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A Community Where Everyone Belongs

AACORN enriches lives on a 40-acre farm in Kalamazoo County through inclusive programs, meaningful routines, and real community connection. We are a place where adults with intellectual and developmental differences build skills, find purpose, and belong—and where neighbors, volunteers, and supporters are always welcome.

Whether you are an adult exploring program opportunities, a family member seeking support, a volunteer looking to give back, or a community member wanting to learn more, there is a place for you here.

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The restored red barn with its curved roof at AACORN’s 40-acre farm, under a clear blue sky.

Who We Are

Learn about AACORN’s mission, history, core values and the people who make our community possible. Discover how a parent-led vision grew into a place where adults with intellectual and developmental differences can connect, contribute, and thrive.

Our Story →

Programs and Activities

Explore skill-building opportunities, daily farm activities, and enrollment information. From animal care and gardening to cooking and crafts, AACORN participants build skills, make connections, and grow at their own pace.

Explore Programs →

Get Involved

There are many ways to support AACORN and strengthen a community where everyone belongs. Volunteer, donate, attend an event, or become a community partner. Every contribution of time, talent, or resources helps create meaningful opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental differences.

See How →
Participant holding baby goat.
Participant with wheelbarrow full of yard clippings.

Life at AACORN

A morning might begin with feeding the goats. An afternoon could mean pulling weeds in the garden, stirring a pot of soup in the kitchen, or finishing a craft project with friends. People connect in different ways, and the farm offers opportunities for everyone to build relationships, contribute, and belong. Animals provide companionship and acceptance, creating bonds that often transcend words.

“It feels like I have friends and a place where I belong.”

— Michael, AACORN participant

See more of the farm →

Growing Together Since 2011

What started as five families and a shared dream has grown into a thriving farm community. In 2011, a group of parents came together after realizing how few opportunities existed for adults with intellectual and developmental differences once they aged out of school. AACORN was their answer—a place built on meaningful opportunities, daily connection, and the belief that purpose, belonging, and community can change lives. Every day, participants, staff, volunteers, and supporters continue building the community AACORN’s founders first imagined.

Founded
acres
Farm
Participants served annually (35 year-round, 10 seasonal)
+ hours
Volunteerism AACORN gives back to the community annually
Read Our Story →
Participants and staff working together on AACORN's 40-acre Kalamazoo County farm.

Partners in Our Mission

AACORN’s work is made possible by the generous support of foundations, businesses, and community partners across Kalamazoo County.

The Fletcher Foundation
Thomas A. Todd Foundation
Nancy Malcomson Connable Fund
The Marvin and Rosalie Okun Foundation
ENNA Foundation
Dorothy U. Dalton Foundation
Gary Sisters Foundation
Glen C. and Gail G. Smith Fund
The Harold and Grace Upjohn Foundation
Become a Partner →

Latest at AACORN

See recent farm news, public events, and community updates from AACORN. Whether it is an open house, a seasonal celebration, or a story from daily life on the farm, this is where you will find what is happening now.

See All Updates →