Florida

The Roots to Work agricultural training program for young adults with disabilities hosted two groups of participants during November. Their open house on November 7th welcomed six individuals and their families to a hands-on overview of the upcoming course beginning in January 2026. Attendees were introduced to horticultural skills, explored the garden, conducted soil samples, and discovered career options in the agricultural field. The second group, partnered with Angels Bridging Gaps, has participated in ongoing agricultural lessons and field experiences since January 2025. Participants engaged with hands-on learning at a citrus grove and packing house on November 20th. Ten participants and their families learned about the Florida citrus industry, from field to consumption

On November 12th, Florida AgrAbility presented a webinar featuring Keith Gerena, veterans employment training services manager at Veterans Florida. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran with deep agricultural roots, Keith shared his journey from growing up on a sustainable family farm in Puerto Rico to helping veterans across Florida transition into fulfilling civilian careers, many of which begin in the field. This webinar focused on how veterans with disabilities can access career training, hands-on agricultural experiences, and vital support services through programs like Veterans Florida Agriculture. Participants learned about SkillBridge internships, entrepreneurial pathways, and how real-world experience and military work ethic can translate into meaningful agricultural opportunities.

Submitted by Tara Dorn