Growing Grounds Farm and Nursery is one of three social enterprises operated by Transitions Mental Health Association.  Established over 35 years ago, Growing Grounds is a nonprofit wholesale nursery that provides therapeutic horticulture, socialization opportunities, paid employment, and soft job skills training for adults with severe and persistent mental illness.

A few weeks ago, Vertical Harvest's Jackson Hole farm had the opportunity to host an icon. Dr. Temple Grandin is a decorated academic known for her progressive work in animal science. She’s also a bestselling author, professor and autism activist. Her most recent work champions neurodiversity in the workplace and the importance of bringing different kinds of thinkers together to solve problems, from computer programming, to manufacturing, to farming.

The Care Farming Network hosted a 4-session series in September 2023. Each session focused on a specific topic that aspiring care farmers must consider as they begin their journey. The recorded sessions are available to view online and each session includes a resource page with helpful information.

Side Effects Public Media's health reporter Elizabeth Gabriel aired a story on the Indianapolis public radio station asking "Why aren't there more care farms in the U.S.?" CFN's very own Andrea Barnhart was interviewed and sheds some light on the growing network of care farms across the country! The story was picked up by Louisville Public Media too...fingers crossed that National Public Radio shows interest!

You’re invited to visit and learn about care farming and how OASIS TLC promotes the inclusion and acceptance of adults with autism in their local communities by establishing environmentally exemplary farm centers that provide meaningful work, healthy and peaceful residences, and community interaction.

OASIS tlc has created a local farmstead model program that offers continuing education, vocational skill-building, employment, and housing, in a local farm setting across the life-span for people with autism.  OASIS tlc farms are set up as Agra-Tourism sites that create jobs, produce goods for sale and offer opportunities for community inclusion and interaction. 

Bring a dish to share after the tour and connect with other care farmers in the area!

Red Wiggler Founder and ED, Woody Woodroof, was one of five panelists addressing the need for a wide array of employment options for individuals with I/DD at the 2023 Together For Choice Conference. The conference in Las Vegas brought together advocates, families and service providers across the country to share ideas and best practices to protect and advance the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live, work and thrive in a setting of his or her choice.  

Peacehaven Community Farm's inaugural Arts for All summer season wrapped up with a one-of-a-kind Paperhand Puppet Intervention “Puppet Parade.” Kudos to Peacehaven and their partners for their dedication to advocating the arts for people of all abilities.

October–November (Virtual): What are the ins and outs of farm and garden youth entrepreneurship programs? City Blossoms, United States Botanic Garden, and the Farm-Based Education Network have teamed up to offer a free four-part workshop series. Join a group of guest presenters to explore how to support young people as they launch, manage, and grow their own, youth-driven businesses. This series is for you whether you’re just getting started or are looking to refine or expand an existing program. Based on Cultivating Young Leaders: A Workbook for Growing a Youth-Led Cooperative Garden Business. All webinars start at 3:30 PM ET on:

• Oct. 26
• Nov. 2
• Nov. 14
• Nov. 28