Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience: Tennessee AgrAbility Project target audiences include: farmers and homeowners with disabilities, and their family members; agricultural, medical, rehabilitation professionals; veterans organizations; and disabilities services organizations. Delivery formats include on-site assessments and assistance; presentations at meetings, workshops and agricultural field days; online and print resources. Changes/Problems:This is the finnal report for the 2013-2017 Tennessee AgrAbility Project; however, a new 2017-2021 Tennessee AgrAbility Project was awarded (Cooperative Agreement 2017-41590-27104) that continues the current AgrAbility objectives and activities. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?80 TSU Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students received training on farming as an occupation, farm culture and rural disability issues. Additional college OT/PT programs are scheduled for 2018. Murray State (KY) University Occupational Safety students, under direction of TNAP, presented 112 disability awareness classes for 810 middle and high school students in western KY and TN. TNAP networked health and disability service providers by presenting at 6 physical and occupational therapy staff meetings, 32 health organizations and a poster at the National Occupational Therapy Association Conference. TNAP strengthened partnerships with TN USDA NRCS through the Technical Advisory Committee and Civil Rights/Special Emphasis Program Managers Committee. Veterans outreach included in-services for 125 TN Veterans Services Officers. TNAP networked Veterans Administration, other veterans organizations, and FVC to support organizing a TN FVC chapter and promote the Homegrown by Heroes brand for veterans' produce. Tennessee hopes to receive a FVC chapter soon. TNAP attended monthly East TN Military Affairs Council (ETMAC) meetings. ETMAC is a non-profit organization to recognize, encourage, support and advocate for, and on behalf of, military activities in East TN. Tennessee AgrAbility staff and partners participate in AgrAbility National Training Workshops, Virtual National Training Workshops, and other training opportunities. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Tennessee AgrAbility Project activities and accomplishments are shared with partners, customers and the public through: Direct education for farmers, farm workers, family members Agriculture field days, conferences, expos, health fairs, agricultural producer meetings and other venues College programs including occupational therapy, physical therapy, occupational safety and and engineering. Meetings and in-services for organization including Vocational Rehabilitation, Veterans Administration, Veterans Services, USDA agencies and Tennessee agencies, University of Tennessee and Tennessee State University Extension Project website and social media What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?This is the finnal report for the 2013-2017 Tennessee AgrAbility Project; however, a new 2017-2021 Tennessee AgrAbility Project was awarded (Cooperative Agreement 2017-41590-27104) that continues the current AgrAbility objectives and activities. Additionally, AgrAbility partners with the University of Tennessee Extension and Tennessee State University Cooperative Extension and the new UT Extension Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Project (Cooperative Agreement 2017-70017-26859) to share referrals and assist beginning farmers and veterans that are as target audiences of there complementary projects.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The ultimate Tennessee AgrAbility Project (TNAP) goal is direct, on-farm education and assistance to farmers, farm workers and family members with disabilities to achieve their goals by working with agricultural and health professionals to develop and implement plans of action for increased independence and productivity. The process includes educating farm families and professionals on impacts of disabilities on the self-employed, agricultural practices, assistive technologies, safety and available services and funding. Priority Area 1: Education During 2013-2017, TNAP provided direct education for farmers, farm workers, family members and the public through 118 agriculture field days, conferences, expos, health fairs, meetings and Progressive Agriculture Safety Days; 28 winter agricultural producer meetings; 3 home and garden shows; 3 leadership meetings and 2 radio programs. Arthritis awareness included 7 farmer meetings and 8 Walk with Ease arthritis courses. TNAP presented at the American Occupational Therapy Association meeting in Nashville for 750 people. TNAP co-hosted a Regional Arthritis, AgrAbility and Rural Health Conference and National Arthritis Conference in 2016. TNAP hosted arthritis exhibits at TN Extension Assn. of Family & Consumer Sciences and Assn. of Extension 4-H Workers conferences. TNAP and partners presented "Creative Approaches to Improve the Health of Farmers and Their Families in Tennessee" at a Rural Health Association of TN, Inc. conference. 80 TSU Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students received training on farming as an occupation, farm culture and rural disability issues. Additional college OT/PT programs are scheduled in 2018. Murray State (KY) University Occupational Safety students, under direction of TNAP, presented 112 disability awareness classes for 810 middle and high school students in western KY and TN. Veterans outreach included in-services for 125 TN Veterans Services Officers. TNAP referred 100 farmer veterans to Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), and partnered with a FVC member to host a Farmer Veteran Workshop in Montgomery County in 2016 with 95 attendees learning about Extension, USDA and TN programs and resources for Beginning Farmers. TNAP participated in 6 Extension Beginning Farmer workshops in 2016-2017 attended by 200 with little or no farming experience desiring to start farming enterprises. TNAP and University of KY College of Nursing hosted the "Older Farmer Farm Safety and Health" dinner theatres in 3 counties. Realistic farm stories encourage discussions on farm safety and how aging affects health and safety. TNAP participated in 22 youth safety events attended by 3,000. Four safety days at 4-H camps led by 4-H Teen Leaders covered disability awareness and safety. Co-hosted the 2015 Young Farmers and Ranchers Farm Bureau Summer Conference with Progressive Agriculture Safety Day, TN Farm Bureau and KY Department of Ag. Farm and Home Safety Program. Tennessee hosted the 2017 AgrAbility National Training Workshop (NTW) in Knoxville. Four TNAP staff and 8 TN farmers attended. 