*To be considered in the first-round review, please complete the Expression of Interest form by January 23.
The Policy Advocacy Circle brings together community members and organizational partners to help shape the Hampshire County Food Policy Council’s policy work. Our goal is to build a food system that works for everyone, both locally and across Massachusetts.
From January to June 2026, the Circle will:
Build relationships and partnerships
Reach out to new community voices
Create shared leadership roles
Take part in training on advocacy and storytelling
Together, this work will lead to a Policy Advocacy Plan for the HCFPC.
About 5–8 hours per month
Includes meetings, preparation, and training
Stipends are available for participants who are not already paid to do this work
Preparing for two meetings per month (reviewing materials and emails)
Attending at least two 90-minute meetings per month
Taking part in training related to public storytelling and advocacy
Participating in group discussions and decision-making
Community members, especially those with lived experience related to food insecurity or other food access challenges or barriers.
Organizational partners with experience or interest in policy and advocacy
You do not need prior policy experience.
We value people who are new to advocacy and want to learn, as well as those with experience who can help move the work forward.
Building community across different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives
Working together across organizations and sectors
Using personal stories to help change systems and policies
Speaking up with elected officials and decision-makers to improve our communities
We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment, while also being clear about the focus and responsibilities of policy work. Language access, different learning needs, and a range of experience levels are welcome. Additional opportunities within the HCFPC may be available for those interested in other ways to participate.
*To be considered in the first-round review, please complete the Expression of Interest form by January 23.