• Their goal in providing planned programs and activities on the Farm, is that each participant will experience growth in the following ways:
  • Improve motor skills, balance, posture, and muscle strength.
  • Increase confidence, self-esteem and a sense of independence by acquiring new skills.
  • Enhance social relationships through the interaction with peers, staff and volunteers in a supportive environment.
  • Educate about nature and animals, emphasizing hands on experiences.
  • Expand recreational opportunities in a safe, fully accessible environment designed specifically for the disabled.

Programs

Horticulture Therapy (an upcoming program)
Plants and garden activities are mentally and physically rewarding. It allows care recipients to become caregivers, thus improving the participants self esteem. All garden areas on the farm will be barrier free, specially landscaped to accommodate those confined to a wheelchair. Raised bed gardens will ensure a comfortable working height and specialized tools and equipment will be provided so that everyone can participate. The participant will engage in a range of physical activities including planting from seed, transplanting, watering, weeding and harvesting.

Animal Interaction Therapy
Organizations such as the Devereux Foundation and Green Chimneys Childrens' Services have documented positive results in treating children with learning disabilities, emotional disorders, and behavioral problems with animal-assisted therapy. Interaction with animals reduces blood pressure, improves circulation, and encourages responsiveness in communicating with others. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with a wide range of animals including horses, cows, pigs, goats, chickens, and rabbits. Staff will provide instruction in activities such as feeding, grooming and bathing which will serve to stimulate numerous muscle groups.