11 TN speakers presented farm business management, Horticultural Therapy, PTSD, TN New Farmer Academy, Use of Drones, Chicken Production (Coops for Troops), Legacy Planning and panel discussions. There were 239 attendees from 34 states and Canada; 61 presenters; 45 sessions; 25 exhibitors. Priority Area 2: Networking Networking agencies, organizations and individuals extends TNAP reach and capacity through direct and in-kind financial and technical assistance. In addition, more than $25,000 in donated funds and products was obtained to increase independence and productivity for TNAP customers. TNAP networked with agriculture businesses to organize four 5K walks, and 236 participants raised $2,400 to assist TNAP customers. TNAP networked health and disability service providers by presenting at 6 physical and occupational therapy staff meetings, 32 health organizations and a poster at the National Occupational Therapy Association Conference. TNAP strengthened partnerships with TN USDA NRCS through the Technical Advisory Committee and Civil Rights/Special Emphasis Program Managers Committee. TNAP networked Veterans Administration, other veterans organizations, and FVC to support organizing a TN FVC chapter and promote the Homegrown by Heroes brand for veterans' produce. Tennessee hopes to receive a FVC chapter soon. TNAP attended monthly East TN Military Affairs Council (ETMAC) meetings. ETMAC is a non-profit organization to recognize, encourage, support and advocate for, and on behalf of, military activities in East TN. Recruiting community-based TNAP peers continued, including veterans. 20 individuals in Year 4 helped develop the 2017-2021 TNAP proposal and 2017-2020 TN Beginning Farmer Development Program proposal. Tennessee is considered a high risk state for tractor rollovers, and TNAP staff and farmers participated in national ROPS Rebate program focus groups to discuss proposed ROPS promotion messages. Priority Area 3: Assistance Direct and indirect education and assistance was provided to 236 farmers and their families in 2013-2017. 104 on-farm assessments reviewed farm worksites and homes, individuals' accessibility needs, and developed plans for increased independence and productivity. Agricultural and health professionals worked with individuals and organizations to implement home and workplace modifications and assistive technologies, with appropriate referrals to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and other services for technical and financial assistance. Some projects were self-funded, others by local charities and some with TNAP Assistive Technology Fund donations managed by a nonprofit partner. Beginning farmers are referred to county Extension, USDA and TN agriculture agencies, and to the TN New Farmer Academy by Academy (TNFA) of TSU Extension, a 7-month certificate program for agricultural entrepreneurs. Priority Area 4: Marketing Marketing is integral to all activities and increases TNAP awareness among stakeholders and potential customers, and leads to new educational opportunities for staff and farmers. It involves a combination of methods, including: project website, social media, direct e-mails, exhibits and activities at agricultural field days, Extension and farm organizations meetings, in-service training for professionals, and word-of-mouth. TNAP continues to increase its online presence with Facebook to provide quick access to information and increase awareness of issues and events of interest to people with disabilities in rural areas. Selected quotes from TNAP customers describe some impacts of the program: A Rutherford County livestock farmer, a bilateral above knee amputee, received TNAP and VR assistance to obtain standing lifts for his two tractors, and continues farming with reduced risk of secondary injuries. He states, "I am very grateful for the assistance of TN AgrAbility and VR in helping with the tractor lifts. My tractors are my legs. Even though I am getting older, I have to continue to farm, because it's my job." A Gibson County blackberry farmer said, "A friend said I needed to call you. I am having back problems along with arthritis, and pruning these blackberries are about to get the best of me." TNAP identified helped purchase a suitable pruner. "It's a lifesaver, just a lifesaver," he said, while his wife nodded in agreement. A Montgomery County Farmer Veteran and AgrAbility advocate says, "Farm Service Agency believed I could farm when no one else did and approved my loan. Now I want all farmer veterans to know about USDA services like AgrAbility and FSA". The FSA loan allowed him to purchase 20 acres and start raising longhorn cattle. This farmer hosted a Farmer Veteran Workshop with support of Extension and FSA. Due his efforts and success, Mr. Charley Jordan earned the Most Improved Beginning Small Farmer Award at the 2016 TN Small Farm Expo.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/13 to 08/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience:Tennessee AgrAbility Project target audiences include: farmers and homeowners with disabilities, and their family members; agricultural, medical, rehabilitation professionals; veterans organizations; and disabilities services organizations. Delivery formats include on-site assessments and assistance; presentations at meetings, workshops and agricultural field days; online and print resources. