a rewarding, hands-on leadership opportunity for someone who wants to combine governance with direct impact—helping students, teachers, and the community while shaping the future of Cambridge Farm to School. Join Our Board & Lead a Program!
GRANT WRITING VOLUNTEER
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented volunteer to assist with grant research and applications. This role is essential for helping us secure funding to support programs, events, and community initiatives. Role Overview: The Grant Writing Volunteer will help identify funding opportunities, draft and submit grant applications, and support the organization in securing resources to grow and sustain our programs. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys writing, research, and making a direct impact on community programs. Responsibilities include: Research and identify grant opportunities that align with Cambridge Farm to School’s mission Assist with writing and editing grant proposals Track deadlines and coordinate submissions Communicate with board members and staff to gather necessary program and financial information Provide support for any follow-up reports or documentation required by funders Skills & Qualifications: Strong writing and editing skills Detail-oriented and organized Research skills for identifying funding opportunities Experience with grant writing is a plus but not required Training & Support: Training, templates, and guidance will be provided by the board and staff. Time Commitment: Flexible, depending on grant deadlines; estimated 3–5 hours per month, with more time during active grant writing periods. This is a rewarding volunteer role for someone who wants to help secure funding that supports educational programs, healthy food initiatives, and community engagement in Cambridge.
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS VOLUNTEER
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking a motivated and dependable volunteer to support our social media, website, and communications efforts. This role is essential for helping us share programs, events, and the impact of our work with the community. Role Overview: The Marketing & Communications Volunteer will manage our online presence, create engaging content, and help keep our community informed and connected. This is a great opportunity for someone who loves social media, writing, and helping nonprofits grow their reach. Responsibilities include: Create and schedule 3–5 social media posts per week Write blubs and copy for posts, newsletters, and website updates Assist with website updates, including pages, event listings, and subscriber lists (Wix experience a bonus, but training provided) Build and manage email subscriber lists and send monthly newsletters Promote programs and events online and through email communications Attend monthly board meetings to stay informed on programs, events, and organizational updates Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure consistent branding and messaging Skills & Qualifications: Experience with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) Strong writing and communication skills Ability to create simple graphics or visuals as needed Reliable, dependable, and able to manage deadlines Familiarity with website management (Wix experience a plus) Training & Support: Training and guidance will be provided. No prior nonprofit communications experience required—just enthusiasm, creativity, and a commitment to keeping our community informed. Time Commitment: Flexible, estimated 1–3 hours per week, with additional time during program promotion periods. This is a rewarding volunteer role for someone who enjoys writing, social media, and sharing stories, and wants to help Cambridge Farm to School grow and engage with the community.
HYDROPONICS LEAD STEWARD VOLUNTEER
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking a Hydroponic Growing Steward with a passion for gardening, sustainability, and hands-on learning. This role supports and helps grow our hydroponics program, currently operating one tower system at the Cambridge Elementary School (CES), with plans to expand. This position serves as the program coordinator and grower, overseeing day-to-day care of the system while collaborating with the Elementary School Green Team, classrooms, and food service staff. Responsibilities include: Managing planting and harvesting schedules (when and how much to plant) Purchasing necessary supplies (seeds, plugs, fertilizer) Coordinating seed planting and harvests with the Green Team lead and students Communicating harvest timing with the Food Service Director Monitoring and maintaining water, nutrient, and system levels several times per week Cleaning and maintaining the system between plantings Supporting system upkeep and overall plant health Education & Community Connection: Communicate with interested teachers to support classroom participation and lesson plans using the hydroponics system as a hands-on learning tool. Growth Goal: Support the expansion of the hydroponics program by assisting with the addition of new systems in more schools and community locations over time. Time Commitment: Approximately 1–5 hours per week, with flexibility depending on the growing cycle and program needs. Training & Support: No prior hydroponics experience is required. Training and ongoing support will be provided. Board Connection: Attend monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings and provide a brief update or report on the hydroponics program. This is a rewarding, hands-on volunteer role ideal for someone who enjoys working with plants, collaborating with others, and helping students connect to food and sustainable growing practices.
