Host Farm Info
Host Name:Debbie Piesen
Farm description:Living Energy Farm is 127 acre off grid intentional community, organic farm, and appropriate technology development center in Louisa, Virginia. We are completely off the grid and aim to use no fossil fuels. We grow most of our food, and operate an organic farm in seed production for income. Our mission is to demonstrate, and promote, technologies and lifestyles that are truly sustainable and accessible to everyone worldwide.
Internship description:Farm volunteers exchange 30-35 hours per week of farm and domestic labor for room, board and educational opportunities.
Languages spoken on farm:English
As part of a shared effort to provide a safe and inclusive experience for all interns and host farms, including BIPOC AND LGBQTIA+ participants, please describe how you will foster a sense of community, safety, and acceptance on your farm:We foster a sense of community through our shared community meals, group community meetings, and our working together day to day . We strive to create an environment that gives people an opportunity to convey their concerns and figure out together how to build trust and respond adequately to the needs of each individual.
Would you be able to provide financial compensation for an intern? If so, what form would this be in?Typically no, but we may be able to negotiate a stipend for a full season commitment.
Would you be able to provide housing and amenities for an intern? If so, what form would this be in?Private room and use of shared spaces (living room, bathrooms, kitchen). All meals provided.
What are your general expectations for an intern?Interns would be living and working with us in an off grid farm community. In the growing season we generally do a half day of field work 4-5 days per week. Interns are expected to also help out with domestic chores and food processing. Additionally, we do technology development projects on our farm, and interns may get involved with these projects if they are interested.
Are you able to provide educational on-farm training for an intern?Yes, we can offer educational opportunities on topics including: vegetable, grain and contract seed production, food processing, and managing off-grid energy systems including our DC Microgrid and biogas systems.
Preferred start date(s):May 2026
Preferred length of internship:6 months, with the possibility of longer term membership