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?80 TSU Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students received training on farming as an occupation, farm culture and rural disability issues. Additional college OT/PT programs are scheduled for 2018. Murray State (KY) University Occupational Safety students, under direction of TNAP, presented 112 disability awareness classes for 810 middle and high school students in western KY and TN. TNAP networked health and disability service providers by presenting at 6 physical and occupational therapy staff meetings, 32 health organizations and a poster at the National Occupational Therapy Association Conference. TNAP strengthened partnerships with TN USDA NRCS through the Technical Advisory Committee and Civil Rights/Special Emphasis Program Managers Committee. Veterans outreach included in-services for 125 TN Veterans Services Officers. TNAP networked Veterans Administration, other veterans organizations, and FVC to support organizing a TN FVC chapter and promote the Homegrown by Heroes brand for veterans' produce. Tennessee hopes to receive a FVC chapter soon. TNAP attended monthly East TN Military Affairs Council (ETMAC) meetings. ETMAC is a non-profit organization to recognize, encourage, support and advocate for, and on behalf of, military activities in East TN. Tennessee AgrAbility staff and partners participate in AgrAbility National Training Workshops, Virtual National Training Workshops, and other training opportunities. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Tennessee AgrAbility Project activities and accomplishments are shared with partners, customers and the public through: Direct education for farmers, farm workers, family members Agriculture field days, conferences, expos, health fairs, agricultural producer meetings and other venues College programs including occupational therapy, physical therapy, occupational safety and and engineering Meetings and in-services for organization including Vocational Rehabilitation, Veterans Administration, Veterans Services, USDA agencies and Tennessee agencies, University of Tennessee and Tennessee State University Extension AgrAbility Project website and social media National AgrAbility Project e-notes newsletters AgrAbility Project National Training Workshop What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?This is the final report for the 2013-2017 Tennessee AgrAbility Project; however, a new 2017-2021 Tennessee AgrAbility Project was awarded (Cooperative Agreement 2017-41590-27104) that continues the current AgrAbility objectives and activities. Additionally, AgrAbility partners with the University of Tennessee Extension and Tennessee State University Cooperative Extension and the new UT Extension Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Project (Cooperative Agreement 2017-70017-26859) to share referrals and assist beginning farmers and veterans that are as target audiences of there complementary projects.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The ultimate Tennessee AgrAbility Project (TNAP) goal is direct, on-farm education and assistance to farmers, farm workers and family members with disabilities to achieve their goals by working with agricultural and health professionals to develop and implement plans of action for increased independence and productivity. The process includes educating farm families and professionals on impacts of disabilities on the self-employed, agricultural practices, assistive technologies, safety and available services and funding. Priority Area 1: Education During 2013-2017, TNAP provided direct education for farmers, farm workers, family members and the public through 118 agriculture field days, conferences, expos, health fairs, meetings and Progressive Agriculture Safety Days; 28 winter agricultural producer meetings; 3 home and garden shows; 3 leadership meetings and 2 radio programs. Arthritis awareness included 7 farmer meetings and 8 Walk with Ease arthritis courses. TNAP presented at the American Occupational Therapy Association meeting in Nashville for 750 people. TNAP co-hosted a Regional Arthritis, AgrAbility and Rural Health Conference and National Arthritis Conference in 2016. TNAP hosted arthritis exhibits at TN Extension Assn. of Family & Consumer Sciences and Assn. of Extension 4-H Workers conferences. TNAP and partners presented "Creative Approaches to Improve the Health of Farmers and Their Families in Tennessee" at a Rural Health Association of TN, Inc. conference. 80 TSU Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students received training on farming as an occupation, farm culture and rural disability issues. Additional college OT/PT programs are scheduled in 2018. Murray State (KY) University Occupational Safety students, under direction of TNAP, presented 112 disability awareness classes for 810 middle and high school students in western KY and TN. Veterans outreach included in-services for 125 TN Veterans Services Officers. TNAP referred 100 farmer veterans to Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), and partnered with a FVC member to host a Farmer Veteran Workshop in Montgomery County in 2016 with 95 attendees learning about Extension, USDA and TN programs and resources for Beginning Farmers. TNAP participated in 6 Extension Beginning Farmer workshops in 2016-2017 attended by 200 with little or no farming experience desiring to start farming enterprises. TNAP and University of KY College of Nursing hosted the "Older Farmer Farm Safety and Health" dinner theatres in 3 counties. Realistic farm stories encourage discussions on farm safety and how aging affects health and safety. TNAP participated in 22 youth safety events attended by 3,000. Four safety days at 4-H camps led by 4-H Teen Leaders covered disability awareness and safety. Co-hosted the 2015 Young Farmers and Ranchers Farm Bureau Summer Conference with Progressive Agriculture Safety Day, TN Farm Bureau and KY Department of Ag. Farm and Home Safety Program. Tennessee hosted the 2017 AgrAbility National Training Workshop (NTW) in Knoxville. Four TNAP staff and 8 TN farmers attended. 