Special Programs at OMF
Old McDonald's Farm, Inc. (OMF) OMF was developed out the passion of several
people who knew that children and adults, if presented with the challenges and
healthy life opportunities on a farm, would learn to be compassionate and capable
"can do" people.
Our mission is "in facilitating healthy social and emotional development,
OMF is committed to providing at-risk protective factors to children and adults
through structured, educational experiences using animals, agriculture, gardens
and natural resources as educational tools." Why use animals or agriculture or
a garden to teach? Frankly, people are already interested and eager which is
an excellent place to start their educational process. OMF's primary goal is
to teach children and adults responsibility and respect for themselves, other
people, animals and the environment. Supplemental lessons in world geography,
mathematics, history, healthcare and nurturing, safety and self restraint,
writing mechanics, communication skills, vocational training, life-cycles and
interconnectedness of all living things, commercial uses of animals and plants,
recycling composting and proper land management skills are also taught. We are
not necessarily teaching children and adults to be farmers, but rather using
a farm to teach wholesome, healthy life lessons to people.
What Programs Does OMF Offer:
Day Visit Program (educational field trips), Summer Programs (week-long camps)
and Special Programs for folks with special needs
What Are Special Programs?
This program gives us an opportunity to be flexible and to serve students and
adults with special needs. We will work with the district or agency to develop
a Farm Education Plan for each student, adult or small group. We will also
provide feedback and documentation to show the progress made on their behavioral,
academic or vocational goals throughout their time at OMF. Special Programs
allow agencies, parents and students the chance to plan, develop and execute
individual or group projects with the support of OMF staff. As an example,
we serve two adults through Multnomah County Developmental Disabilities Service.
Plus, at the request of Multnomah Educational Service District (ESD), high school
students of the Functional Living Skills class from Reynolds, Gresham-Barlow,
Centennial and Corbett School Districts come twice per week to participate in
structured, educational activities to receive vocational training and learn
good, life skills. Multnomah ESD has also asked us to teach TAG (Talented
and Gifted) classes for students from Centennial, Parkrose and Corbett
Districts. In addition, we have worked weekly with a child and a mentor
through Services to Families and Children. The possibilities for Special
Programs abound.
How Can I Get A Child/Adult Involved:
Call today to do a site visit of the farm. There is no better way to tell our
story than for you to come and see our educational farm site for yourself.
What Is The Cost:
The cost for implementing the Special Program is different for each person and
ranges from $16 to $26 per hour. The price depends on factors such as: will
there be another agency staff person assisting; numbers of students served at
one time; what are the academic and/or behavioral goals; is the client a
self-directed learner or do they need constant supervision; length of program
each day and how many days per week; et cetera. We do not serve students or
adults on a "drop-off" basis. A safe, structured, educational program will
be put in place for a minimum of three months and for a designated time period
so we may positively impact people's lives.
We look forward to providing a unique, educational experience. Please call us today at 503/695-3316.
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