HYDROPONICS GROWING SUPPORT VOLUNTEER
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking reliable, hands-on volunteers to assist with maintaining our hydroponic growing systems. This role supports our Hydroponic Steward and is perfect for someone who enjoys working with plants and systems without the responsibility of planning or coordination. Role Overview Hydroponics Support Volunteers help keep our systems running smoothly by assisting with routine maintenance tasks. Volunteers work under the direction of the Hydroponic Steward and do not manage schedules, programs, or meetings. Responsibilities Check water and nutrient levels Assist with cleaning and basic system upkeep Help monitor plant health Support harvesting or replanting as needed Follow guidance from the Hydroponic Steward What This Role Is NOT No coordinating or scheduling No program planning No meetings or administrative duties No prior hydroponic experience required. Training and ongoing support will be provided. Time Commitment Flexible and task-based Typically 1–2 hours at a time, as needed Ideal For Plant lovers Hands-on learners Anyone curious about hydroponics or sustainable growing Volunteers looking for a simple, supportive role. This is a great opportunity to learn about hydroponics while supporting student education and sustainability efforts.
CHEF IN THE CLASSROOM PROGRAM COORDINATOR-ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
(Volunteer Position)
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking an organized, community-minded volunteer to serve as the Chef in the Classroom (CIC) Program Coordinator at Cambridge Elementary School (CES). This well-loved program has been engaging students for over fourteen years and is one of our most successful initiatives. Program Overview: Chef in the Classroom was introduced at Cambridge Elementary School in 2012 and has been led by local chef Gene Gowan, who develops all recipes and conducts each demonstration. The program introduces students to a variety of foods, where they come from, and how they are grown, while intentionally tying each lesson to classroom curriculum. Each grade participates in one session per year. For example, during the third-grade cultural unit, Chef Gene prepares hummus and falafel while discussing Middle Eastern spices and how they traveled around the world. During each session, students explore how math, science, and reading naturally connect to cooking and the kitchen. They get to taste the prepared food and take the recipe home. One of the most rewarding moments is seeing students who claim they “hate vegetables” eagerly try—and often finish—a dish made entirely of vegetables. Role Overview: The Program Coordinator serves as the main point of contact and organizer for all Chef in the Classroom events at CES, ensuring each session runs smoothly and effectively supports both the students and classroom teachers. Responsibilities include: Coordinating and scheduling each Chef in the Classroom sessions with teachers from each grade and Chef Gene Gowan Communicating event details with the school principal and office manager Sending recipe sheets to office manager in advance of each session Ordering and organizing all supplies needed for each event Coordinating a volunteer (typically a parent) to assist during each classroom session Coordinating with the Treasurer for ingredient receipts and Chef Gene’s payments Supporting the continued success and growth of this long-standing program. Education & Community Connection: Communicate with teachers and school staff to support classroom participation and the hands-on learning. Growth Goal: Support the expansion of the program by assisting and coordinating with the middle and high school chef in the classroom program volunteers and farm to school board. Time Commitment: Approximately 1–5 hours per month, with flexibility depending on program needs. Training & Support: Training and guidance will be provided. No prior experience in food education is required—just strong organizational skills, communication abilities, and a passion for supporting local food education. Board Connection: Attend monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings and provide brief updates on the Chef in the Classroom program at the Elementary School. This is a rewarding volunteer role ideal for someone who enjoys organization, working with schools, supporting local food education, and helping students make meaningful connections between learning and healthy eating.