11 TN speakers presented farm business management, Horticultural Therapy, PTSD, TN New Farmer Academy, Use of Drones, Chicken Production (Coops for Troops), Legacy Planning and panel discussions. There were 239 attendees from 34 states and Canada; 61 presenters; 45 sessions; 25 exhibitors. Priority Area 2: Networking Networking agencies, organizations and individuals extends TNAP reach and capacity through direct and in-kind financial and technical assistance. In addition, more than $25,000 in donated funds and products was obtained to increase independence and productivity for TNAP customers. TNAP networked with agriculture businesses to organize four 5K walks, and 236 participants raised $2,400 to assist TNAP customers. TNAP networked health and disability service providers by presenting at 6 physical and occupational therapy staff meetings, 32 health organizations and a poster at the National Occupational Therapy Association Conference. TNAP strengthened partnerships with TN USDA NRCS through the Technical Advisory Committee and Civil Rights/Special Emphasis Program Managers Committee. TNAP networked Veterans Administration, other veterans organizations, and FVC to support organizing a TN FVC chapter and promote the Homegrown by Heroes brand for veterans' produce. Tennessee hopes to receive a FVC chapter soon. TNAP attended monthly East TN Military Affairs Council (ETMAC) meetings. ETMAC is a non-profit organization to recognize, encourage, support and advocate for, and on behalf of, military activities in East TN. Recruiting community-based TNAP peers continued, including veterans. 20 individuals in Year 4 helped develop the 2017- 2021 TNAP proposal and 2017-2020 TN Beginning Farmer Development Program proposal. Tennessee is considered a high risk state for tractor rollovers, and TNAP staff and farmers participated in national ROPS Rebate program focus groups to discuss proposed ROPS promotion messages. Priority Area 3: Assistance Direct and indirect education and assistance was provided to 236 farmers and their families in 2013-2017. 104 on-farm assessments reviewed farm worksites and homes, individuals' accessibility needs, and developed plans for increased independence and productivity. Agricultural and health professionals worked with individuals and organizations to implement home and workplace modifications and assistive technologies, with appropriate referrals to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and other services for technical and financial assistance. Some projects were self-funded, others by local charities and some with TNAP Assistive Technology Fund donations managed by a nonprofit partner. Beginning farmers are referred to county Extension, USDA and TN agriculture agencies, and to the TN New Farmer Academy by Academy (TNFA) of TSU Extension, a 7-month certificate program for agricultural entrepreneurs. Selected quotes from TNAP customers describe some impacts of the program: A Rutherford County livestock farmer, a bilateral above knee amputee, received TNAP and VR assistance to obtain standing lifts for his two tractors, and continues farming with reduced risk of secondary injuries. He states, "I am very grateful for the assistance of TN AgrAbility and VR in helping with the tractor lifts. My tractors are my legs. Even though I am getting older, I have to continue to farm, because it's my job." A Gibson County blackberry farmer said, "A friend said I needed to call you. I am having back problems along with arthritis, and pruning these blackberries are about to get the best of me." TNAP identified helped purchase a suitable pruner. "It's a lifesaver, just a lifesaver," he said, while his wife nodded in agreement. A Montgomery County Farmer Veteran and AgrAbility advocate says, "Farm Service Agency believed I could farm when no one else did and approved my loan. Now I want all farmer veterans to know about USDA services like AgrAbility and FSA". The FSA loan allowed him to purchase 20 acres and start raising longhorn cattle. This farmer hosted a Farmer Veteran Workshop with support of Extension and FSA. Due his efforts and success, Mr. Charley Jordan earned the Most Improved Beginning Small Farmer Award at the 2016 TN Small Farm Expo. Priority Area 4: Marketing Marketing is integral to all activities and increases TNAP awareness among stakeholders and potential customers, and leads to new educational opportunities for staff and farmers. It involves a combination of methods, including: project website, social media, direct e-mails, exhibits and activities at agricultural field days, Extension and farm organizations meetings, in-service training for professionals, and word-of-mouth. TNAP continues to increase its online presence with Facebook to provide quick access to information and increase awareness of issues and events of interest to people with disabilities in rural areas.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/15 to 08/31/16
Outputs
Target Audience:Tennessee AgrAbility Project target audiences include: farmers and homeowners with disabilities, and their family members; agricultural, medical, rehabilitation professionals; veterans organizations; and disabilities services organizations. Delivery formats include on-site assessments and assistance; presentations at meetings, workshops and agricultural field days; online and print resources. Changes/Problems:Key Personnel: One personnel change occurred in Year 3 as the result of a retirement from our nonprofit partner. A resumes for the new staff is included in this funding request. Ms. Paula Jones, a Rehabilitation Counselor at East Tennessee Technology Access Center (ETTAC), replaces Dr. Lois Symington on the Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff. Ms. Jones has served ETTAC customers since 2002 and has worked with TAP staff as needed. Dr. Symington retired after serving ETTAC for 28 years. