On November 7, the Indiana AgrAbility Advisory Team met for their semi-annual meeting at Purdue University to review program activities and provide valuable input and guidance for the Indiana AgrAbility team moving forward. The Advisory Team, in addition to staff, consists of 33 representatives from agriculture, government, the disability community, and education, along with AgrAbility clients from throughout the state. The November meeting featured two special presentations. Watch Us Farm near Zionsville, Indiana, provides inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Program founder Janice Agarwal discussed the farm's mission, history, and future plans to serve those impacted by disability. AgrAbility Advisory Team member Jennifer Logue, Purdue Extension 4-H and agriculture educator in Union County, Indiana, proposed options for using 4-H SPARK clubs to serve youth with disabilities, as well as promote disability awareness. SPARK clubs are Extension-sponsored youth programs that focus on a specific or unique topic, and operate alongside traditional 4-H club work.
Submitted by Ed Sheldon