Ohio

The Ohio AgrAbility team had a productive August, participating in various outreach events. One highlight was their presence at Farm Days, hosted by the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus from August 9th to 14th. Their engaging Farm Hazard Hunt, a farm diorama showcasing over 20 safety hazards, proved to be a popular attraction. Children were captivated by the miniature farm scene and its realistic dangers, while adults from diverse fields like power companies, OSHA, factory supervision, nursing, and insurance recognized hazards relevant to their own work.

Farm Days also featured other hands-on exhibits, such as farm machinery demonstrations, a life-sized dairy cow for simulated milking, and interactive seed planting activities guided by OSU Master Gardener volunteers. The Ohio AgrAbility staff actively engaged with attendees, discussing the organization's valuable work in assisting farmers with disabilities and receiving positive feedback and appreciation for their efforts.

The OAP staff introduced a new educational resource: OAP Coloring Pages. These vibrant illustrations depict farm and garden scenes, providing children with a fun and engaging way to learn about farming while incorporating information about disability-inclusive practices. The back of each coloring page features kid-friendly explanations about the challenges and solutions associated with farming with a disability, fostering understanding, and empathy.

The OAP team continues to actively engage with the community by attending inclusive livestock shows across the state. These events provide valuable opportunities to connect with county development disability staff and initiate discussions about potential partnerships in education and workforce development. By participating in these shows, OAP demonstrates its commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and fostering inclusive agricultural practices.

Submitted by Laura Akgerman