AgrAbility

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In the News

The first AgrAbility Program based in the State of New Mexico.

Through a federally-funded partnership with New Mexico State University, the New Mexico Technology Assistance Program, and the University of New Mexico, Mandy’s Farm offers programming designed specifically for people with disabilities who wish to access education and vocational support designed to cultivate a career in farming.

With access to land, water, infrastructure, tools, and technical assistance, participants are able to explore farming with all of its potential risks and successes.

Eligibility | Availability

Who's it for?

People 18 years of age and older with a disability who are interested in a career in farming

Type of Experience

AgrAbility apprentices complete a year-long program designed to prepare them to work on an existing farm or start a micro-business of their own. Apprentices obtain hands-on and classroom-based training in growing vegetables, cultivating fruit, caring for small livestock, and much more. Following the completion of their apprenticeship, disabled farmers have the opportunity to incubate their own farming business within Mandy’s Farm.

Program Availability

The AgrAbility Apprenticeship Program accepts new farming apprentices (members of the community who identify as disabled and who are interested in a career in farming) in cohorts. To be considered for the next cohort of farmers, complete this interest form: AgrAbility Interest Form.

Getting Started

Following apprenticeship graduation, individuals have access to growing space provided by Mandy’s Farm in order to launch their own micro-farming business. Acting as an agricultural incubator, Mandy’s Farm will provide ongoing support and technical assistance as participants explore farming with all of its potential risks and successes.

To request more information about the program, or to register for classes, please complete the staff contact form below.

Sylvan Yellow Rose

AgrAbility Program Coordinator

Sylvan leads the amazing AgrAbility crew in running the Lakeview farm and farm training programs. They are committed to increasing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in agriculture and providing people with tools to have transformative relationships with the natural world. Before joining Mandy’s, Sylvan ran a garden center, taught botany and gardening, and grew all kinds of food and medicine in all kinds of places, in addition to working as a nursing assistant and exercise assistant for people with disabilities. They hold a bachelor’s of science degree in Sustainable Agriculture from The Evergreen State College.