Communities of Interest
AgrAbility Communities of Interest (COIs) are member-driven groups that discuss topics related to disability in agriculture. Communities normally have monthly or bimonthly conference calls, and structure of these meetings may include open discussion, case studies, and presentations from outside experts. AgrAbility COIs are open to those not employed by AgrAbility Projects, including consumers and professionals.
Click here to view the current calendar of COI calls. Contact the individual COI leaders for phone numbers.
Arthritis and Agriculture
Leader: Amber Wolfe
Description: The Arthritis and Agriculture Community of Interest was developed to provide an opportunity for agricultural professionals, AgrAbility staff, Arthritis Foundation staff, rural health care professionals, and the general public to network and discuss topics of interest or concern regarding the affects of arthritis on farmers, other agricultural workers, and their families and how to provide help in those situations. The COI is member-driven in regard to structure and topic and holds monthly conference calls.
Assistive Technology
Leader: Steve Swain
Description: The Assistive Technology Community of Interest meets via conference call bi-monthly to learn and discuss issues relating to assistive technology for the farm. Conference calls typically occur the third Thursday of the month at 3 PM Eastern time and last approximately one hour. Topics have included funding of assistive technology, professional certification for AT professionals, case studies, and brain-storming sessions.
Ergonomics
Leader: Rob Stuthridge
Description: The AgrAbility Ergonomics Community of Interest aims to optimize the efficiency, productivity, and health of farmers and ranchers with disabilities through the proper application of ergonomics. Ergonomics COI members consider the usability of assistive technology, share relevant research and experiences, and explore ways to safely resolve difficulties encountered by clients of AgrAbility. COI members come from a variety of backgrounds, with a common interest in enhancing and protecting the quality of life for agricultural workers with disabilities.
Mental/Behavioral Health
Leader: Paul Jones
Description: The Mental/Behavioral Health Community of Interest meets bi-monthly to learn more about recognizing and responding to the needs of clients with mental/behavioral health disorders. To do so, participants learn more about how professional mental/behavioral health organizations can help clients and where to refer them for professional treatment. General discussions within the community group and with invited experts contribute to accomplishing the group's goals.
Peer Support
Leader: Rob Stuthridge
Description: The AgrAbility Peer Support Community of Interest (an ad hoc COI) seeks to develop national and regional networks of farmers and ranchers with disabilities to assist each other by sharing experiences, information, advice, and encouragement. The COI focuses on two often interrelated aspects of peer support: physical accommodations and emotional problem-solving. The COI has developed a position statement which reflects its interests both in developing a vibrant, functional peer network, while reducing the risks posed by erroneous advice.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Leader: Steve Etheridge
Description: Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is an important partner with AgrAbility Projects VR as a valuable resource of funding for assistive technology, modifications, adaptations, and accommodations for persons with disability working in agriculture. The VR Community of Interest (COI) is made up of AgrAbility Staff, Rehabilitation Professionals and additional interested colleagues. The COI's purpose is to promote understanding of VR, develop resources, provide technical assistance related to VR, and to continue to strengthen collaboration between the two organizations.
