College Ambassador / Metro Action Commission Summer Food Summer Program / Food Worker

Metropolitan Action Commission is a government agency based in Nashville, Tennessee, dedicated to partnering with families living in poverty to improve their economic security, educational success, and overall health and well-being. The agency implements a Whole Family/2Gen Approach which addresses the needs of both children and the adults in their lives by building a comprehensive system of care around the entire family. This innovative model is designed to break the cycle of poverty through targeted programs and services that promote family stability and empowerment from one generation to the next. The Metropolitan Action Commission operates various community programs in Davidson County, working closely with local families to create sustainable pathways out of poverty. They maintain offices and facilities throughout Nashville, including the Berry Head Start Center located at 2233 Winford Avenue, which serves as a site for youth-focused initiatives and food services programs. The Commission also partners with other local and regional agencies to maximize impact and resources available to families in need.

The Youth College Ambassador-Food Worker position is an in-person internship opportunity within the Metropolitan Action Commission, specifically housed at the Berry Head Start Center. This role is a vital part of the Summer Food Services Program, providing essential food services to children and youth in the community. Interns serve dual roles as both food service workers and youth mentors, playing a key leadership role in the preparation and distribution of nutritious meals. Participants in this internship will engage in hands-on food preparation and sanitation tasks while promoting a positive, respectful environment. Ambassadors will support teamwork, leadership development, and effective communication among youth workers, helping cultivate essential workplace skills.

This uniquely designed internship pays $18.00 per hour and is open to current college students aged 19 to 22. The program runs from May 26th to July 17th, with initial orientation and training sessions. Interns are expected to work Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., including a 40-minute unpaid lunch break. The work environment includes kitchen, production, and dock areas, with some physical requirements such as lifting food supplies weighing between 25 to 50 pounds. Comfortable casual attire is appropriate for this role, and while transportation is not provided by the program, the worksite is accessible to public transit with the nearest bus stop located roughly 1.5 miles away.

Interns will gain valuable work experience, leadership skills, and community engagement opportunities through this position. The role emphasizes mentorship, with responsibilities including task assignment, monitoring food safety and quality, conducting daily meetings with youth workers, and fostering enrichment activities to enhance youth development. The College Ambassador program is intended to provide diverse experiential learning across various worksites in Davidson County, enhancing participants’ resumes and professional networks. It also offers exposure to real-world workplace situations relevant to future career paths, especially for students aiming to develop skills in public service, community development, and food service management. This internship is not only a stepping stone towards professional growth but also an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in combating food insecurity and supporting youth empowerment within the Nashville community.