NORTHVILLE, Mich. – For many adults with disabilities, finding meaningful employment can be one of the biggest hurdles to living independently.
A new hands-on program in metro Detroit is working to change that. It is helping young adults gain job experience, build confidence, and develop skills that can lead to long-term careers.
At the Living and Learning Enrichment Center in Northville, a team of young adults spends part of their week in the garden learning how to grow and care for flowers. From there, they help turn those flowers into colorful bouquets that are delivered each week through a community-based flower subscription program.
“We’re at stop number one,” a member of the team members says as they prepare to make deliveries—after putting in hours of work behind the scenes.
“These are hydrangea,” Jared explains while working in the garden.
Jared says he enjoys the routine and the responsibility.
“I like working here because it’s a good place to work,” he said.
The subscription program gives members practical experience that mirrors a real workplace environment—taking orders, assembling bouquets, handling money and working with job coaches to stay on task and meet expectations.
Logan, who helps ensure bouquets are packed correctly and ready to go, says staying busy matters to him.
“Well, my main job is to help them carry them to main campus,” Logan said. “It’s really important. I just don’t want to not be busy,” he added.
Alyssa Givas, the farm education coordinator at Living and Learning Enrichment Center, says the impact goes beyond the job skills.
“When they leave here with their job coach, they feel like they are going to work. It’s very impactful for them,” Givas said. “They are learning these skills. They take it very seriously, and they are very proud of what they do.”
Staff members say the long-term goal is helping participants prepare for adulthood and independence, especially as families think about what the future looks like.
“Not just for now when their parents are still here, but what happens afterwards,” Givas said. “Where are they going to live? How are they going to care for themselves? Are they going to have those valuable skills that they need to move forward in their life?”
For John, who often works the farm stand, the program is also about connecting with the community.
“I love that it gets me out and interactive with customers,” he said.
The public gets to see hard workers who want a chance to thrive.
“They don’t focus on what we have. They focus on what we are,” John added.
The workers say one of the best ways to help is by visiting the farm stand:
Living and Learning Enrichment Center Farm Stand, 801 Griswold St, Northville, MI 48167.
Monday through Friday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.