Empowering Individuals with I/DD: Inside The Farmer’s House
The Farmer’s House is a vibrant, inclusive community where youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are empowered to pursue their best lives. Located in North Kansas City, Platte City and Weston, MO, The Farmer’s House offers dynamic programming that helps individuals explore their potential and take meaningful steps toward employment, independence and integration.
At eitas, we believe that every person should have access to a real, integrated life. That belief is the foundation of our partnership funding with The Farmer’s House—a collaboration that’s creating tangible impact for students and families in Jackson County and beyond.
Empowering the I/DD Community Through Vocational Discovery
The Farmer’s House began in 2010 with a simple yet powerful vision: create a future-focused, skill-building environment for youth and adults with I/DD. Founded by two moms, the nonprofit started with eight students gardening in a small plot across from its now well-known Weston farm location.
Today, the mission has grown into a multi-site organization that serves over 300 students annually through a range of programs rooted in vocational development. Participants gain hands-on experience across three primary curriculum areas: horticulture and gardening, food preparation and catering and retail operations.
“Our mission is to empower youth and adults with different abilities to live their best lives,” said Melanie Hudgens, Director of Early Work Experience and Social Enterprises. “We see each student’s time here as a major stepping stone to long-term success—whether that’s employment, attending our Community Integration program or independent living.”
Early Work Experience: Building Skills, Building Confidence
At the heart of The Farmer’s House is its flagship Early Work Experience program—directly supported by eitas. This program offers students ages 11 through 21 the opportunity to explore career paths, learn real-world job skills and build confidence in a supportive and authentic work environment (19 school districts and 7 counties).
Thanks to our ongoing partnership with The Farmer’s House, school districts across Jackson County are now accessing these services at no cost. Participation has grown from 12 to nearly 70 Jackson County students in just over a year.
“Many of our students come weekly, and by the time they graduate, they’ve often logged more than 200 hours of work experience,” Melanie explained. “It’s not just about whether someone ends up with a job—it’s about helping them uncover what they’re capable of.”
Whether mastering a retail register or learning to prepare food safely, students receive personalized support, visual step-by-step guides and ongoing assessment. The goal? Ensure every individual has the opportunity to thrive—on their own terms.
A Unique Approach to Disability Services in Jackson County
What makes The Farmer’s House different isn’t just its farm setting—it’s the mindset. Every program is built around the belief that ability looks different for everyone and success shouldn’t be narrowly defined.
“As a parent of someone with Down syndrome, I wanted my daughter to attend a program where she could thrive and continue to learn important skills," she shared. “Everyone who participates in our program is part of a dynamic, engaged community. We capitalize on each person’s hidden strengths and the impact is real.”
That philosophy also fuels innovation. The team is constantly asking what’s next—listening to students and families to build programming that reflects their evolving needs. Whether it’s launching a new program or expanding their legacy employment program, the staff are thought-leaders shaping the future of inclusive employment in the metro area.
They’ve even taken entrepreneurship on the road with Catering and Sweet & Salty Celebrations, a mobile concession cart operated by program participants that brings fudge and roasted nuts to businesses and events across the region.
Lifelong Connection, Lasting Impact
The team at The Farmer’s House doesn’t stop supporting students when they graduate. Through newsletters and surveys, they keep families connected and informed about progress, opportunities and next steps.
“We know not everyone wants to—or can—work, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t building skills to support a more independent life,” she said. “Success might look like mastering a microwave or acing an interview. And when we run into former students who are working independently, that’s the best feeling in the world.”
A Program That Sells Itself
When asked what advice she’d give to someone considering The Farmer’s House, the answer was simple: just come see it.
“Once you visit, you’ll understand. Whether it’s visiting our markets as a customer, a Zoom call, a classroom tour or by word of mouth, people see how unique this program really is,” she said. “It’s a place where people are seen, supported and encouraged to grow.”
To learn more about The Farmer’s House, explore upcoming events, or get involved as a volunteer or donor, visit thefarmershouse.org.
Learn More About Our Partnerships
At eitas, we’re proud to support forward-thinking partners like The Farmer’s House—organizations that redefine what’s possible for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Visit our Funding page to learn more about our program investment and funding initiatives.
Because a life fully lived is everyone’s to have.