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Five Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff and one farmer veteran advocate participated in the 2016 AgrAbility National Training Workshop to increase capacity to serve needs of Tennesseans. Tennessee AgrAbility Project expanded staff development activities through 18 webinars focusing on assistive technology (AT), educational topics regarding farm safety and disability issues. One Tennessee AgrAbility Project participated in the Progressive Agriculture Safety Day Training to increase farm safety competnecies for youth education and prevention of secondary injuries. Tennessee AgrAbility Project conducted 5 meetings in quarters 2 and 3 for the Tennessee Department of Veterans Service Officer Training in-services, with 125 in attendance. The training introduced AgrAbility and the Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC) to those who work with veterans across the state. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Activities and accomplishments are reported through AgrAbility Project events, AgrAbility eNotes and other outets. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objectives of the 2013-2017 Tennessee AgrAbility Project for Year 4 are ongoing efforts of programs begun in previous years. New activities during this project period include developing programs and a peer support network for farmer veterans with disabilities. Some specific activities remaining in Year 4 include: Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff will present additional training sessions to the Veteran Service Officers with the TN Department of Veteran Services in June, and for new VSOs during future staff workshops. Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff will work with Tennessee Department of Agriculture and UT Center for Profitable Agriculture to increase adoption of the Farmer Veteran Coalition "Homegrown by Heroes" marketing initiative and logo that allows consumers to identify and support veteran-farmers.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Priority Area 1: Education Tennessee AgrAbility Project (TAP) conducted 5 meetings in quarters 2 and 3 to the Tennessee Department of Veterans Service Officer Training in-services, with 125 in attendance. The training introduced AgrAbility and the Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC) to those who work with veterans across the state. TAP provided direct education for farmers, farm workers and their families through 26 agriculture field day, conferences, expos, winter ag meetings, Farm Bureau meetings and state and national conferences. Tennessee AgrAbility expanded staff development activities through 18 webinars focusing on assistive technology (AT), educational topics regarding farm safety and disability issues. TAP attended the National AgrAbility Training Workshop and Progressive Agriculture Safety Day Training. Three youth safety events were attended by TAP demonstrating helmet safety. A total of 966 youth were in attendance. 40 disability awareness classes conducted by TAP to middle and high school students at the Calloway Co. KY Safety Days and 50 disability classes conducted by TAP at 11 Progressive Agricultural Safety Days and 4-H Camps with 1,575 elementary and middle school students in attendance. TAP educated 700 high school students on Agriculture and AgrAbility at 1 ag career day. TAP co-hosted the 2015 Young Farmer and Rancher Summer Conference with Progressive Agriculture Safety Day, TN Farm Bureau and KY Department of Agriculture Farm and Home Safety Program. TAP emphasized the prevalence of arthritis and increased potential for secondary injuries among the agricultural community through 27 Walk with Ease classes and 16 participants. TAP increased awareness of arthritis and AgrAbility at the National American Occupational Therapy Association meeting in Nashville attended by 750 Occupational Therapists. TAP co-hosted a Regional Workshop: Arthritis, AgrAbility, and Rural Health Conference and the National Arthritis Conference,and TAP staff presented AgrAbility and organized the tours and speakers. Topics included arthritis, agriculture, assistive technology; working with older farmers; Occupational Therapist perspectives; small farm training for beginner farmers at Tennessee State University and the New Farmer Academy; horticulture therapy and accessible gardening. Toured the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture ongoing research at the UT Vet School, such as horse rehab, hydrotherapy, cow prosthesis, small and large animals; learned about protecting athletes' joints with new natural and synthetic turf at the UT Turfgrass Research facility; and toured UT Gardens horticulture therapy and accessible gardening programs. Finished the conference with farmer veterans presentations about 'Growing Warriors' and 'A Warrior's Garden.' TAP hosted the Tennessee's first Older Farmer Farm Safety and Health Dinner Theatre in Sullivan County with Dr. Deborah Reed and the University of Kentucky Nursing Department. Using realistic farm stories, discussions on farm safety were encouraged and an understanding on how aging affects your health and safety on the farm were gained. Dr. Reed will publish evaluation results when the project is completed. More theatres and education are planned for Year 4. TAP partnered with Charley Jordan, the first Tennessee farmer certified to use the Homegrown by Heroes label, to host the first Farmer Veteran Workshop in Tennessee. 60 registered and the workshop was attended by 95 veterans that want to farm.Veterans learned about UT-TSU Extension and USDA programs, as well as other resources available for beginning farmers in Tennessee. Similar workshops are being planned in Year 4. Priority Area 2: Networking TAP started recruiting individuals for their community-based peer support group to promote AgrAbility and expand efforts in working with veterans who desire an agricultural occupation. This support group will work with the TAP on their upcoming 4 year grant proposal as well as recruit and promote AgrAbility. TAP obtained more than $10,000 in assistance and donated products for AgrAbility customers. Funds were obtained from donations (monetary and equipment); sponsorships and fundraisers. Funds are used to provide grants/loans to AgrAbility customers, based upon financial need. Assistive technology purchases included tractor steps with handrails, mobility vehicle tires, tractor back up camera and Bump-and-Go Gates. TAP continue to build and strengthen relationships with agricultural and health organizations, disability service providers that can benefit AgrAbility customers and their families. 