The Alaska Division of Agriculture is sponsoring an AmeriCORPS VISTA to further develop the structure and sustainability of the Alaska Farmers' Market – Quest Card Program (AFMQP) to increase access to healthy local foods for more low income Alaskans. In Alaska, the USDA Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is delivered through an electronic benefits transfer card (EBT) called "Quest". This is a one-year position with the potential to increase to 2-3 years.
The VISTA will
•Continue to build, manage and improve the Alaska Farmers' Market-Quest Card Program.
•Initiate, implement and manage all grants to farmers' markets for the program.
•Conduct outreach to farmers' markets to expand participation.
•Provide training and materials for all farmers' markets participating in the program.
•Manage daily communications with markets and Quest clients.
•Increase marketing initiatives through various traditional and social media sources to raise awareness of the program and increase reach to low income Alaskans.
•Provide regular, weekly updates on program activities to supervisor.
•Identify funding sources to continue the Alaska Farmers' Market –Quest Card Program and implement a matching program.
•Track activities and program data for end of market season evaluation report.
Other Qualifications:
This VISTA must be passionate about improving the local food system for the benefit of all Alaskans. This person should have experience in working with farmers and/or farmers markets. Experience with low income populations would be beneficial. This person must be capable and experienced at working independently with exceptional organizational skills. The VISTA must be able to work respectfully among individuals with diverse cultural, political, and socio-economic backgrounds. This person must possess excellent relationship building skills. This person should be comfortable making public presentations and possess good oral and written communication skills.
Last Day to Apply: November 26, 2012
