Pennsylvania

Greetings in 2023! From Pennsylvania to your state, Happy New Year!

The AgrAbility PA staff held a retreat in early December. The goals of the retreat included assessing the current standing of grant objectives, combing through feedback provided by the Advisory Board this fall at the annual meeting, and setting goals for the future. It proved to be a worthwhile time for deeper conversations and reflection on the work and purpose of AgrAbility.

Historically, the month of December has meant looking forward to the month of January where Pennsylvania hosts two major farm show events within the first full week of the new year at the same time. The staff spent time in December prepping exhibits and creating display content, which includes a "How to" handout on funding assistive technology.

Staffer Abbie Spackman presented to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Urban Ag Sub-committee information about AgrAbility, accessibility, assistive technology, and working with farmers who have disabilities. Information was also provided on some of the differences and similarities between rural and urban ag as it relates to disability and assistive technology. The committee was excited to learn about AgrAbility and will be working with AgrAbility as they continue to expand their outreach to urban ag communities.

AgrAbility staff participated in an Amish-focused outreach day and made a great connection with the Central Pennsylvania Clinic, "a medical home for special children and adults" (primarily members of the Amish community with genetic disorders). The clinic provides health care, education, and family support for the Plain community across a wide region. AgrAbility PA staff provided information about the services and support available and will be continuing to work with the Central Pennsylvania Clinic in the future.

Submitted by Kendra Martin