11/27/2023
Hello,
I am reaching out because I think you can help. Three years ago, I joined the Board of Directors of A Farm Less Ordinary (“AFLO”), a Loudon-based non-profit that works with adults in the ID/DD area. ID/DD means “intellectual disabilities/developmental disabilities” and is the term describing situations in which intellectual disability and other disabilities are present. Examples of these disabilities include autism, behavior disorders, brain injury, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, intellectual disability, and spina bifida.
Most notably, there is a significant number of adults with ID/DD in our community and they struggle to find meaningful work and activity that helps them gain confidence that they are vital to our communities. Some have to overcome the inability to even shake hands with others.
Recognizing that all people have inherent value and the desire to learn and excel, AFLO provides job and skill training through the operation of two farms in Loudoun County. AFLO teaches people to GROW FOOD and to prepare food, and to sell food. AFLO provides a vehicle for those in the ID/DD community to learn life skills and to graduate to more productive lives. For some of the growers, making change at a farmers’ market when selling beans is a major accomplishment.
This past year, AFLO employed 30 growers with ID/DD on the farms. However, the farms and AFLO’s operations still need the support of our larger community. This is why I am writing.
November 28th is . I am asking your help so that AFLO can continue to change lives. I am asking you to go to AFLO’s website here:
https://www.afarmlessordinary.org Learn about the organization.
On Tuesday, I am asking you to sponsor a grower. I don’t care if it’s $10/month, $25/month, $50/month, or $100/month. I am just asking for your participation. Help me help those in the ID/DD community realize their potential and underscore their value as humans and participants in our community.
Go here to give:
https://afarmlessordinary.harnessgiving.org/campaigns/12871
If you can’t give monthly, I would appreciate some gift. No gift is too small. Every dollar raised becomes a paycheck for someone with an intellectual or developmental disability. $25/month employs a grower for a week. Help me help them. Together we can change lives.
If you don’t want to wait until Tuesday, click on the link NOW.
I thank you in advance for recognizing the value of our disabled neighbors and for joining me in the effort to enhance their lives.
Respectfully,
Tom Plofchan
