OUR MISSION
The mission of Heritage Farm, Inc. is to provide an individualized program for each participant that reflects the founding belief that farming and rural life foster self-worth, independence and a sense of responsibility toward family, friends and community. We hold to the principle that the person comes first, not the disability.
CORE VALUES & BELIEFS
Intention
The programs and services of Heritage Farm, Inc. intentionally utilize a homegrown project-based learning curriculum, which cultivates unique rural teaching methods with the individual’s interests, and outcomes central to the planning process. Our programs and PBL projects purposefully embody innovative and resourceful ideas for service delivery which are delicately balanced between the ISP driven “teachable moment(s)” and the enriching benefits that present themselves when being part of a rural farming community.
Relationship
Heritage Farm, Inc. strives to create an environment of genuine compassion, empathy and concern between staff and those we serve. It is our belief that placing emphasis on the development and maintenance of strong, therapeutic relationships where we as “teachers” demonstrate a willingness and an understanding of what individuals are feeling and/or going through creates a natural, safe and supportive educational environment to foster individual growth.
Inclusion
Through assimilation of individuals with varying abilities, services at Heritage Farm support the development of strong family bonds, friendships and community relations. Carefully planned enriching experiences provide the opportunity for inclusion, as well as the environment for open and equal association amongst people with diverse abilities.
Empowerment
Heritage Farm, Inc. believes in encouraging people to strive for and to reach their full potential. It is our belief that greater self worth and independence can be achieved through individuals experiencing ownership and feeling a sense of accomplishment. We are committed to providing unique farming experiences in which individuals are supported and empowered to complete tasks that ultimately lead them to succeed both in recreation and in life.
Quality
At Heritage Farm, Inc. quality is the elevated degree of excellence at which we strive to infuse into all aspects of the agencies’ operations. Our attention to quality ensures that our participants can learn in a safe, enjoyable, and educational environment where each person will receive premier levels of staff support while utilizing our multitude of agency resources.
OUR STORY
Many harvests ago, a shared vision existed between a husband and wife that an actual working farm designed specifically for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, would tender a very therapeutic and enriching venue to foster growth and independence.
In the spring of 1985 that vision came to life, a byproduct of community collaboration and dedication to providing a unique alternative to service delivery resulting in the birth of Heritage Farm. For five years, Jean and Richard Nikiel cultivated their vision on a small rented parcel of land given to them from the Livermore family. The space, which included an old majestic farmhouse and several rustic out buildings, was an ideal location to support such an endeavor.
In 1990, Heritage Farm moved to the Howard Homestead on Route 46 in Bouckville, NY where it established its roots. Nestled in a valley on 170+ acres of beautifully lush countryside, Heritage Farm provides an array of farming and rural life opportunities to individuals throughout Madison County and its surrounding areas. Picturesque gardens, a working greenhouse, and a menagerie of small farm animals, serve as vehicles for habilitation, education and opportunities to cultivate greater independence and a sense of responsibility toward family, friends and community.
