The Farmer’s House Expands to its Seventh Location in North Kansas City
NORTH KANSAS CITY, MO – The Farmer’s House has extended its boundaries within North Kansas City by launching its seventh location. The Farmer’s House, a not-for-profit organization, operates several programs targeted towards people with developmental disabilities. The organization announced the completion of their expansion into the Northland at the Margaret Nerman Art Studio. The studio will now serve as one of the seven prime locations where The Farmer’s House conducts its programs.
Expanding Opportunities for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
The Farmer’s House currently offers an array of programs ranging from early work experiences to community integration programs. Over the course of a year, the organization caters to approximately 300 “farmers” – a term affectionately given to program participants. Area schools are also involved in the partnership, creating broader access and inclusion opportunities for students with developmental disabilities.
Growing Deeper Roots in Kansas City
Dana Chatlin, Director of Development at The Farmer’s House, remarked the necessity of deepening their roots within Kansas City. She believes the expansion to a seventh location will enhance the organization’s ability to deliver its services to a wider community. “Our main goal is to help them lead self-determined lives. They can do this by learning skills and experiencing things, which would eventually help them understand what they like and dislike, and what they want to pursue. Ultimately, we aim to help them find a job in the community,” Chatlin explained.
Changing Lives One Farmer at a Time
One of the newer farmers at The Farmer’s House, Colleen, who also works part-time at a local coffee shop and serves as a volunteer at an animal shelter, expressed how the programs have equipped her with vital life skills. “I’ve been learning money, how to count money,” she said, expressing the importance of this skill in preparing for a job.
In addition to teaching these practical skills, The Farmer’s House also places strong emphasis on enhancing social and life skills which aid individuals in obtaining employment. Another long-term “farmer”, Lita, shared about her experience saying, “In here is all people who love me.”
Fostering Partnership with Schools in Jackson County
The Farmer’s House isn’t stopping at seven. They’ve recently garnered a grant that enables them to expand into Jackson County by fostering partnerships with schools in the area. Any interested schools can reach out to The Farmer’s House to kick start a program sponsorship. This is indeed a giant step forward in securing a safe place for individuals with developmental disabilities. As Colleen recently shared, “I feel safe here and I know this is always going to be my safe place.”
Moving Ahead with Community Support
Products made at the program sites, including art made at the studio, are sold at various markets around the city supporting the cause. These creative works largely contribute towards the financial sustainability of the organization and also foster a spirit of confidence among the “farmers” who see their work valued and appreciated by the community.
With its expanding presence in the region, The Farmer’s House is certain to make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, growing friendships, fostering skills and building self-esteem, one “farmer” at a time.
