At Dutton Farm, we believe that dignity and respect are fundamental values that must guide our mission and practices. Every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves to be treated with honor and recognition of their inherent worth. By fostering an environment that prioritizes dignity and respect, we not only uplift the individuals we serve but also challenge societal perceptions and biases about disability.
This commitment enriches our team, encouraging collaboration and empathy, and ultimately creates a more inclusive community where everyone can thrive. In a world that often marginalizes those with disabilities, it is crucial for us to stand as advocates for their rights and potential, demonstrating that respect is the foundation upon which we can build a more equitable society for all.
Our work reflects this core value in various meaningful ways. Most notably, we take a person-centered approach in our services, prioritizing ongoing training to foster a culture of understanding and empowerment.
We also celebrate the unique strengths and contributions of each individual through initiatives like our Farmer of the Month program, showcasing the work of our artists, and sharing personal stories that highlight their achievements.
Additionally, we work diligently behind the scenes to create platforms where participants’ voices can be heard. Above all, we maintain high standards across all our program areas and actively pursue opportunities within the community that promote belonging and inclusion.
As we continue to uphold our commitment to empowering adults with disabilities to live with purpose, inclusion and dignity, I extend a heartfelt thank you to each person who supports us as we continue to make incredible strides in accomplishing our mission.
Jenny Brown
CEO
Dutton Farm
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Honoring Lori Randolph: 12 Years of Dedicated Service
We extend our deepest gratitude to Lori Randolph for her 12 years of incredible service on the Dutton Farm Board of Directors. Her commitment to our mission has helped shape Dutton Farm into the thriving, inclusive community it is today.
Lori’s connection to Dutton Farm is deeply personal—her daughter has been a participant since our early days. Having parents of individuals with disabilities on our board is invaluable. Their lived experiences provide insight into the challenges and aspirations of individuals with disabilities, helping us make informed, meaningful decisions that drive real change. Their voices strengthen our mission of empowering adults with disabilities.
We had the honor of presenting Lori with a special thank-you gift during one of the Zumba classes she teaches at Dutton Farm—a beautiful photo of our participants holding up letters spelling the words Purpose, Inclusion, and Dignity, the foundation of our mission. Though she is stepping down from the board, Lori’s remains committed to Dutton Farm. She will continue volunteering on the farm, teaching Zumba, and serving on committees for our Driving Fore Dutton and High Hopes Gala events, further supporting our mission.
Lori, your passion, leadership, and advocacy have left an incredible impact. Thank you for being a true champion of our cause—we are so grateful for you! |
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Pictured: Dutton Farm Participant Mia Wise |
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We are thrilled to announce that Mia has been selected as our Artist of the month in February! Mia’s exceptional artistic ability shines through her work, particularly in her use of color and elements of abstract design to express herself. Her projects are filled with vibrant hues that evoke feelings and capture moments in a way only she can. Her attention to detail is remarkable, and it's clear in every piece that Mia pours her heart and soul into her art.
But Mia's talents go beyond just her artistic creations. Her kindness and willingness to help others are evident in her approach to teamwork. Mia is always ready to lend a hand, offering support and encouragement to those around her. Whether it’s offering advice on a new technique or just being a positive presence, she fosters an environment of collaboration and mutual growth. We are incredibly proud to celebrate Mia as our Artist of the. Month and look forward to seeing all the amazing things she will continue to accomplish! |
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Pictured: Sara Hustek and Dutton Farm Macomb Lead Tyler Maynard |
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Meet Dutton Farm's Macomb Site Lead: Tyler Maynard
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Tyler, Lead Direct Support Professional at Dutton Farm’s Macomb County location. Although Tyler has been with Dutton Farm for just under a year, his impact has already been immeasurable. He began his journey at the Oakland County campus before transitioning to the Macomb location, where his dedication and work ethic have truly stood out. Tyler is responsible for leading the day-to-day curriculum and community outings at Macomb, as well as handling attendance, ratio, and other administrative tasks.
Tyler’s compassion is evident in everything he does, and it’s clear he loves what he does by the way he treats and cares for our participants. Jenny Brown, Dutton Farm’s CEO, describes Tyler as “mission-aligned with incredible integrity.” He consistently goes above and beyond with every task, approaching each responsibility with excellence. Tyler is always willing to learn something new and take on challenges with a positive attitude. We are thrilled to have him on our team and are excited for you to get to know him better. Keep reading to learn more about the person who is making such a positive impact at Dutton Farm!
