July 26th is National Disability Independence Day, celebrating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. In honor of this day, we are highlighting a UF program that provides support for individuals with disabilities who work in the Agriculture industry. Read below to gain insights from Lindsey Head, Project Manager for the Florida AgrAbility Project, and Amy Feutz, Executive Director for the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida.
What has your professional journey looked like, and what experiences have influenced your career path in agriculture and disability services?
Lindsey: My professional journey has been driven by a passion for agriculture and a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. After earning two undergraduate degrees in agriculture, I began my career in agricultural research, where I developed a strong technical foundation and gained an appreciation for the industry’s challenges and opportunities. While I enjoyed the work, I realized I wanted a career that allowed me to work more directly with people. After learning how many farmers and ranchers live and work with injuries and disabilities, I developed a passion for helping them remain productive and independent. That passion led me to Florida AgrAbility, where I found the opportunity to combine my agricultural background with service.
Amy: I have always been drawn to the nonprofit sector and the helping professions because I find purpose in making a positive difference in the lives of others. This passion has guided me throughout the years, as I continue to build a rewarding career in human services. I began at the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida (CILNCF) in direct service, working closely with youth with disabilities and their families, and over the years have grown into leadership roles overseeing programs, operations, grant development, strategic planning, and community partnerships. What has influenced my career the most has been the opportunity to learn from the individuals with disabilities we serve. Their determination and unique perspectives have reinforced the importance of removing barriers and creating inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I have remained grounded in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to live independently and reach their full potential. I have also been so grateful and fortunate to work alongside people with disabilities, their families, dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners who share that commitment.
What led you to AgrAbility, and what has motivated you to stay connected to its mission?
Lindsey: AgrAbility is a truly unique program that perfectly aligns with both my love for agriculture and my desire to serve others. I was looking for an opportunity that would allow me to make a direct impact while remaining connected to the agricultural industry, and AgrAbility was exactly that. The opportunity to help farmers and ranchers overcome challenges, remain productive, and continue doing what they love is incredibly meaningful to me. Seeing the resilience of the people we serve and the difference our program makes in helping them remain in agriculture is what continues to inspire and motivate me every day.
What is one of your favorite or most impactful initiatives you’ve worked on through AgrAbility?
Lindsey: One of the most impactful initiatives I’ve worked on has been Florida AgrAbility’s Hurricane Ian Relief Program in partnership with the Center for Independent Living of Broward, Gulf Coast. Hurricane Ian caused an estimated $1.03 billion in agricultural production losses across Florida, leaving many producers uncertain about the future of their operations. Through this program, we helped farmers begin rebuilding so they could return to the agricultural industry and continue doing what they love. The assistance provided through AgrAbility helped restore the production of more than 515,000 pounds of citrus and 130,000 pounds of blueberries annually, representing an estimated $1.1 million in annual agricultural output returned to Florida’s agricultural economy. Being part of an effort that not only supported individual farm families but also contributed to the recovery of Florida agriculture has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time with AgrAbility.
Collaboration is a critical skill across industries. AgrAbility is a great example of organizations working together toward a shared mission. Why are partnerships like those with the Center for Independent Living and UF/IFAS Extension essential to the program’s success?
Amy: The CILNCF is a community-based, nonprofit organization that empowers people with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in their communities. We provide services such as peer support, advocacy, independent living skills training, information and referral, transition, and guidance on assistive technology and accommodations. Our mission aligns well with AgrAbility’s goal of helping farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers with disabilities continue working safely and successfully. This partnership allows us to bridge the gap between agriculture and disability services. By combining the CILNCF’s expertise in disability resources, accommodations and adaptive technologies with AgrAbility’s agricultural knowledge, individuals receive personalized, community-based assistance that promotes independence, self-sufficiency, and long-term success both on and off the farm.
How can UF students get involved with AgrAbility through opportunities such as volunteering, internships, research, or service learning?
Lindsey: While Florida AgrAbility does not have a formal volunteer program, there are still several ways for UF students to get involved and learn about the program. Students are encouraged to attend our educational webinars and presentations, subscribe to our newsletter, and connect with us at outreach events across the state. These opportunities provide valuable insight into the intersection of agriculture, accessibility, and assistive technology while allowing students to learn from professionals working directly with Florida’s agricultural community.
What skills, experiences, or competencies would be most valuable for students interested in pursuing careers related to agriculture, accessibility, and community impact?
Lindsey: I believe one of the most valuable skills is the ability to build relationships. Programs like AgrAbility are built on trust; Being able to connect with farmers, partner organizations, Extension agents, and community stakeholders is essential. Strong communication skills, empathy, and a willingness to listen are just as important as technical agricultural knowledge. I also encourage students to seek experiences outside the classroom through internships, volunteer opportunities, Extension programs, or research. Those experiences help develop problem-solving skills, expose you to the diverse challenges faced by agricultural communities, and reinforce the importance of serving others. Every farmer and every situation is different, and the ability to adapt while keeping the individual’s goals at the center of your work is what makes the greatest impact.
July 26th is National Disability Independence Day, which commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Why is it important to recognize this day, particularly within the agriculture industry?
Amy: National Disability Independence Day is an opportunity to celebrate the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and to recognize the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have equal opportunities to live, work, and participate fully in their communities. While the ADA has helped remove many barriers over the past 36 years, it also reminds us that creating accessible and inclusive environments is an ongoing responsibility. Within the agriculture industry, this day is important to recognize because farming is more than a job, it’s a way of life, and for many, a family legacy. An injury, illness, or disability should not mean the end of a person’s ability to contribute to their operation or remain involved in agriculture. Through adaptive equipment, assistive technology, workplace accommodations, and strong community partnerships, many farmers and agricultural workers can continue doing the work they love safely and productively. National Disability Independence Day also highlights the importance of changing negative perceptions and attitudes towards people with disabilities, which is a huge societal barrier. People with disabilities bring valuable skills, knowledge, and resilience to agriculture. By fostering accessibility and inclusion, we strengthen our agricultural communities, preserve farming traditions, and ensure that individuals are recognized for their abilities rather than their limitations. Programs like UF AgrAbility demonstrate that with the right resources and support, disability does not have to be a barrier to a successful and rewarding career in agriculture.