20 organizations were approached by TAP, including Office on Aging, TN Commission on Aging and Disability, East Tennessee Military Affairs Council and Disabled American Veterans. Tennessee AgrAbility is reaching out to Veterans Administration and other veteran services organizations, and FVC to help support a Tennessee FVC chapter as an education forum and for farmer veterans to use the Homegrown by Heroes marketing tools. Charley Jordan is working to start a TN State Chapter of the FVC. The Tennessee State University Department of Occupational Therapy presented a poster on AgrAbility at the National Occupational Therapy Association Conference. Equipment vendors who partner with AgrAbility provided samples to use in the presentation. Priority Area 3: Assistance In Year 3, 37 new AgrAbility customers (individuals and their families) received direct and in-direct assistance from TAP including 20 on-farm assessments. Assistance included reviews of the farm worksites and residence, individuals' disabilities and accessibility needs and development of plans to make improvements for increased independence and productivity. Based on these plans, AgrAbility works with individuals and organizations in communities to implement needed modifications and assistive technologies, some of which are identified above in the networking section of this report. The second Tennessee New Farmer Academy was conducted by TAP partner Tennessee State University Cooperative Extension Program. This six-month certificate program is designed for those with an interest in becoming agricultural entrepreneurs. The program focuses on teaching the concepts, providing the information and facilitating the hands-on experience needed to build solid, visible and successful agricultural businesses. There were 17 participants, including 5 veterans and 3 individuals with disabilities. Priority Area 4: Marketing Marketing of AgrAbility includes a variety of methods to inform the public in general and farmers, agricultural professionals and health professionals about the Tennessee AgrAbility Project. Marketing methods include exhibits at agricultural field days, presentations to members of agricultural organizations, presentations to gathering of agricultural and health professionals, and online methods such as the Tennessee AgrAbility Project website, social media (Facebook), e-mail and other electronic communications means.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/14 to 08/31/15
Outputs
Target Audience: Tennessee AgrAbility Project target audiences include: farmers and homeowners with disabilities, and their family members; agricultural, medical, rehabilitation professionals; veterans organizations; and disabilities services organizations. Changes/Problems: Key Personnel: Two personnel changes are the result of personnel leaving their universities since hte last progress report: Ms. Eileen Legault joined UT Extension in 2014 as the Extension Area Specialist to conduct AgrAbility Project activities in East Tennessee, filling the position previously held by Mr. Alan Filyaw. Ms. Cathleen St. Dennis, Occupational Therapist faculty at Tennessee State University, will introduce agricultural occupations and agricultural employment practical experiences to students in the Occupation Therapy program at Tennessee State University. This role was previously filled by Mr. Stephen Penick. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff participate in 28 webinars conducted by the National AgrAbility Project, and three staff participated in the 2015 AgrAbility National Trianing Workshop in order to increase capacity to serve needs of individuals with disabilities. One staff member participated in the Farmer Veterans Coalition Stakeholders Conference in Des Moines, IA in November, 2014 to explore opportunities for better serving needs of veterans in Tennessee. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results and successes of the Tennessee AgrAbility project are incorporated into exhibits, presentations, websites and other marketing materials in order to describe AgrAbility programs and activities and illustrate concepts that can be adopted by individuals and organizations. Additionally, outcomes and impacts are reported through the University of Tennessee Extension reporting systems. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Some specific activities remaining in Year 2 include: Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff will present training sessions to the Veteran Service Officers with the TN Department of Veteran Services in June, and for new VSOs during future staff workshops. Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff will meet with Tennessee Department of Agriculture and UT Center for Profitable Agriculture to explore adoption of the Farmer Veteran Coalition "Homegrown by Heroes" marketing initiative and logo that allows consumers to proudly support veteran-farmers and TAS is working on getting it displayed along with "Pick TN Products." Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff is assisting with planning activities for and will participate in the Arthritis, AgrAbility and Rural Health Regional Workshop in Knoxville, August 24-27. Objectives of the 2013-2017 Tennessee AgrAbility Project for Years 3 and 4 are ongoing efforts of programs begun in previous years. New activities during this project period include developing programs and a peer support network for farmer veterans with disabilities. Table 1 presents the activities and timeline for completion for Year 3 of this project.