History
Slow Food-UW (SFUW) is a campus chapter of the international Slow Food movement, whose mission is to support access to “good, clean, fair food.” In response to the growing geographical, socioeconomic, and cultural barriers between low-income residents and healthy food, SFUW students initiated efforts in the fall of 2009 to bridge this divide. The food justice work led by SFUW members has led to lasting partnerships between SFUW and the South Madison Farmers’ Market, the Badger Rock Charter Middle School, and Lincoln Elementary School. These partnerships aim to create dialogue and bridge cultural differences between local diverse communities using food as a universal experience.
Badger Rock Garden Class Internship
Position Description
Badger Rock Middle School is a charter school located in South Madison. The Badger Rock garden class is one of many progressive, environmentally based programs that promote hands-on learning in the garden and kitchen. The garden class is run by Sarah Karlson, among many other wonderful staff, who engage students through activities in their greenhouse, garden, and even beekeeping! They grow a variety of herbs, fruits, and vegetables. In the kitchen, students prepare a variety of dishes, varying from homemade pasta to sushi. Slow Food interns have the opportunity to assist the teaching staff with the garden class by demonstrating proper cooking methods, teaching students how to run and benefit from a garden, and making connections with students.
Average Time Commitment
- 2 hours per week in addition to weekly classes on Mondays from 12:05 to 12:55pm. Please see the attached document for the offered volunteer shifts.
Responsibilities and Expectations
- Arrive at Badger Rock in a timely manner.
- Ability to lean into controlled chaos and engage kids fearlessly.
- Attentive communications with project lead and interns.
Quotes
“It is really refreshing to get outside of campus and immerse yourself with the garden, the kids, the kitchen and everything that happens in-between. I have learned a lot about what it takes to rebuild a resilient and healthy community.” ~Reuben, Badger Rock intern Fall 2022
“I chose to become a Badger Rock intern because I wanted to expand my idea of community and food sovereignty beyond what I was being taught in classrooms. Being able to engage and learn from both the staff and students at Badger Rock has truly changed how I see myself as part of the larger Madison community.”~Shea “I love how connected Badger Rock is to their community.”~Soni, Badger Rock intern Fall 2022
Slow Food UW 