Removing barriers: AgrAbility marks 30 years of impact

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — AgrAbility has helped farmers get the resources they need to keep farming for 30 years.

To celebrate, the “AgrAbility: 30 Years of Impact” report was created. It’s estimated that AgrAbility has provided direct, on-site services to more than 13,600 individuals.

A typical site visit involves an AgrAbility staff member touring the client’s operation to identify barriers to productivity and to discuss potential solutions. Ongoing services include additional visits, phone follow-up and referrals to other assisting organizations.

Services are available for all types of abilities and disabilities, from traumatic accident injuries to arthritis.

“It’s often hard for farmers and ranchers to open up to strangers,” said Karin Rasmussen of Kansas AgrAbility Project.

“If I can provide even one small suggestion or tool to make the task easier or possible, then I might see a small smile or receive a strong handshake as I walk out the door. That makes it worth it. That’s why I’m here.”

AgrAbility has grown from eight demonstration projects in 1991 to 21 funded projects today.

During the past three decades, the assistive technologies available to agricultural workers have become more advanced and widespread.

“Human connections are what makes AgrAbility special,” said Joetta White of Tennessee AgrAbility Project. “When farmers have a personal challenge, we don’t want them to have to give up their lifestyle and what they love to do.”

Learn more at www.agrability.org.