Sow It Forward Internship

Organization: Arizona Sustainability Alliance (AZSA)

Duration: Fall 2025 (August – December)

Hours: 10-15 hours per week 

Compensation: Unpaid unless the intern secures funding through the school/college (Opportunity to receive college credit)

Internship Format: Hybrid in Phoenix, AZ (remote with occasional on-site meetings) 

Organization Physical Address:  3131 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85040

About Arizona Sustainability Alliance:

Arizona Sustainability Alliance (AZSA) is a nonprofit action and advocacy alliance that aims to create and support cutting-edge, project-based sustainability solutions in Arizona through civic engagement, collaboration, and education. We empower people, organizations, and cities to work together towards more equitable and sustainable communities with a focus on the priority areas of conservation, renewable energy, sustainable food systems, and urban forestry.  

Position Overview: 

The Sow it Forward (SIF) program focuses on sustainable farming practices using Tower Gardens—vertical, aeroponic growing systems—and aims to create local, healthy food systems while engaging students in hands-on experiential learning. As part of the program, students and educators learn how to grow fresh produce and promote sustainable agricultural practices to build a stronger, more resilient food economy.

We are seeking an intern to support AZSA’s sustainable food systems and education initiatives within the SIF program. The Sustainable Food Systems Intern will work closely with the AZSA team to support both the agricultural and educational components of the SIF program. This role offers a unique opportunity to assist in the development and delivery of educational curriculum focused on sustainable food systems, farming practices, and community engagement. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Tower Garden Operations Support: Assist with daily operations of multiple Tower Gardens, including planting, harvesting, monitoring plant health, and maintaining garden systems following best practices for vertical and aeroponic farming. 

• Curriculum Development & Educational Programming: Collaborate with the team to update and utilize curriculum focused on food systems, agriculture, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. Support educational activities, events, and workshops, ensuring they align with program goals and provide valuable learning experiences for educators and students. 

• Data Tracking & Reporting: Maintain detailed records on program data, curriculum engagement, and educational outcomes. Assist in compiling reports for internal teams and stakeholders, focusing on both agricultural and educational impacts.

• Community Engagement & Outreach: Engage local schools and community organizations in hands-on learning opportunities related to the SIF program. Support outreach efforts to increase awareness of the program’s educational offerings and community impact.

• Marketing and Communications: Contribute to creating promotional materials for social media, newsletters, and community events to showcase the educational aspects of the SIF program. Assist in updating the program’s website with educational resources, blog posts, and updates on growing progress.

• Team Collaboration: Work closely with the team, community partners, and other interns to improve program operations and educational outreach. Attend regular team meetings and contribute ideas to enhance program success and reach.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Current enrollment in a relevant academic program (e.g., Sustainable Food Systems, Nutrition, Education, Environmental Science, or related fields).
• Strong interest in aeroponic gardening, sustainable food systems, and environmental education.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency with online collaboration tools such as Google Workspace, Zoom, Canva, Trello, and Slack.
• A valid Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card through the Arizona Department of Public Safety is required. Fingerprint fees will be covered by AZSA.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with gardening and growing food 
• Experience in teaching, tutoring, or educational outreach  
• Experience with instructional design or an interest in developing educational content

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to hrvolunteer@azsustain.org. Please include the internship title in your email subject line. In your cover letter, please explain your interest in sustainable food systems and how your skills align with the goals of the SIF program. All offers of internships at Arizona Sustainability Alliance (AZSA) are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check.