What are your hobbies? My hobbies include storm chasing, snowboarding, hiking and playing video games.
Greatest possession? Probably my Bible, it has been a tool for my performance both in my personal and professional life.
Greatest accomplishment? Becoming the youth pastor of my church, it was 7 years in the making and I had to really take self-inventory on myself to prepare myself for that and I’m incredibly thankful to God and proud of myself to allow myself to grow (even if it hurt my pride a little bit). Bucket list? Get married to my fiancée, see a photogenic tornado, being able to travel to different churches and preach. Favorite holiday? 4th of July Best childhood memory? The first time I went snowboarding, I had a lot of confidence struggles in my childhood and finding that outlet for all the things I was dealing with was incredibly cathartic.
What makes you unique? The ability to be always wanting to learn, the willingness to try anything once.
Hero? My old youth pastor, Pastor Chris Rea. He is the one who helped me discover the call of ministry of my life.
Favorite travel memory? Definitely snowboarding out in Utah, you never realize how small you are until you are standing atop a 11,000 foot mountain.
Makes you smile? Seeing God use me for His Kingdom, my fiancée, and the friends I’ve made along this journey.
Biggest risk?
I'm a bit of a risk taker so I really had to think about that lol. One that stands out was during my time snowboarding out in Utah, I got up via tram to the top of a mountain (11,000 feet) and a snowstorm rolled over the peak, I nearly got stuck up there in 50mph winds and -20 wind chill. I began descending immediately and nearly got overtaken by the storm. Good times lol! |
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Since 2020, PNC has played a significant role in supporting the growth and development of Dutton Farm’s programming. With their generous funding, sponsorship, and continued collaboration, we’ve been able to expand our services, provide new opportunities for the individuals we serve, and strengthen our presence within the community.
One of the most significant contributions from PNC has been their support of our Community Integration (CI) program. Transportation is often a barrier for adults with disabilities to access work, school, and other community-based activities. Thanks to PNC's $75,000 grant, $50,000 for transportation and $25,000 for general operating, we’ve been able to enhance our transportation support by purchasing a wheelchair accessible bus, allowing our participants to access their community to enjoy recreational activities, volunteer, and support local businesses by engaging in consumerism. This improvement has been critical in helping our participants gain the independence they need to thrive.
PNC has also been instrumental in helping our clients build vital financial education awareness and skills. Understanding money management is essential for independence, and PNC’s financial support helped fund Dutton Farm’s workshops and assessments, empowering our participants to increase their financial knowledge. This initiative has been a game-changer for many individuals, opening doors to increased autonomy and self-sufficiency.
Additionally, PNC has been a strong proponent of Dutton Farm, purchasing our gifts, sharing our story, and raising awareness through their annual Disability Mentoring Day. PNC has also been actively involved in our community events, town halls, and the High Hopes Gala. In return, they’ve invited Dutton Farm to participate in PNC events, creating valuable opportunities for growth and collaboration.
The relationship between Dutton Farm and PNC is a testament to the power of collaboration between organizations that are passionate about making a difference. PNC’s dedication to supporting not only their customers but also the communities they serve aligns seamlessly with our mission to improve the lives of adults with disabilities. Through their financial support, expertise, and active engagement, PNC continues to play a vital role in the success of our programs and the individuals we support.
“Dutton Farm provides a broad range of essential services in Oakland and Macomb Counties. We are proud to support the work they do in providing opportunities for all people in the region,” said Anne Harpe, PNC community development officer. |
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Pictured: Hunchfree Employee Volunteers and Dutton Farm Participants
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Hunchfree
This quarter, we are grateful to Hunchfree for their invaluable support in helping bring our Art Without Limits art studio to life. Their generous contributions of time, effort, and materials have made a lasting impact on Dutton Farm and the individuals we serve.
The Hunchfree team dedicated their time to assembling furniture and laying carpet squares, transforming an empty room into a welcoming and functional space for our participants to engage in creative activities. Their hard work and meticulous attention to detail have created an environment that truly supports the creative journey of everyone who walks through the door.
Besides their hands-on efforts, Hunchfree also generously donated a variety of art supplies to help launch Art Without Limits. These materials will play a key role in fostering self-expression and enabling our artists to bring their unique ideas to life. Thanks to Hunchfree’s support, our studio is now equipped with many of the tools needed to inspire creativity and exploration.
