Who We Serve

The goal of our vocational program is to teach individuals 13 and up with and without disabilities the skills they need to gain meaningful employment in animal-related industries. Our vocational skills program is so successful because students explore jobs and learn functional skills for employment on a real working farm with live animals rather than in a classroom setting. This program can benefit those diagnosed with Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, PTSD and other disabilities affecting focus, strength, balance, cognition, and social dysfunction.

Focus on Your Success

Our lead occupational therapist, Chelsea Whitaker, OTR/L, developed a proprietary program with outcome-based measures to document and keep track of clients’ progress in the vocational program. Our program is set apart from others because an occupational therapist identifies the specific needs of each student and breaks down their individual objectives into achievable short-term and long-term goals.  The curriculum is structured and is customized based on the individual student’s interests. Levels of training range from pre-vocational life skills to an advanced program with an internship component to meet each student where they are and help them be as independent as possible on their journey to employment.

  • Pre-Vocational & Life Skills Program
  • Vocational Curriculum 1.0 Dog Handling
  • Vocational Curriculum 2.0: Intermediate Dog Handling
  • Vocational Curriculum 3.0: Advanced Dog Handling

We create a positive environment for our students to build the confidence they need to find a job they can be excited about! In addition to our occupational therapist, we have a diverse team of trained volunteers including speech, occupational, and physical therapy students, special educators, and various animals care/training experts that assist groups based on their needs and goals.

Payment

We accept the Autism and Community Waiver, Liss Funding, DORS Funding, and private pay. We are a proud recipient of the Norma and Malcolm Baker Recreational Grant from Autism Speaks

Client Story: A Parent’s Perspective

“Chelsea and her staff are opening new windows of hope and opportunity for many clients of all ages with special needs who are seeking to find meaningful experience and skills that can translate into something a future employer can truly find valuable. I’ve been extremely impressed with how Chelsea takes the time to get to know her clients and their families. Chelsea has a very well thought out program and she’s always open to feedback. She seeks to tailor her program to her clients unique interests and abilities. Chelsea and her staff have such a positivity and genuine kindness that makes Caitlin, and our family, feel so welcome to be there. Caitlin always looks forward to the days she goes to the farm and we feel that being a part of the program has given her a renewed motivation to build employable skills in a field that she loves.”

– Melissa, The Parent of a Vocational Program Student