The Ojai Foundation :: Programs

THE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM is grounded in the core vision and values, principles and practices, by which the Ojai Foundation fulfills its mission in the world. The program offers training and hands-on experience in Council-based learning, community living and organizational management.

Interns entering the program join in the life of the Foundation and participate in all aspects of our small village-like residential community. Each intern is mentored by a senior staff member and participates in a program of study and shared experience.

The focus of the program varies according to the individual's goals and chosen course of study. Current paths of study include:

Retreat Center Management
Land Stewardship
Youth Mentorship
Carrying Council into the World

Regardless of the course of study chosen, each internship also includes opportunities to gain experience in:

Council Training
Permaculture Principles & Sustainability Practices
Council Governance (Staff, Leadership, & Business Councils)
Ceremonial Arts
Community Dynamics
Medicine Wheel teachings and other traditional maps of wholeness

Candidates will be accepted based on an assessment of their personal goals, previous experience, and compatibility with The Ojai Foundation's vision. These will be determined through interviews and a written proposal or letter of intention. Enrollment is limited to one residential intern during any one season due to housing availability.

Certification & College Credit - Upon successful fulfillment of the program, an intern will receive a letter of completion, plus professional recommendations, from the Directors. Where appropriate, TOF will assist interns in gaining academic credit through their college or university.

Tuition for the six-month program is $1800 ($300 per month). In addition, there is a work-exchange agreement for 20 hours of directed tasks and projects per week, most of which would be in interest-related areas (e.g., Land Steward interns would be working primarily in the gardens and on the land; Center Management interns would be attending staff and board meetings and assisting with administrative tasks.

For further information, please contact us.

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