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Priority Area 1: Education Tennessee AgrAbility Staff (UT, TSU and ETTAC) provided direct disability awareness and AgrAbility Project education for farmers, farm workers and their families through 18 agricultural field days and conferences, expos and health fairs; four Extension winter ag meetings; one home and garden show; three leadership meetings and two radio programs. Two 6-week Walk with Ease Arthritis courses with ten participants each were conducted by Tennessee AgrAbility staff. Lessons included how to manage arthritis pain through proper stretching and walking habits. Six youth safety events were attended by Tennessee AgrAbility Staff demonstrating helmet safety. A total of two thousand (2000) youth were in attendance. Thirty (30) disability awareness classes conducted by Murray State University OHSA students under the direction of Tennessee AgrAbility staff with five hundred and ten (510) middle and high school students in attendance. Over twenty-two (22) disability awareness classes conducted by TAS at five (5) Progressive Agriculture Foundation Safety Day Camps with over one thousand (1000) elementary and middle school students in attendance. Tennessee AgrAbility staff is working hard to develop relationships with veterans' organizations and assist farmer veterans with disabilities. Tennessee AgrAbility staff (TAS) has been in contact with the Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), an organization that works with veterans in the food and farming community in 47 states. A Tennessee Veteran/agriculture producer associated with FVC agreed to work with Tennessee AgrAbility in their quest to work with Tennessee Veterans. TAS referred three (3) farmers to register with FVC. FVC has chapters in three states now and hopes to get more chapters nationwide to reach more veterans who want to farm. Tennessee AgrAbility participated in the FVC National Stakeholder Conference in Des Moines, IA, and participated in two sessions at the National AgrAbility Conference on working with veterans with disabilities. Tennessee AgrAbility staff participated in 28 professional development webinars and the AgrAbility Project National Training Workshop in order to increase capacity to better serve the needs of individuals with disabilities. Priority Area 2: Networking Networking with other agencies, organizations and individuals extends the reach and capacity of AgrAbility through direct and in-kind financial and technical assistance. Tennessee AgrAbility staff obtained more than $15,000 in assistance and donated products for AgrAbility customers thus far in Year 2. Impacts in 2014 include the installation of hand controls for a Case IH JX 75 tractor; extra step with hand rail for 4020 John Deere and mud grip tires for golf cart. Two projects are pending at this time with an estimate of $10,000 in assistive technology devices. Tennessee AgrAbility networked with area agriculture businesses to organize a 5K Run to increase disability awareness and assist Tennessee Farmers with disabilities. Thirty-seven (37) runners participated in the event that had $3,750 in sponsorship and raised $800 for Tennessee farmers with disabilities. Priority Area 3: Assistance Thus far in Year 2, 31 new AgrAbility Project customers (individuals and their families) received direct and indirect assistance from AgrAbility staff including 17 on-farm assessments by AgrAbility staff. Assistance included reviews of the farm worksites and residence, individuals' disabilities and accessibility needs, and development of plans to make improvements for increased independence and productivity. Based on these plans, AgrAbility works with individuals and organizations in communities to implement needed modifications and assistive technologies, some of which are identified above in the networking section of this report. The Tennessee New Farmer Academy, conducted by TSU Cooperative Extension, is a six-month certificate program designed for those with an interest in becoming agricultural entrepreneurs. Ideal candidates for this program include those who are new to agriculture, those who wish to transition into agriculture from another field such as military service or private sector work, or those who are looking for a post-retirement opportunity. The program focuses on teaching the concepts, providing the information, and facilitating the hands-on experience needed to build solid, viable, and successful agricultural businesses. Participants in the program include four veterans in 2015, and one veteran and one individual with disabilities in 2014. Priority Area 4: Marketing Marketing of AgrAbility includes a variety of methods to inform the public in general, and farmers, agricultural professionals and health professionals about the Tennessee AgrAbility Project. Marketing methods include exhibits at agricultural field days, presentations to members of agricultural organizations, presentations to gatherings of agricultural and health professionals, and online methods such as the Tennessee AgrAbility Project website, social media (Facebook), e-mail and other electronic communications means. Selected quotes from Tennessee AgrAbility Project customers describe some of the impacts of the program: Quote from Walk with Ease Arthritis Class participant: "This week I was able to work in the flower bed, yard and increase my walking distance without as much pain as normal. I believe it is all due to this class." Quote from Chester County Ag Producer: "Since retiring from Extension my health has been deteriorating. My goal was to work my cattle and horses but my health has not allowed me to do what I planned. Working the brakes and clutch was difficult but with these hand controls, it is easier operating the tractor when putting out hay this fall and winter. Quote from Hardeman County Ag Producer: "Since I had my leg amputated the knee, my golf cart has been my lifesaver for mobility checking my produce crop, except when it was muddy. I was always getting stuck. If I had known I could mud grip tires on my golf cart, I would have already had them. I appreciate Co-op for their donation of the tires and coming to my farm to put them on at no expense."
