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.