Common Roots, Inc. AmeriCorps VISTA – Food Equity Systems & Partnerships South Burlington, VT · Full time Company website

Apply for AmeriCorps VISTA – Food Equity Systems & Partnerships

Common Roots is a nonprofit organization based in South Burlington, Vermont, working at the intersection of farming, nutrition education, and community food access. Our mission is to build a thriving local food system and healthy community through farming and nutrition education for all ages, where every person has equitable access to nourishing food they enjoy. We operate a diversified organic farm and a range of community-based programs that connect people to fresh food, hands-on learning, and each other. Our work includes Farm to School education, community meals, youth programming, and partnerships with local organizations to expand access to healthy food. As an organization, we are focused on building systems that create long-term impact—strengthening how food is grown, distributed, and accessed across our community.

About the Role

The Food Equity Systems & Partnerships VISTA will strengthen the systems that connect farm production to community food access. This role focuses on improving coordination, building partnerships, and developing tools that expand access to nutritious food for households experiencing food insecurity.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and evaluate food access models and programs in neighboring communities
• Map how food moves from farm production through programs into community distribution
• Develop evaluation tools to measure the impact of food access initiatives
• Build partnership systems with schools, food shelves, and community organizations
• Support program systems such as Nourishing Wednesday and Farm to Go

Example Projects

• Create a food system map identifying gaps and opportunities
• Develop a partnership coordination framework
• Organize community forums to discuss and plan the future of South Burlington’s food system

Required Skills & Experience

• Strong organizational and analytical skills
• Ability to research, synthesize, and present information
• Interest in community systems, food access, or public service
• Ability to manage projects independently

Preferred / Desired Skills

• Experience with program evaluation or research
• Interest in food systems, public health, or education
• Experience working with community partners or groups

What You’ll Gain

• Experience designing systems that improve real-world food access
• Exposure to partnerships across schools, nonprofits, and community organizations
• Skills in evaluation, systems thinking, and program design

About Common Roots

Common Roots is building a thriving local food system and healthy community through farming and nutrition education for all ages, where every person has equitable access to nourishing food they enjoy.

Compensation & Benefits

This is an AmeriCorps VISTA position. Members receive a living allowance (~$1,800–$2,000/month), a Segal Education Award (~$7,395) or end-of-service stipend, health coverage, and professional development opportunities.