The mission of Mountain Creek Farms, Inc. is to provide employment and independent living opportunities for individuals with autism by providing a range of services to individuals, and support to families looking for their sons and daughters entering adulthood.
What is unique or special about serving adults with autism in a rural area of the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia?
We have found that a farm and rural community settings offer rich, varied and abundant opportunities for self-paced, distraction-free activities that help the people we serve gain skills and feel a sense of inclusion and meaning. The individuals we serve are able to see the process of their work and are able to enjoy the product of their labor. This natural reinforcement is a affirmation of their skills and hard work which brings them person dignity and sense of self-worth. Farming provides an opportunity for reciprocal partnership between those who farm and the community in which farmers live. It is a rustic, secure and safe environment in which individuals with challenging behaviors and limited social and communication skills can grow and develop into their fullest potential. All of our activities are designed to meet the wide range and abilities of persons from the entire spectrum of Autism Disorders. Such activities include ...
- agriculture in all its forms, including planting and harvesting
- horticulture in all its forms, including seeding operations
- fencing and landscaping
- construction
- repair and maintenance
- produce collection and marketing
- animal feeding and care
- craft-making and
- woodworking
Those who live at Mountain Creek Farms develop a sense of husbandry, accomplishment and ownership. It is their home, and they work hard to make it as warm and inviting as possible. The activities they engage in each day prove to be not only of great therapeutic value but also contribute strongly to vocational training. The individuals we serve strive to be an integral part of their community contributing as any other member would.
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