By Rosemary Oliver
WindReach Farm is a not-for-profit organization located near Ashburn, north of Whitby in Ontario. It is a 105-acre working farm and therapeutic riding centre that is fully accessible to people of all ages with disabilities or special needs and their families. The Farm, which opened in 1989, also welcomes able-bodied communities to enjoy the atmosphere, and to interact with and share in the care of its wide range of animals.
The Learning-4-Life Program at WindReach Farm is a day program for adults with disabilities. Today, the group will be building a bird box, walking some goats and visiting the Farm’s “book nook.” Tomorrow, they might take a walk to collect natural materials for a spring wreath and enjoy a sing-along with a visiting musician.
WindReach Farm’s structured and therapeutic programs are designed to strengthen skills, independence and physical well-being in a safe and nurturing farming environment. This promotes confidence, continued education and active living through social, cognitive, recreational and daily living activities.
The Community Participation Program assists participants with life skills training and hands-on work experience, which gives meaning and purpose to their lives. Such skills are developed through practical involvement in the running and maintenance of the facilities and the care of the animals.
Beyond the Farm Gate is a mobile service that visits users out in the 
community, allowing them to enjoy the educational and therapeutic aspects of the Farm if they are unable to visit in person.
WindReach Farm relies on many dedicated volunteers, who are ready and willing to support the wide range of service areas. New volunteers are always welcome. Due to the nature of the Farm, it also offers a variety of placement opportunities to students preparing for or currently enrolled in fields such as health care, community support and veterinary training, as well as volunteer hours for high-school students.
Rosemary Oliver is a retired occupational therapist and volunteer at WindReach Farm.
WindReach Farm is proud to be the Ontario home of Can Praxis (supported by funds from Wounded Warriors Canada), which uses horses to help soldiers recover from war and regain their family relationships.
Windreach Farm welcomes inquiries and is keen to work with individuals, groups and referring agencies to customize visits to suit individual needs.
