Disabled Employees

[AJ Drew]

Our farm is so not ready for employees.  Might have one this fall, but part time and more of a helper than an employee.  Still, as long as I do not screw things up things are looking good.  Have agreements with a couple small sauce makers and access to land and equipment for future seasons should things really start to fly.

So just kind of pondering ideas.  Want to share with other folk who got all gimped up in one way or another.  Do you think it would be nuts to only hired the disabled, try to get them back to being productive?

Main thought is that many have limits.  Couldnt pay people to not work, but could make sure they have food, bunk house, and sense of security even when they only work minimum hours.

Ye, ye I know this is a hippy dippy (thats me) feel good sort of idea that is not particularly suited to making money.  Thing is, while making money is necessary I dont think that is my main goal.  Gotta admit, would make for some loyal employees.

 

[SmokenFire]

I dig the cut of yer jib hippie!  Physically disabled v mentally disabled - big difference there.  Those who don't have use of their legs could help clean/wash/sort/package, there are a lot of things people can do if given the chance.  Here are couple links for some local services that might help get you pointed in the right direction.
 
Kentucky Works
 
Think Beyond the Label

 

[Scuba_Steve]

Being disabled as well, I say that type of mentality is awesome!  Just be sure to outline exactly what they need to do to be productive at the work you need done, and find ways to accommodate their disabilities, whatever they are.

 

[tctenten]

That would be pretty awesome AJ.

 

[salsalady]

I can see opportunity for work for both physically or mentally disabled/challenged people in a farming operation.  Someone in a wheelchair could save and sort seeds like crazy, and a mentally challenged person could weed to beat the band.  They take a bit more oversight and if hired, would have to be paid on the books as employees.  If you haven't done the Employee-thing before....MAKE SURE!!!!.... you get help from your local business resource people to get all the state/federal tax schtuff figured out.  It's a PITA, and if you are taking care of all aspects of your business yourself...it's a lot to take care of and keep on top of.  Just saying.....
 
 
 
 
One of our local organic farms would hire interns for summer work.  They provided some lodging, meals, dunno all the details....but the interns were young, enthusiastic, able to work long hours.......in exchange for learning all about organic farming.