Missouri

April 10 - 14, Missouri AgrAbility co-hosted a successful Armed to Farm Sustainable Agriculture Training for military veterans in partnership with the Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) and Veterans Urban Farm in Columbia, Missouri. The week-long training featured daily farm tours and hands-on activities at a variety of successful farms. Participants learned from seasoned farmers and gained direct experience on livestock, vegetable, fruit, and agritourism operations. While in the classroom, participants learned about sustainable agriculture that included how to adopt climate-resilient practices in regenerative approaches, agroforestry as a land management approach, and accessible sustainable beekeeping to address financial and personal wellness. At the end of the conference, veteran farmers reported having gained 100% new knowledge about 1) how to run a successful business, 2) marketing their products, 3) accessing USDA programs, 4) setting business goals, 5) developing meaningful mentorships, 6) managing their physical health: recognizing personal stressors and requesting information and resources for agricultural rehabilitation and vocational training for veteran farmers and ranchers, and 7) selecting ergonomic tools and anti-vibration gloves for small-scale farmers and ranchers.

Karen Funkenbusch, Missouri AgrAbility, had a great time demonstrating and discussing the Life Essentials accessible tractor lift with Ellis Vidmar of Colorado AgrAbility and Marty Cotterman of LifeLyfts by Life Essentials, at the National AgrAbility display during AOTA Inspire 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri. The Annual AOTA Conference & Expo is the place for occupational therapists to expand their knowledge, enhance skills, and stay up to date on the latest assistive technologies and evidence-based research in the profession.

Submitted by: Karen Funkenbusch, Emily Doosing, Tevin Uthlaut, Elizabeth Picking

Missouri AgrAbility was featured on the Brain Injury Association of Missouri exhibit at the Missouri Assistive Technology Power Up Conference on April 3 and 4. Approximately 450 professionals from across Missouri participated in this conference that features services and assistance for individuals with various disabilities. The professionals learned about Missouri AgrAbility services and assistance through the Brain Injury Association of Missouri.

Submitted by: Maureen Cunningham