Taking Root Farms

OUR VISION

Our vision is to foster choice and purpose within the community, connecting those with intellectual developmental disabilities to partners in the community. When asked who we serve, we can say, "each other."

A GROWING NEED

Nationally, over 15% of special needs individuals spend their day at home with no purposeful activity. Census statistics show that 80% of people with disabilities are currently unemployed, as opposed to only 35% of the non-disabled.

Despite the best efforts of local, regional, and state governmental and nonprofit services, it is estimated that more than 800 I/DD adults in our community are underserved. And with the total number of adults with I/DD predicted to nearly double by 2030, the pressure and strain these individuals and their families experience will only increase over the next decade.

That’s what makes the vision for Taking Root Farms so essential to the future of families throughout our local area. 

The challenges are real. But, when we come together to care for, support, and give opportunity to these incredible men and women, our entire community benefits. 

A CLEAR VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Taking Root Farms will initially be able to accommodate an estimated 20 to 25 adults (the TRF “farmers”) with I/DD on any given day. There will be no maximum age limit: high school graduates aged 18 and older will be welcome.  

Taking Root Farms will offer year-round full-day programming five days a week. Guided by the on-site farming staff and determined by individual choice, potential activities include growing, planting, and harvesting; small animal husbandry; and other educational, recreational, and leisure activities. 

TRF’s hallmark will be its farm-focused life skills design for day habilitation that offers opportunities for adults with I/DD to become an active, integral part of the community. Our commitment is to make Richland County an exemplary model of service by offering a rural alternative to current programs and activities.

But to continue bringing this dream to fruition, we need your help. The future of these historically underserved members of our community depends on you. Help our sons and daughters experience the sense of belonging and self-worth that should be available to all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

Join us. The time is now.

“Our children are amazing people with amazing interests and we decided we need an amazing place 

for them to spend their day. That place is Taking Root Farms. ”

~ Angela Eisaman President/Founder TRF