We are incredibly thankful for the thoughtful words shared by Hunchfree’s team about their volunteer experience:
“Volunteering at Dutton Farm was an incredibly rewarding experience. We witnessed firsthand the positive impact the organization has on its participants and were inspired by the passion and dedication of the staff, who have created a nurturing and empowering environment,” said Creative Director Anna Monroe. “Our team was excited to support their creative program—an effort that is very close to our hearts. Knowing that their new art space and donated materials will spark joy and self-expression has made this experience even more meaningful. Everyone deserves a place where they feel accepted, valued, and free to learn and grow. Dutton Farm has created such a space, and we are honored to have played a small part in their incredible mission.”
These heartfelt reflections perfectly capture the essence of Art Without Limits—a space where individuals with developmental disabilities can explore their creativity and express themselves in a fully supportive and inclusive environment.
Thank you, Hunchfree, for your tremendous generosity and for playing such a crucial role in making this art studio a reality. Your contributions will continue to inspire and empower our participants for years to come!
If you’re interested in learning more about how your organization can help, please reach out to kim@duttonfarm.org. |
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A.A. Van Elslander Foundation
At Dutton Farm, our mission to empower individuals with developmental disabilities through meaningful programs and opportunities is made possible by the generosity of partners who share in our vision. One such partner that has been instrumental in the growth of our organization is the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation.
Over the past three years, the foundation’s support has been pivotal in driving key developments at Dutton Farm, enabling us to broaden our services and enhance our impact on participants’ lives.
In 2022, the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation’s support enabled us to expand our Community Involvement program. This initiative provides individuals with developmental disabilities the opportunity to engage with their community in meaningful ways, giving our participants the chance to feel valued and included. With the foundation’s funding, we were able to offer more participants these opportunities to feel included in their community, further promoting dignity and independence.
The following year, in 2023, the foundation’s continued support allowed Dutton Farm to grow our Adult Education and Workforce Readiness program. This program is crucial in preparing individuals for success in the workforce, providing them with the skills, training, and resources necessary to gain and maintain employment. With a focus on job readiness, we have seen remarkable improvements in the lives of those who participated. Additionally, the foundation’s generosity enabled us to offer some of our most vulnerable job seekers wraparound services. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals not only have the skills to secure a job but also the support they need to thrive in their new positions.
In 2024, thanks to the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation, Dutton Farm made another significant leap forward. With their funding, we were able to hire a Job Developer—someone dedicated to working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities to help them navigate the job market. This addition to our team has had a direct and positive impact on the success of our participants, ensuring they receive the personalized attention and assistance necessary for their growth.
The foundation will also play a key role in helping us expand our services into Macomb County. With their support, we will be able to make critical infrastructure improvements, including the installation of a safe driveway and a designated drop-off and pickup area. These changes will greatly improve safety and accessibility for our program participants, further ensuring that everyone who wishes to engage with our services can do so with ease and confidence.
The support of the A.A. Van Elslander Foundation has not only facilitated the growth of Dutton Farm but has also made a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Thanks to their generosity, our participants are more equipped to lead fulfilling lives, gain meaningful employment, and engage fully in their communities. |
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"To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake, it is necessary to stand out in the cold". — Unkown As we wrap up another incredible season at Dutton Farm, we’re excited to share the diverse activities that have brought joy, growth, and connection to our participants over the last few months. From creative classes to unforgettable visits, this quarter has been full of fun, learning, and new experiences for everyone involved! Sign Language Class: Communicating Through Hands and Hearts
One of the highlights of the past few months was our engaging Sign Language class, where participants had the opportunity to learn a valuable new skill. Led by a wonderful volunteer instructor, the class fostered communication and connection, making it easier for everyone to express themselves in a new way. The joy of learning together in this supportive environment was evident as participants worked hard and cheered each other on!
