Hawaii Organic Farmers Association - Apprenticeship Program

Do you have a desire to share your time and skills on an organic farm in Hawaii in exchange for knowledge about tropical agriculture?

Join HOFA’s Apprenticeship Program, become a HOFA member, and connect yourself with organic farms looking for help throughout the year.

HOFA's Farm Apprentice Program

HOFA’s Apprenticeship Program was established in response to numerous inquiries about work trade opportunities on organic farms in Hawaii. The program is designed with both the apprentice and the farmer in mind. Our goal is to connect you with organic farms/homesteads that can provide something in exchange for your labor (room and board, a stipend, or both).

The Apprenticeship Program is for people of all ages from all over the world to come together and learn the basics of sustainable organic tropical agriculture.

HOFA’s Apprenticeship Program is affiliated with WWOOF; an international work trade organization (http://wwoofusa.com/). HOFA is also linked to another WWOOF related organization http://www.organicvolunteers.com/. HOFA is open to working with other internship and educational programs that focus on sustainable living practices.

Apprenticeship Details

When: If you are interested in working on or harvesting a particular crop ask the farmer what time of year that activity takes place. Some crops, like pineapples for example, are generally harvested in July and August, while bananas and papayas can be harvested year round. Most farms in Hawaii grow multiple crops, so find out what is being done and when, and see if it fits your expectations of your learning experience. You can also arrange to work on more than one farm, or on different islands so as to work with different crops, climates and techniques or organic farming.

Where: HOFA has host farms located throughout the Hawaiian Island chain. The Islands are especially unique in that they contain 11 of the 13 microclimates found throughout the world. If you have a preference for dry, wet, coastal, or up-mountain climates please take some time to research the location of the farm you are interested in visiting. Be aware that some of the host farms are remotely located and transportation can be limited. Ensure you have access to adequate supplies.

How: How long you wish to stay and what will be exchanged for labor is up to you and the farmer to negotiate. Be very clear in your expectations, as well as find out exactly what the farmer's expectations are for you. Get it in writing, if possible. Some farms may offer room and board, a stipend, or both. Be sure to establish the length of your apprenticeship and the work trade agreement prior to arriving. In some cases the farmer may even be willing to pick you up at the airport.

What to Bring: This depends on where you will be staying. In general, we recommend good working shoes or boots, a raincoat, gloves, appropriate work clothing, a sleeping bag, and a tent if necessary. Don’t forget your swim suit and a towel!!

How to Participate:

1. Complete the HOFA Questionnaire for Farm Apprentices

     provided below and mail to HOFA with a $20 check or

     money order. You fee includes membership in HOFA.

2. You will then receive the Apprenticeship packet which includes:

The host farm list containing all contact information and a short description of what they offer.

Suggestions on developing a contractual agreement with the host farm. You need to negotiate with the farm before beginning your internship. This will protect you and the farmer from any liabilities.

An evaluation form for you to send HOFA after your apprenticeship experience. This will help us to improve the quality of the program.

3. Contact the farms which most interest you and establish a work

     trade agreement that specifies duration, hours/week, and

     compensation.

4. When an agreement is reached, send HOFA the confirmation

     card so we can track which farms are participating.

5. When you finish your apprenticeship, please send us a

completed Apprentice Feedback form so we can continue to

improve our apprenticeship program.

Note: filling out the application does not guarantee you a position. HOFA disclaims any liability whatsoever for any conditions or events which take place during your stay.

HOFA QUESTIONNAIRE FOR FARM APPRENTICES

Please note that this form is used to get information into a manageable database. Please attach a resume if you wish to provide additional information. Send this form and your $20 fee to Hawaii Organic Farmers Association (HOFA) P.O. Box 6863, Hilo, HI 96720. You will receive a Farm Apprentice Packet with a list of host farms, confirmation card, Apprentice Feedback form, and a membership confirmation.

Name .....................................................................................................................

Mailing Address ......................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................................

Phone / Fax / E-Mail ...............................................................................................

Length of Time Available...........................................................................................

Preferred time of year for Apprenticeship..................................................................

Additional family members that will need to be with you during your apprenticeship.

..............................................................................................................................

Describe in 80 to 100 words what your expectations are for your apprenticeship.

Please describe what experience and qualifications you bring to this apprenticeship in 80 to 100 words.

Additional Comments:

Apprenticeship Liability waiver:

Both volunteering and hosting on organic farms can be extremely dangerous and can lead to injury or death. By using this service I assume the risks inherent in farming, traveling and coming in contact with people unknown to me. By signing, I agree that Hawaii Organic Farmers Association (HOFA), its agents, fiscal sponsors, and founders assume no responsibility for any damage that may occur to my property or myself as a result of my apprenticeship experience.

Signed _________________________________________date ______________

Witnessed______________________________________ date _______________

Hawaii Organic Farmers Association (HOFA)
P.O. Box 6863, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 969-7789 Fax: (808) 969-7759
Email: hofa@hawaiiorganicfarmers.org
Copyright 2002