APPLY
Applications for the 2026 season are open until March 15th at 11:59 PM PST!
Or, fill out this form and email, along with two letters of recommendation, to applications@annesaxelbylegacyfund.org
The ASLF Apprenticeship
seeks to cultivate and inspire the next generation of food and agriculture leaders by sponsoring one month apprenticeships on farms similar to those that Anne engaged in during her early 20’s. Participants will work full-time with a farm/production team for a 30-day immersive experience.
• Candidates will be paired with a participating farm or food business for a one month working apprenticeship as an employee of the farm or food business.
• Apprentices will participate in farming and production activities and will follow a tailored program that gives a general and overarching experience of the operation.
• Apprentices will be compensated $20 per hour for four 40-hour work weeks. Lodging, a stipend, and travel expenses will be provided.
Our apprenticeship program focuses on adults over the age of 17. We encourage applications from anyone, including those who are in life or career transitions that have led them to a desire to work in food and agriculture – all will be considered so please apply! Most apprenticeships take place in July and August.
The work environment will depend on the unique host farm and the season, but participants should expect a variety of conditions and experiences on a working farm. One should be prepared to work outdoors on a variety of farm types and in variable weather conditions. Chores conducted in facilities may include a production facility such as a cheese making room, livestock barn, packing-house, cheese cave, or a pop-up retail stand at the farmers’ market.
Applicants should possess:
• Enthusiasm for the ASLF mission.
• A strong work ethic.
• The ability to work outdoors in all types of weather and perform physical activities as needed.
• A basic competency with word processing and spreadsheets.
• The ability to work alone on a task or take direction from peers and supervisors.
• The ability to attend safety and orientation training as required.
• Strong communication skills throughout the apprenticeship with ASLF staff including sharing photos and videos.
Timeline
1. All complete applications are due by Sunday, March 15th
2. Promising candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview with the ASLF Selection Committee.
to be scheduled between March 26th–April 8th.
3. Promising candidates will be paired with host farms for second-round interviews.
4. Acceptance into the program will be announced on or before May 1st.
5. The host farm, ASLF, and the candidate will formalize details in an apprenticeship agreement.
6. Most apprenticeships will take place in July and August 2026.
7. At the conclusion of the apprenticeship, each ASLF Apprentice will be required to share their experience through a storytelling project.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I make my application stand out?
Speak from the heart about your passion for joining our program and why you feel it would be a good fit. We require applications by the March 15th deadline—so be sure to have the letters of recommendation ready and sent in time for that deadline.
Do I get to pick my farm?
Applicants will be paired with a farm that reflects their interests as outlined in the application.
What month does the program take place?
Our apprenticeships typically occur between June-August, with a few placements in May and September. Please note the specific dates that work best for you on your application. Apprenticeships can start mid month depending on the availability of the farm.
What if I’m only available outside of the June-August window?
Please let us know on your application which months you are available. We may not be able to accommodate your schedule, but we will try!
Do I need to have farming experience to apply?
You can come with any level of experience and farming background.
What does ASLF look for in a host farm?
Community, sustainability and education. Our farm partnerships are incredibly diverse, and we are always looking to expand our family of partners. We look for farms that promote and cultivate sustainable farm practices, as well as a strong sense of community. Our farm partners are asked to welcome and integrate our apprentices into their community for the time that they are working at the farm. This includes education and training as well as creating a safe environment.
How are you funded?
Our funding comes from a combination of generous individual donors, foundations and corporations. If you know of an organization who is excited about funding programs like ours, please send them our way!
If you have further questions about our program, please email us at applications@annesaxelbylegacyfund.org or call us at 917.336.2507.
“In 2006, when Ms. Saxelby opened Saxelby Cheesemongers, the American cheese industry was largely just that: industrial and mass market. Her shop was a daring enterprise that carried only American-made cheeses from small producers.”
- The New York Times
“When Anne arrived fresh out of college to make cheese with us, we recognized right away that she possessed tremendous kindness and warmth, and she lived her life with an infectious joy. Anne brought a passion for cheese, a curious mind, and boundless energy—she dove right in to learn as much as she could about small-scale farming and cheese making. How did she know at such a young age that this was what she wanted to do? In a few short years, Anne grew into a leading advocate for American farmstead and artisanal cheeses, introducing them to leading chefs and discerning customers. Her personal strengths carried her through a remarkable and far-too-short career that touched and inspired so many of us who knew her. There’s a hole in the world today.”
— Mark Gillman and Elizabeth MacAlister from Cato Corner Farm