Georgia

Staff had extensive involvement in the Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition in Moultrie, GA, on Oct. 20-22, 2015. Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition is "North America's Premier Farm Show" with an estimated attendance of two hundred thousand. A staff member served as master of ceremonies for the two large events recognizing outstanding farmers from 10 southern states. A press conference was held where AgrAbility was only one of three exhibitors (out of 1229) that was given time in front of the major ag press to talk about their exhibits. Life Essentials was our guest and hundreds of visitors had a chance to learn about AgrAbility, our mission and assistive technologies. Several staff met with major tractor companies to address issues related to farmers with disabilities. AgrAbility was donated a 30' by 30' greenhouse that was used at the Expo.

Staff has been assisting several clients by linking them with the state VR agency by providing documentation and other information consistent with VR policy and procedures. This has greatly helped with communications and overcoming typical barriers in the referral process. Staff has been busy in coordinating the McGill Quality of Life Survey.

UGA Interior Design students have been visiting AgrAbility customers during the month to make their homes more accessible. They will be presenting their design plans to the farmers, faculty and staff in December, and also to VR for possible funding of certain aspects such as wider doors.

Submitted by Rebecca Brightwell