CHEF IN THE CLASSROOM PROGRAM COORDINATOR-
HIGH SCHOOL
(Volunteer Position)
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking a motivated, organized, and passionate volunteer to serve as the High School Chef in the Classroom (CIC) Program Coordinator. This hands-on program provides Freshman students with practical culinary skills, nutrition education, and lifelong connections to healthy food. Program Overview: The High School Chef in the Classroom program was developed by Chef Gene Gowan and Jacy Eckerman, who designed a curriculum featuring healthy breakfast, lunch, and snack recipes. Each semester, the program is offered to all Freshman through the required Freshman Health Class, ensuring every student experiences this four-day culinary program. During the program, students: Practice knife skills, following recipes, and general kitchen safety. Prepare and taste a variety of dishes, including breakfast items, soups, salads, sandwiches, and “Chickpeas Three Ways” Receive a personalized Chef in the Classroom recipe book created by Farm to School each semester, containing all CIC recipes to date, pantry essentials, kitchen tips, a glossary, and additional recipes to inspire cooking at home This program builds on skills learned in elementary CIC classes, giving students continuity and hands-on experience in the kitchen. Role Overview: The Program Coordinator is responsible for re-establishing and managing the High School CIC program. This includes interviewing and hiring a new chef, coordinating with staff, managing curriculum and recipe materials, and overseeing the logistics of each semester’s events. Responsibilities include: Interviewing and selecting a chef to lead the program, with support from the board and a list of potential candidates Coordinating and scheduling two four-day CIC events each semester with the Freshman Health teacher and booking the school food lab Creating, printing, and distributing the CIC recipe books for each participating student, working within a budget Coordinating volunteers to assist during each event Managing ingredient orders and chef payments, coordinating with the Treasurer Ensuring smooth communication with the chef, teachers, principal, and other school staff Reporting updates on the program at monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings Education & Community Connection: Communicate with teachers and school staff to support classroom participation and the hands-on learning. Growth Goal: Support the expansion of the program by assisting and coordinating with the elementary and middle school chef in the classroom program volunteers and farm to school board. Time Commitment: Approximately 2–8 hours per month, with flexibility depending on program needs. Training & Support: Training and guidance will be provided. No prior experience in food education is required—just strong organizational skills, communication abilities, and a passion for supporting local food education. Board Connection: Attend monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings and provide brief updates on the Chef in the Classroom program at the High School. This is a rewarding volunteer role for someone who is organized, loves food education, and wants to make a direct impact on Freshman students by teaching them practical cooking skills, nutrition, and confidence in the kitchen.
CHEF IN THE CLASSROOM PROGRAM COORDINATOR-
NIKOLAY MIDDLE SCHOOL
(Volunteer Position)
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking a motivated, organized, and passionate volunteer to lead the launch of the Chef in the Classroom (CIC) program at Nikolay Middle School (NMS) starting in Fall 2026. This program brings hands-on food education and healthy cooking experiences to middle school students, connecting nutrition with classroom learning. Program Overview: The Nikolay Middle School CIC program will introduce students to healthy recipes, kitchen skills, and nutrition education through a hands-on, engaging format. As the program grows, it will begin with 7th grade health classes in Fall 2026 (4 events) and expand to include 8th grade by 2028 (8 events). Role Overview: The Program Coordinator will serve as the lead organizer, responsible for developing, scheduling, and managing all aspects of the program in partnership with a chef, the NMS health teachers, and school staff. This is a unique opportunity to help establish and grow a long-term program that supports students’ health, culinary skills, and confidence in the kitchen. Responsibilities include: Recruiting and hiring a chef to lead the program Collaborating with the chef to create a curriculum that is engaging, educational, and board-approved Coordinating schedules with the health teacher, Chef, and school staff Preparing and distributing recipe sheets for students Managing reimbursements, and chef payments in coordination with the Treasurer Coordinating volunteers to assist with classroom events Reporting program updates and outcomes at monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings Education & Community Connection: Communicate with teachers and school staff to support classroom participation and the hands-on learning. Growth Goal: Support the expansion of the program by assisting and coordinating with the elementary and high school chef in the classroom program volunteers and farm to school board. Time Commitment: Approximately 1–8 hours per month, with flexibility depending on program needs. Training & Support: Training and guidance will be provided. No prior experience in food education is required—just strong organizational skills, communication abilities, and a passion for supporting local food education. Board Connection: Attend monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings and provide brief updates on the Chef in the Classroom program at the Middle School. This is a rewarding volunteer role for someone who wants to lead the launch of a new program, make a lasting impact on middle school students, and help them build healthy habits, cooking skills, and a connection to food.