A Visit from Go Team Therapy Dogs: A Pawsitive Experience
We were thrilled to welcome a group of therapy dogs from Go Team to Dutton Farm, bringing comfort, joy, and plenty of tail wags. The visit provided our participants with an opportunity for relaxation, emotional support, and connection with these loving animals. It was a beautiful reminder of the therapeutic power of animals and how they can help reduce stress, promote happiness, and encourage social interaction. Cookie Decorating Class at Ssweet: Seasonal Snowflakes
Our cookie-making class was a Ssweet success, allowing participants to get creative in the with their decorating skills. Everyone worked together, sharing tips, and decorating their creations. The snowflake cookie theme worked perfectly for the season. They say no two snowflakes are alike, and that certainly proved true for the creative cookies decorated in this class! Zumba Class: Dancing to the Beat of Life
Zumba came to Dutton Farm, led by parent and former board member Lori Randolph. What fun and energy! Participants got moving, grooving, and shaking it to upbeat music in this exciting fitness session. Zumba isn’t just about exercise; it’s about having fun, boosting energy, and improving mood. The class was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to let loose, laugh, and get their bodies moving in a supportive and energetic environment.
A Visit from Craig the Juggler: A Circus of Fun
In December, we were delighted to have Craig the Juggler visit Dutton Farm, bringing his unique blend of circus skills and humor to entertain and inspire our participants. Craig's performance had everyone on the edge of their seats, laughing, clapping. His visit sparked creativity and joy, leaving everyone with big smiles and newfound juggling aspirations! Our First Christmas Party in the New Barn: A Celebration to Remember
The holiday season kicked off with our very first Christmas party in the beautiful new barn, which was filled to the brim with holiday cheer. Families gathered for an afternoon of festivities, with delicious pizza and our annual farmer awards. The excitement peaked when Santa Claus made a special appearance, meeting each and every participant while spreading the joy of Christmas. The well-attended event was a heartwarming reminder of the importance of community and togetherness, especially during the holiday season.
Macomb Location: Discovering a New Coffee Spot
In the spirit of exploration, our Macomb location recently discovered Dovetail, a charming new coffee shop that quickly became a favorite hangout spot. Participants and staff enjoyed sampling new beverages, chatting with one another, playing games, and soaking in the cozy atmosphere. This new routine has offered a fantastic opportunity for socializing and building relationships in the local community, all while supporting small businesses.
Yoga Class: Finding Inner Peace
Holy Yoga has become a regular feature at Dutton Farm, and the recent classes have helped participants relax, focus, and find their inner peace. Led by an experienced instructor, the sessions provide a safe, calm environment for everyone to stretch, breathe, and practice mindfulness. The gentle movement and relaxation techniques help reduce stress and promote overall well-being, making yoga a beloved activity for many. A Special Trip to the Movies: Moana 2
Our participants were treated to a special trip to the movies to see Moana 2. This outing was an opportunity for our community members to enjoy a fun experience together, with popcorn, laughter, and the magic of film. It’s moments like these that remind us how important it is to share experiences, create memories, and have fun as a group. A Visit from Dan the Creature Man: A Wild Encounter
Our final special event this quarter was a visit from Dan the Creature Man, who brought a fascinating collection of animals to Dutton Farm. Participants had the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of furry, feathered, and scaly creatures, learning about them and asking questions. The hands-on experience provided a unique educational opportunity and sparked curiosity, making for an unforgettable day. The Importance of New Experiences and Socialization
At Dutton Farm, we believe in the power of trying new things and the profound impact these experiences can have on our participants’ lives. Whether it’s learning a new skill, connecting with animals, or having fun in the community, each activity provides a valuable opportunity to try something new or refine an already learned skill. Thank you to all the participants, staff, and volunteers who make these moments possible. We look forward to many more exciting events and experiences in the upcoming months as we continue to grow and create a vibrant, connected community at Dutton Farm. |
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It has been an incredible year since Dutton Farm joined the Macomb County community, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received. Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege of meeting new participants, building meaningful relationships, and settling into our new facilities and property. It’s been a year full of growth, new beginnings, and exciting opportunities for the adults with disabilities that we serve.
Now, as we reflect on all that we’ve accomplished so far, we’re thrilled to embark on phase 2 of our journey. This next step involves further developing our building and property into a more functional and accommodating space. We are excited to expand our programs and services to welcome even more participants and continue providing opportunities for adults with disabilities to engage, grow, and thrive. These improvements will ensure that Dutton Farm remains a place where every individual can feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Throughout our expansion, we are deeply grateful for the support and commitment from Macomb County’s local legislators and officials. Their advocacy and commitment to fostering an inclusive community have made a tremendous impact on our ability to serve adults with disabilities in Macomb County. Together, we are working toward building a brighter future and creating a community where everyone, regardless of ability, can contribute, grow, and belong.