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Progress 09/01/13 to 08/31/14
Outputs
Target Audience: Tennessee AgrAbility Project target audiences include: farmers and homeowners with disabilities, and their family members; agricultural, medical, rehabilitation professionals; veterans organizations; and disabilities services organizations. Changes/Problems: One of the Tennessee AgrAbility Project staff members resigned in late 2013, and that position is being filled as quickly as possible. This has reduced the capacity to deliver some programs in East Tennessee, but other staff have handled requests for information and contacted customers by phone, e-mail, etc. There is no change in the work plan as a result of this, however, as most objectives are continuous through the project period. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Tennessee AgrAbility staff continue to strengthen their relationships with agricultural and health organizations and disability service providers by presenting at six physical and occupational therapy staff meetings. Tennessee AgrAbility staff provided AgrAbility information statewide to the Department of Veterans Affairs. In-service training for Veterans organizations will be scheduled for 2014. This is a collaborative effort of the Tennessee AgrAbility Project, Kentucky AgrAbility Project and Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), an organization that works with veterans in the food and farming community in 47 states. A Tennessee farmer that is a Veteran associated with FVC has agreed to work with Tennessee AgrAbility in their quest to serve the needs of Tennessee Veterans. Marketing of AgrAbility includes a variety of methods to inform the public in general, and farmers, agricultural professionals and health professionals about the Tennessee AgrAbility Project. Marketing methods include exhibits at agricultural field days, presentations to members of agricultural organizations, presentations to gatherings of agricultural and health professionals, and online methods such as the Tennessee AgrAbility Project website, social media (Facebook), e-mail and other electronic communications means. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results and successes of the Tennessee AgrAbility project are incorporated into exhibits, presentations, websites and other marketing materials in order to describe AgrAbility programs and activities and illustrate concepts that can be adopted by individuals and organizations. Additionally, outcomes and impacts are reported through the University of Tennessee Extension reporting systems. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Most objectives of the 2013-2017 Tennessee AgrAbility Project are ongoing efforts of programs begun in previous years. New activities during this project include developing programs for veterans that are farmers, and a peer support network.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Priority Area 1: Education Tennessee AgrAbility staff provided direct education for farmers, farm workers and their families through nine agriculture field days; five winter agricultural producers’ meetings and two home and garden shows. Tennessee AgrAbility staff increased arthritis awareness at five agriculture producer meetings and gave instructions on proper stretching methods to ease arthritis pain. Two 6-week Walk with Ease arthritis courses was conducted by Tennessee AgrAbility staff. Lessons included how to manage arthritis pain through proper stretching and walking habits. Tennessee AgrAbility staff provided AgrAbility information statewide to the Department of Veterans Affairs. In-service training for Veterans organizations will be scheduled for 2014. This is a collaborative effort of the Tennessee AgrAbility Project, Kentucky AgrAbility Project and Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), an organization that works with veterans in the food and farming community in 47 states. A Tennessee farmer that is a Veteran associated with FVC has agreed to work with Tennessee AgrAbility in their quest to serve the needs of Tennessee Veterans. Priority Area 2: Networking Tennessee AgrAbility staff continue to strengthen their relationships with agricultural and health organizations and disability service providers by presenting at six physical and occupational therapy staff meetings. Tennessee AgrAbility staff obtained more than $10,000.00 in assistance and donated products for AgrAbility customers. Impacts in 2013-2014 include the adoption of assistive technologies, such as installation of improved steps to reduce risks of injuries when getting on and off tractors; provided strategies for controlling arthritis pain; and provided funding to replace battery charger for an off-road vehicle that is used on the farm. Priority Area 3: Assistance With the assistance of the Tennessee State University Occupational Therapy faculty, students of three university Occupational Therapy / Physical Therapy programs received training on agriculture as an occupation and the impacts of disabilities on farm workers and their family members. Twenty-four individuals and their families received direct and indirect assistance from AgrAbility staff, including 18 on-farm assessments by AgrAbility staff. Plans for these individuals and their families are in varying stages of development and implementation. Tennessee AgrAbility staff met with University of Kentucky Extension staff involved with the Growing Warriors Project and scheduled a planning meeting in 2014 to develop and implement a program for veterans in collaboration with the Farmer Veteran Coalition. Priority Area 4: Marketing Marketing of AgrAbility includes a variety of methods to inform the public in general, and farmers, agricultural professionals and health professionals about the Tennessee AgrAbility Project. Marketing methods include exhibits at agricultural field days, presentations to members of agricultural organizations, presentations to gatherings of agricultural and health professionals, and online methods such as the Tennessee AgrAbility Project website, social media (Facebook), e-mail and other electronic communications means.
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