At Quest Farm, we believe it is important for people to have their own identity. It gives people a sense of self-worth and helps them become independent and productive members of society. The men and women of Quest Farm have the title of "farmers." This identity lets the farmers recognize their worth, dignity, and importance in the community in which they live. Although some of the farmers are from out of state, most are from the Central Kentucky area. The ages range from 30 - 70 years old. Each farmer lives in one of the three houses with a set of House Managers. We believe this loving, family-like atmosphere encourages individuals to strive
to reach their full potential.

The farmers are involved in many activities that include work activities, educational activities, social activities, and physical activities. A big part of their education and training comes from their vocational activities. Under the guidance of an educated and knowledgeable staff, the farmers learn about agriculture, horticulture, gardening, landscaping, crafts, woodworking, cottage industries, vegetable production, animal care, retailing, equipment use and maintenance, lawn care, etc. The farm setting offers a wide variety of educational and vocational opportunities.

The farmers raise several hundred thousand bedding plants every year in 4 large greenhouses. There is something rewarding about planting a seed and watching it grow and develop into a beautiful flower. It builds a sense of pride and self-worth. They also raise about two acres of asparagus, an acre of cabbage, an acre of green bell peppers, a half acre of strawberries, and many other fruits and vegetables. In the fall and winter, about 3,000 mums, several thousand pansies, hundreds of poinsettias, and a greenhouse full of hydroponic tomatoes are raised. Quest Farm is a busy and productive place.

Farmers

Along with the gardening, agriculture, and horticulture program, the farmers are also actively involved in a craft and woodworking program, and in cottage industries. The farmers make beautiful good quality crafts that will enhance any home or garden. The farmers are also involved with making buttons and doing mail-outs for outside businesses. These products made and grown by the farmers are sold in the Quest Farm "En-Dearing" Garden Center and Country Store and wholesaled to restaurants and groceries. The sale of these products provide an important source of income for the farm. The farmers help to support themselves by growing and making these premium quality products and the buyer can feel good knowing that every dollar goes to help support the farmers at Quest Farm.

Along with the many work activities, the farmers participate in bowling, swimming, track and field, working out, trips to the library, fishing, vacations, church, eating out, quarterly birthday parties, Special Olympics, and other social events. We believe it is important for the farmers to be a part of the community. The women deliver Meals on Wheels a couple of times a month and some of the men have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity. Quest Farm also has a chime choir that travels and plays at different churches in the community. It is this well-rounded life style that allows the farmers to gain a sense of self-worth and independence, and become productive members of the community in which they live.

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