CHEF IN THE CLASSROOM PROGRAM COORDINATOR-KOSKOKONG TRIALS SCHOOL
(Volunteer Position)
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking a motivated, organized, and passionate volunteer to launch the Chef in the Classroom (CIC) program at Koshkokong Trails Charter School. This new program will introduce students to hands-on cooking experiences with a unique outdoor, fire-based cooking approach. Program Overview: The Koshkokong Trails CIC program will give students the opportunity to prepare and cook meals outdoors over a fire, connecting cooking skills with nature, nutrition, and teamwork. This one-day event will provide a memorable, hands-on culinary experience while teaching healthy eating and practical kitchen skills. Role Overview: The Program Coordinator will serve as the lead organizer, responsible for developing, scheduling, and managing all aspects of the program in partnership with a chef, school staff, and volunteers. This is a unique opportunity to establish a new program and create lasting impact for students. Responsibilities include: Recruiting and hiring a chef to lead the program Collaborating with the chef to create a curriculum tailored to outdoor, fire-based cooking Coordinating schedules with the teacher(s) and school staff Preparing and distributing recipe sheets and related materials Managing ingredient orders, reimbursements, and chef payments in coordination with the Treasurer Coordinating volunteers to assist during the event Reporting program updates and outcomes at monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings Education & Community Connection: Communicate with teachers and school staff to support student participation and the hands-on learning. Growth Goal: Support the expansion of the program by assisting and coordinating with the elementary, middle and high school chef in the classroom program volunteers and farm to school board. Time Commitment: Approximately 1–8 hours per month, with flexibility depending on program needs. Training & Support: Training and guidance will be provided. No prior experience in food education is required—just strong organizational skills, communication abilities, and a passion for supporting local food education. Board Connection: Attend monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings and provide brief updates on the Chef in the Classroom program at the Koshkokong Trails School. This is a rewarding volunteer role for someone who wants to lead the creation of a new, hands-on cooking program, help students gain practical kitchen and outdoor cooking skills, and foster a lifelong connection to healthy food.
CHEF AT THE FOOD PANTRY PROGRAM COORDINATOR
(Volunteer Position)
Cambridge Farm to School is seeking a motivated and organized volunteer to coordinate the Chef at the Pantry program. Launched in February 2025, this program brings hands-on food education to Food Pantry patrons six times a year. Program Overview: During each event, a local chef prepares a quick, healthy recipe using ingredients that are staples at the Food Pantry. Patrons get to watch the demonstration, taste the dish, and take home the recipe and ingredients to try themselves. This program connects the community to healthy, practical cooking in a fun and engaging way. Role Overview: The Program Coordinator works closely with Kerry Merren to organize and execute each Chef at the Pantry event, ensuring smooth logistics and a positive experience for chefs, volunteers, and patrons. Responsibilities include: Creating and managing the event schedule for the year Coordinating and scheduling chefs for each event Preparing and distributing recipe sheets for patrons Coordinating a volunteer to assist and video the event Managing ingredient costs and chef payments, coordinating with the Treasurer Reporting updates and outcomes at monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings Supporting the overall success and growth of the program Education & Community Connection: Communicate with pantry staff to support participation and hands-on learning. Growth Goal: Support the expansion of the program by assisting and coordinating with the elementary, middle, and high school chef in the classroom program volunteers and farm to school board. Time Commitment: Approximately 1–6 hours per month, with flexibility depending on program needs. Training & Support: Training and guidance will be provided. No prior culinary or event experience is required—just strong organizational skills, enthusiasm, and a desire to support community food education. Board Connection: Attend monthly Cambridge Farm to School board meetings and provide brief updates on the Chef at the Food Pantry program. This is a rewarding volunteer role for someone who loves food, organization, and connecting with the community while making a direct impact on Food Pantry patrons’ access to healthy, practical meals.
CHEF IN THE CLASSROOM & CHEF AT THE PANTY SUPPORT
(Volunteer Position- Minimal Time Commitment)
Cambridge Farm to School is looking for friendly, dependable volunteers to help during our Chef in the Classroom events. This role is perfect for someone who wants to show up, help out, and make a difference—without meetings, planning, or ongoing responsibilities. Role Overview Classroom Support Volunteers assist during Chef in the Classroom lessons by helping the chef and students during the event. Volunteers help ensure classes run smoothly and that students have a positive, hands-on experience with healthy food. Responsibilities Assist the chef during classroom cooking activities Help pass out food, supplies, and materials Support students as they taste and participate Take photos during the event (when/if appropriate) Help with light setup and cleanup Additional guidance will be provided when you arrive What This Role Is NOT No planning or organizing required No meetings to attend No curriculum development No long-term commitment required No training required You simply show up, help during the event, and enjoy being part of the experience! Time Commitment Typically 2 hours per event Sign up for as many or as few events as you’d like No cooking or teaching experience is required—just a positive attitude and willingness to help. Guidance on duties is provided on site.