ACTIVE STEPS and GROWING MINDS WORKING IN COLLABORATION
COMING FALL 2026!!
Active Steps has collaborated with Growing Minds Farm Education to offer Social Enrichment Programs on the farm!
Active Steps has collaborated with Growing Minds Farm Education to offer Social Enrichment Programs on the farm!
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Active Steps' farm program fosters meaningful social connections by providing structured opportunities
for participants to engage with peers, staff, and the broader community. Through shared experiences such as farm tours, animal interactions, gardening, and harvesting, participants naturally build teamwork and peer interactions. Hands-on tasks like planting, feeding animals, and nature walks encourage collaboration, shared responsibilities, and communication skills. The program also broadens social circles by introducing participants to farm staff, volunteers, and visitors, helping them build confidence in new social settings. Embedded within these activities are opportunities to practice essential social skills, such as turn-taking, reciprocal conversations, and offering or requesting help, which reinforce positive behaviors. Families and caregivers are encouraged to participate in select activities, extending social connections beyond the program. With the support of staff who model, prompt, and reinforce positive interactions, participants are guided in building meaningful relationships in a structured and supportive environment. |
Contact US FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING PROGRAM SCHEDULE
Fostering Community INclusion and Values RolesThe program empowers individuals with disabilities to become valued members of their community by providing hands-on learning experiences, practical life skills, and opportunities for social inclusion. Through farming-related activities, participants gain knowledge and skills that foster independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging. The program equips participants with practical skills that can lead to employment or volunteer opportunities in agriculture, animal care, and business management, preparing them for roles in farming, community gardens, farmers’ markets, or local businesses.
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ImProving Recreational and Social SkillsThe programs at Active Steps enhance recreational and social skills through structured, hands-on experiences in an engaging environment, in both a clinic and farm setting. Participants develop skills through guided group activities like farm tours, gardening, and animal interactions, which promote teamwork,
cooperative play, and shared enjoyment. Activities such as feeding animals, harvesting crops, and creating farm crafts provide natural opportunities to practice turn-taking, waiting, and sharing with peers. |
Supporting Underserved CommunitiesThis program increases access to meaningful recreational, social, and educational experiences for
individuals in underserved communities by addressing common barriers and promoting inclusion. It offers affordable, subsidized opportunities and culturally responsive programming tailored to diverse backgrounds. Transportation assistance, in collaboration with community organizations, helps families facing mobility challenges. Partnerships with schools, community centers, and social service agencies connect participants to additional resources. |