Welcome to The Weekly Dirt.
We have made it to our second installment of The Weekly Dirt. As a reminder, or for those new here, these emails are a quick look in to what’s happening at the farm. You'll find information on what’s growing (literally and figuratively), what we’ve been up to, what’s coming next, a small moment of joy, and we end with a short “Did You Know?”
If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions about anything you read, or about the farm in general - please reach out to us - we are but an email away.
Thanks for being here. Let’s dig in! |
Our crew just returned from the 2nd Annual Care Farming Network National Conference, held this year in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
With the theme Rooted and Rising: Growing the Future of Care Farming, the gathering brought together farmers, educators, practitioners, and advocates from across the country who are all working toward the same goal: creating farms that are places of belonging, healing, and purpose.
Over three full days, our team connected with others doing this work in their own communities, shared what we’re building here at Homesteads for Hope, and gathered ideas, inspiration, and renewed energy to bring home. It was a meaningful reminder that while our farm is local, we’re part of a growing national movement — one rooted in care, connection, and possibility. |
We’re grateful to be learning alongside others who believe in the power of this work, and we’re excited to keep growing.
Opportunities like this strengthen what happens on our farm every day, helping us grow with intention and stay connected to a larger movement. |
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We kicked off our first community event of the year with a Valentine’s Bingo Party at the farm and it was exactly the kind of evening we hoped for.
There was bingo (with plenty of prizes), pizza, drinks, and snacks shared around full tables. Heart garlands were made by hand, balloons were hung, and laughter carried from one space to the next. It felt good to gather again- to see familiar faces, welcome new ones, and watch conversations spark over something as simple as a bingo card. And yes, we can't forget about the Macarena.
Most of all, the farmhouse felt warm. Not just because it was full, but because of the energy in the room; smiles, encouragement, people cheering each other on. It was a reminder of why we host these events in the first place.
We’re looking ahead to the rest of the year with excitement and hope you’ll join us for what’s coming next. If you’ve been meaning to come out and experience the community the farm has to offer, this is your invitation.
We’re just getting started. |
The Arc of Monroe will be joining us to share information about their employment services and supports. This will be a chance to learn what employment readiness can look like, what kinds of supports exist, and how people of all abilities can be supported in finding and keeping meaningful work. There will be time to ask questions and talk through real-world concerns- whether you’re exploring options for yourself, a family member, or someone you support.
The presentation will be led by Charis Happ, LMSW, Director of Transition Services at Job Path (a division of The Arc of Monroe). Charis brings nearly a decade of experience in supported employment, transition programs, and job coaching, and works closely with individuals, families, and teams to help people move toward employment that fits their strengths and goals.
Schedule
This event is free and open to the public (registration required).
Event will take place in the main farmhouse — please park by the farm store and walk across. |
ROC Strong Club’s Greatest Charity Workout is a one-hour community fitness event that brings people together to move, connect, and support a good cause. This special workout benefits Homesteads for Hope, a Rochester-based nonprofit community farm focused on building inclusive spaces where people of all abilities feel welcomed, valued, and connected. Every movement helps support programs and classes that create real opportunities for belonging and growth right here in our community.
Expect red-carpet entrances, DJ-driven vibes, confetti blasts, epic group finishers, and an atmosphere that feels more like a celebration than a workout. Bold, inclusive, and built to make a massive impact in just 60 minutes, this event proves that fitness can be powerful, joyful, and purpose-driven.
This marks our second year partnering together, and we’re coming back bigger, louder, and more impactful than ever. Together, ROC Strong Club and Homesteads for Hope are working to build inclusive community and ensure people of all abilities feel seen, supported, and valued. |
This week we worked on wreath making from our collection of dried flowers and materials, during our Wreath Loom Class.
This reaction from Alex is one we thought perfect for this weeks moment of joy!
May this smile carry you happily through the weekend. |
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Did you know? About one out of every three bites of food we eat exists thanks to pollinators (like bees, butterflies, birds, bats and other animals). Talk about spreading the love! |
If you would like to give feedback on this newsletter,
please reach out to: info@homesteadsforhope.org |
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