Here's What's Happening at East Polk Rotary

Last week East Polk Rotary hosted Eric Albrecht, the Vocational Director of The Homestead and its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.  The Homestead was opened in 1994 and offers employment and housing to 24 autistic adults.  The adults, supervised by Homestead staffers, perform functions related to the horticulture of dozens of fruits and vegetables on a four-acre parcel.  Eric said the Homestead has 177 acres in total and rents some out for traditional farming.  The Homestead sells a CSA "share" to local residents during the growing season and will also offer a double share.  Then, once a week, the share owners can pick up their produce either from The Homestead or one of the drop off locations around the metro. 

All of the produce is grown using chemical-free methods and is all picked as close to the delivery/pick up date as possible.  They even grown greens year-round in their greenhouse and sell it through Campbells and Gateway Market.  The service to autistic individuals spans a three-pronged approach.  Some is campus-based, some is community-based and some is clinic-based.  All together, The Homestead serves over 250 autistic adults and youth.  Thanks to Eric for an informative and educational presentation.

Tomorrow, Norma Bettis is our Sgt. at Arms and Gary Palmer is the Rotarian of the Day.  We'll see everyone the AM!