Colorado

In September, Hannah Cefalo and Ashley Buchanan presented at two of the four Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) regional "Community of Practice" meetings. Each rehabilitation specialist was given a full hour to introduce AgrAbility 101, provide an in-depth overview of the DVR report components, and explore opportunities for greater collaboration between DVR and Colorado AgrAbility. Their presentation emphasized how partnerships and streamlined referrals can enhance support for farmers and ranchers with physical limitations and created an opportunity for new DVR counselors to learn more about the program!

Cody, a U.S. Army veteran with a traumatic brain injury and new Colorado AgrAbility client, has begun developing a farm-based sanctuary for veterans in the Colorado Springs area. As part of his journey, and as a collaboration with CSU Extension, Cody partnered with Don, a previous AgrAbility client (pictured on the right), for labor support. This collaboration allowed Cody to gain hands-on experience and knowledge from an established farmer, while Don benefited from assistance with farm tasks that have become challenging due to his functional limitations. The partnership and support from CSU Extension further strengthened the network of resources available to both clients.

Submitted by Hannah Cefalo