Cultural Agriculture Outreach Specialist

PROPOSALS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO CARLYLE STEWART AT CARLYLE.STEWART@RMFU.ORG

Please read instructions in RFP. The Rocky Mountain Farmers Union is hiring an AgWell contractor on the Navajo Nation. AgWell is an initiative within the RMFU that strives to increase farmer and rancher wellness by offering programs on the topics of behavioral health and occupational stress reduction. This contractor will work closely with our Northern Navajo Farmers Union Chapter to address the needs of tribal members; and to lead culturally relevant events about Navajo food and farm ways. Agricultural knowledge and experience is a plus. If you don’t meet all of the qualifications, we still encourage you to apply. Most importantly, we are looking for someone who is motivated to strengthen community, deepen connections between elders and youth, and is passionate about farming and ranching on the Navajo Nation.

Request for Proposal (RFP) for Navajo Nation Contractor Services.

Rocky Mountain Farmers Union (RMFU) is a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for family farmers, ranchers, agricultural workers, and rural communities in Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming. Founded in 1907, RMFU has a long history of promoting sustainable agriculture, advocating for fair farm policies, and fostering strong rural communities.

Independent Contractor Position

RMFU is seeking to hire an Independent Contractor to support the work of RMFU’s AgWell program on the Navajo Nation. AgWell is a strategic initiative of RMFU that strives to increase farmer and rancher access to behavioral health services, host workshops on occupational stress reduction, and create support systems and opportunities for social connection throughout agricultural communities.

Location

The contractor is expected to live within or in close proximity to the Navajo Nation to facilitate engagement and lead programs.

Purpose of Position

RMFU is looking for a dynamic individual to represent AgWell as an independent contractor for the Navajo Nation. The independent contractor will serve RMFU members of the Navajo Nation, as well as other agricultural producers in the community. The candidate will be responsible for the following: cultivating deeper connections between tribal members of various generations by leading programs that facilitate knowledge and skill transfer between elders and youth; collaborating with other organizations or individuals who can jointly lead workshops on the topics of food sovereignty, justice, and ancestral food ways; and creating programs that teach farming and ranching practices that are specific to Navajo ways and customs. The contractor will emphasize how reconnecting with these practices can improve resiliency, reduce stress, and strengthen sociocultural connection among tribal members. This contractor will provide leadership and guidance that is aligned the RMFU’s and AgWell’s mission and vision. Their work will prioritize the health, wellness, and cultural solidarity of Navajo Nation members, farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· The independent contractor is expected to lead culturally relevant programs dealing with ancestral food ways; and farming and ranching practices on the Navajo Nation.

· Cultivate deeper connections between tribal members of various generations by leading programs that facilitate knowledge and skill transfer between elders and youth.

· Be able to articulate clearly the connections between embracing cultural practices and wellness and resiliency.

· Develop and maintain a network of members and participants who are committed to addressing agricultural and rural challenges on the Navajo Nation.

· Collaborate with any relevant organizations or individuals that can contribute to the mission and goals of this position.

· Work closely with Northern Navajo RMFU Chapter members to develop strategies to address the essential needs of the community.

· Serve as a representative for AgWell that can support nation members around the topics of wellness, agricultural stress, and behavioral health.

· Communicate effectively with RMFU Staff and AgWell Director on progress, impact, and scope of programs.

· Familiarity with the Navajo Tribal legislative process.

· Promote the philosophy, policy, benefits and membership growth of RMFU.

· Conduct business affairs in a highly responsible and reputable manner designed to further the interests of RMFU and its members.

· Be an active participant on the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union team.

Required Qualifications

· Cultural competency and familiarity with Navajo ways, customs, and traditions

· Possess an understanding of agricultural and rural issues on the Navajo Nation.

· Experience community organizing.

· Excellent oral and written communicator in interpersonal, group, and public settings; experience public speaking and leading educational workshops.

· Ability to work independently,

· Ability to organize and prioritize tasks to carry out AgWell activities.

· Excellent problem-solving, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills using a collaborative approach.

· Good administrative aptitude, including computer skills with Microsoft Office products.

· Strong listening, facilitating, and relationship-building skills.

· Creative thinker with the ability to generate innovative ideas, to elicit participation, and build trust.

· Valid Driver’s License and willingness to travel throughout New Mexico and the Navajo Nation

Desired Qualifications

· Familiarity with the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union and its mission.

· Experience working on a farm or ranch.

· Have work experience or education in the field of behavioral or mental/behavioral health.

Submission of Proposals

Please submit your proposal electronically to Carlyle Stewart, AgWell Director at carlyle.stewart@rmfu.org. This is a rolling Request for Proposals and we will continue accepting applications until a contractor is selected.

If you have any questions, please contact Carlyle Stewart, AgWell Director, at carlyle.stewart@rmfu.org

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $25.00 - $50.00 per hour

Expected hours: 5 – 10 per week

Schedule:

• Evenings as needed
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $50