Annual Report FY2009
(October 1 - September 30)
• Our programs impacted 264 people with developmental disabilities in 2009, a 28% increase from 2008.
• Our Grower Program’s annual proficiency assessments considered 31 skills of planting, harvesting, field maintenance, post harvest, interaction/inclusion on-farm & off-farm and vocational social skills.
29% of growers improved their skill sets from last year.
86% of growers rated proficient on skills when they have a staff member or
volunteer on hand to prompt or assist the grower in the field.
• 14 Grower paid farm jobs received an 11% increase in wages in FY09
• 73 students with disabilities participated in on-farm Service-Learning activities grounded in the outdoor classroom. We have developed long-term relationships with special education classes who return to the farm each year.
• 25 adults with disabilities participated in our Grower In Training Program and received unpaid on-the-job vocational and life skills training.
• 171 low income adults with developmental disabilities received over 4000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables through our Farm to Group Home Program which significantly contributed to their health and well being.
• Partnerships for the Farm to Group Home Program were strengthened with the following agencies: The Arc, Community Support Services and The Jewish Foundation for Group Homes.
• 1,343 pounds of produce was also delivered to the MANNA Food Center on 25 separate occasions. (The growers really like to help others too!)
