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Proposed farm for adults with autism in Kalamazoo takes step forward

Courtesy of Cindy Semark

    

The founders of Aacorn Farm hope to raise $3-million to give adults with autism the option to live and work on a farm.

One of the founders of Aacorn Farm Cindy Semark is also the vice president of its board. She  says they are looking for 40 to 60 acres of land. The group was recently granted its tax-exempt, non-profit certification. Semark says that will help with raising money.

Semark told WMUK's Gordon Evans that the farm will provide stable, meaningful work for people with autism. She says those jobs work well for people who need repetition. Semark says there are also plans to provide music therapy and arts and crafts. 

AACORNFARM-SEMARK11-web.mp3
Air version of interview with Cindy Semark

Semark's son Jeremiah has sensory issues like many people with autism. She says a more peaceful setting out doors with no traffic noise is beneficial for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her son is now 39 years old and Semark says Jeremiah would like to live and work on a farm. 

When asked about a timetable for Aacorn Farm, Semark says that will depend on donations. She says similar farms in other states have been able to use donated land to get started. Semark says that would help get a farm for adults with autism off the ground in Kalamazoo County. 

(Information on how to donate can be found here)

Gordon Evans became WMUK's Content Director in 2019 after more than 20 years as an anchor, host and reporter. A 1990 graduate of Michigan State, he began work at WMUK in 1996.
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