Expanding Vocational Training Opportunities in Lancaster Featuring Allison Hawthorne & Jay Grisafi: Episode 164

Lancaster Connects

In this episode, we welcome Allison Hawthorne and Jay Grisafi from Homefields, an award-winning non-profit organization dedicated to creating new life options for individuals with disabilities. Located on a picturesque 19-acre property in Millersville, PA, Homefields provides a nurturing environment where six adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive in a modern ranch house and an 1800s farmhouse. For the past 30 years, Homefields Care Farm has engaged hundreds of individuals facing disabilities or other barriers to traditional employment, empowering them to grow chemical-free produce for community shareholders.

Joining her, Jay, a Special Education teacher from Conestoga Valley, discusses his students' experiences with vocational training and learn-by-doing programs. Together, they highlight the impact of competitive employment on individuals' lives, fostering autonomy, independence, and a sense of belonging within the community.

Join us for this inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of vocational training and community engagement for individuals with disabilities.