Down on the Farm and Loving It!

Two days after tending to animals and nurturing vegetable plants at Navarro Farm in Frankfort, a group from St. Coletta’s of Illinois’ adult day program was eager to see if their efforts had paid off.

“Look,” said Scott, pointing to the raised garden beds where the group planted pepper, basil and tomato plants in May. “We have a baby pepper already!”

“Here’s another,” added Billy, spotting a second, third and fourth tiny pepper sprouting from the soil.

“This is a big accomplishment,” said Debbie Macenas, Activity/Production Assistant at St. Coletta’s. “This officially makes us farmers!”

St. Coletta’s of Illinois, a nonprofit organization based in Tinley Park, provides educational, vocational and residential services to individuals with developmental disabilities. Through person-centered support, the organization promotes independence, dignity and community inclusion. Partnering with community organizations like Navarro Farm is one way St. Coletta’s brings those values to life.

Twice a week, Macenas drives a group of five individuals to the 5-acre farm to feed the pigs and goats, clean the animal pens and tend to two raised garden beds.  The farm was established in 2021 by the Navarro family, inspired by their son who has Down syndrome, as a way to provide individuals with special needs the opportunity to experience farm life. Today, the farm fosters inclusion, education and personal growth through hands-on agricultural experiences in a welcoming and supportive environment.

To stay organized and ensure each visit is productive, Macenas and the group work from a checklist, crossing off tasks like watering, weeding and feeding the animals as they complete them. The routine not only builds responsibility and structure but also gives participants a clear sense of progress and achievement.

The group is participating in a six-week rotation at the farm. After completing their session, they will help train a new group of five participants—passing on their knowledge and giving even more individuals the opportunity to experience farm life and the joy of hands-on learning.

Under Macenas’ guidance, the group cares for the crops and livestock, gaining firsthand experience with gardening and animal care. It’s not just about planting seeds and shoveling straw—it’s about growing confidence, independence and friendships.

Macenas discovered Navarro Farm while exploring new enrichment activities for St. Coletta’s adult participants. Inspired by the farm’s inclusive mission, she quickly saw the potential for a meaningful partnership.

“Working at the farm gives our participants more than just a fun outing—it’s helping them build confidence, develop social and teamwork skills and learn about where food comes from,” Macenas said. “The physical activity, fresh air and connection with nature all contribute to their overall well-being.”

Gardening and farm work are powerful tools for personal development. Participants not only learn practical skills, but also experience a deep sense of accomplishment, higher self-esteem and a stronger connection to the food they help grow. Their weekly visits foster independence and create a supportive environment for social interaction.

St. Coletta’s and Navarro Farm share a common mission: to empower individuals with developmental disabilities through inclusive, community-based experiences. Their partnership is a testament to what’s possible when organizations come together to create opportunities rooted in compassion, learning and growth.

 “It’s really a neat thing,” said Macenas. “It not only builds teamwork but gives everyone a sense of empowerment—and that sense of purpose stays with them long after we leave the farm.”

“I love everything about the farm,” said Deareo as she filled the animals’ water dishes while her teammates mucked the stalls and fed the pigs. “I never did anything like this before.”