Amid the daily rainstorms, ECHO’s newest intern cohort has begun their experiential learning at ECHO’s Global farm in Florida. The group of eight young women have graduated from colleges and universities with aspirations of farm development, community outreach, and international missions to serve God’s kingdom. The learning they experience on the farm allows the interns to gain a broader understanding of what it takes to care for productive vegetable plots, fruit trees, animals, the soil that supports all life, and God’s creation. The interns are also learning daily about working in harmony with one another.

During the first two months, the interns participated in orientation sessions equipping them with the necessary skills for their time at ECHO. They are actively expanding their knowledge of livestock, the gardening systems demonstrated at ECHO, and more. ECHO staff mentor each intern in their areas of responsibility on the ECHO Global Farm. They have already learned new concepts and are excited for the growth to come!

"I did not expect such a large, well-organized ,and beautifully maintained place that so clearly exemplifies some of the joy that can be found in caring for and interacting with God’s creation in intentional ways,” Christina Magers said.

"I’m pleased we get to be so involved with the livestock, and look forward to working in the shop as much as I can, gaining some practical wood, metal, and mechanical skills,” Shealyn Otto said.

The interns will be learning at ECHO for the next 12 months experimenting with and improving their gardening skills. Through Graduatelevel courses provided by Dallas International University and the hands-on activities of planting, weeding, and harvesting, the interns gain hardearned experience in Tropical Agriculture Development. Their backgrounds, diligent work ethic and serving spirit engages the ECHO community, and adds value to the organization.

“I love that the ECHO community has been so welcoming,” shares Sammie Brittain.

 After interning for a year, these sedulous young people will leave ECHO with more expertise in their future field of work. Many will work in projects globally continuing to impact small-scale farming families. Some may join ECHO’s team and further the mission of helping families feed themselves. All will take the skills they’ve learned and spread the love of God as they follow career paths that align with their purpose in Christ. The interns are determined to use their ingenuity to achieve their goals.

“I’m excited to gain a deeper understanding of how different plant and animal systems work together, and how those relationships can be leveraged to strengthen ecosystems and increase food production,” Kendra Goertzen said.

Through your volunteering, support, and partnership, ECHO’s internship program is able to thrive. As the interns actively learn and experience new opportunities for advancement on the farm, we are excited to continue sharing about their journeys and discoveries.

Experimenting with agronomic crops, fertilizer calculations, animal care, and more, the group have immersed themselves in their training. Their relationships are strengthened through cohabitation and exposure to the greater community. The cohort’s involvement on the farm supports the mission of ECHO, exposing them to global needs and encouraging them to uncover solutions. As they serve the Lord and are guided by his provisions, the interns will carry their new found knowledge into their purpose-filled futures.