Phase 2 is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds as we expand our reach and create more opportunities for inclusion and empowerment. Thank you for being part of this amazing journey with us. Here’s to creating more inclusive communities and brighter futures together. |
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Thank You Donors! 2024 4th Quarter |
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Adam & Jennifer Stier Amy Chamberlain Anne Rainey
Anne Taglione Anthony Vinci Arts Beats & Eats Foundation
Avondale School District Barbara & Paul Makowski Barbara Osebold
Blayne Holland Bruce and Laura Kennedy Carmela Simon
Carolyn Moore Carrie Krebs Catherine Tulkangas
Cathy Burnham Cathy Schmidt Cecelia Kruger
Charles Heth Chris Eads Christian Financial Credit Union
Christine Pasternak Clare Hopkins Clifford & Cindy Dettloff
Club General Motors Colleen Holmes Connie Shankin
Constellation Energy Craig Avery Crittenton Medical Staff, Inc
Cynthia Colonna D.F. Burnham David Mingle
David Tuomala Dawn Bodzick DebbieSenyk
Dewpoint Don & Kimberley Clapham Don Courtright
Donald Campion Donna Raphael Dwight Evans
Electrical Power & Design
Ellen Athens Ellen Hopkins
Fred Bartolomei Fred Meisner Gary & Mary Geisler
Gary and Janelle Denis GaspareRuggirello Geraldine Lee
Grant Downs Graydon MacClean Hana Lewis
Jack DiFranco Jackie Jager Jacob & Jessica Snow
Jake Feldman James & Catherine Courtney James & D'Ane Armaly
James & Michele Smither James Koenig |
| James Laudon James Rapelje Jane & Neal Mellesmoen Janet & Gasper Novara Janet Kilbride Janis Ripple Jason Brown Jenn Batey
Jim McNaughton Jo Ellen & James Alvarez Joanna Kozlowski
Joe Mooney John & Bernadette Duhoski John Birmingham John Blower John Libbe John Young Jonathan Bracci Joyce Felice
Judith Francis Judith Hock Karen Hopkins Karen Lemon Karen Reinhout Karen Stefani Kathleen Moore Kathy Freer Kenneth & Eileen Behmer Kevin Dunivin Kirkland & Ellis LLP Knights of Columbus - Council 5452 Kurt Kazyak Larry & Katherine Scharer Larry Parker Laura Athens Laura Biggs Laura Shaw Laurie Ireland Linda & Frank Ruggirello Linda Thero Loma Campbell Lori Asmer Lori Brown Lori Randolph Lori Witz Lucia Ruggirello Maggie Hay Mara Geiger Marcia Moglia Marie Pizzuti Marjorie Buresh Mark & Cynthia Ventimiglia Mark Mancinotti Mark Wiedelman Mary B Brusstar Mary Kilbride-Cook Mary Kowalski-Wilhelm Mary Staffhorst Michael E Slanec Michael Fahy Michael Jennings Michael Krombeen Michael Voorhees Michael Webber |
| Michele Lyons Michele Ostrander
Michelle Kiernan Michelle Nedwick Mike Kotsis MJS Packaging Mona Freigeh Mouhib Ayas Nancy & Keith Keefer Neal Hopkins New Covenant Church of Auburn Hills
Pam Pudar Pat Krause Patricia Haver Patricia King Paul & Cathy Tonti Paul Gambka Peter & Martha Ruggirello Preston Zale Raymond Rowe Renee Cortright Richard & Linda Thompson Rick Affrica Robert & Andrea Prostko Robert Sattler Robert Webber Rochelle E. Thomas Rochester Eagles No 2634 Rochester Community Schools Rochester Housing Solutions Ron Brown Ronald & Judith Daggett Sameer Hukku Sandra Daubenmeyer
Sandra Tabacchi Sarah McKay Scott Avery
Scott Brooks Sharon & Dean Moscovic Sharon & Tom Gamm
Sheryl Garwood Stacy Solomon Stephan Lawson Steve Alessandri StratComm, LLC Suburban Bolt & Supply Susan & Timothy McAleer TammyLott Tangico Thomas & Carolyn Grose Thomas & Julie Czarnecki
Thomas & Nanette St. Peter Thomas and Judith Staudacher
Thomas DeAgostino Thomas Polisuk Twin Pines Landscaping
United Women in Faith St. Paul's United Methodist Church Wilson Sokana YanFeng Zachary Sill |
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