WHAT WE DO
Our Mission – to encourage others to connect with nature, themselves and each other.
Horticultural Therapy
Horticultural Therapy uses plants and gardening activities to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It is a therapeutic approach that engages individuals in gardening and plant-based activities, helping then to connect with nature and reap the benefits of this interaction. This form of therapy offers a sense of accomplishment, an increase in self-esteem, while cultivating community and promoting relaxation and stress reduction, all contributing factors to overall health and wellness.
Where’s the Farm?
In a community garden space, yard, plant container, balcony, potted plant on your desk or windowsill – in short all over!
12 Acre Farms is an adjunct program that’s brought to organizations. The hands-on planting and nature-based workshops are conducted onsite in small groups. Sessions help people reconnect to themselves, each other and the natural world in addition to being fun and relaxing. Sessions are conducted by a Registered Horticultural Therapist, Master’s level educator and Peer Support Specialist.
12 Acre Farms activities also feature the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous for much of the therapeutic principles and practices applied – hence, the name 12 Acre Farms.
WORKSHOPS
A variety of plant and plant-based activities are brought to clients, residents, and staff, including all supplies needed. Indoor and outdoor 12 Acre Farm kinesthetic activities are perfect for in-service trainings, after school programs, community garden projects, visitation programs, advocacy events and holidays.