Growing Together: Our Windreach Farm Journey Since 2018

Benji hard at work on the farm, focused and proud as he completes his tasks.

Our First Visit to Windreach Farm

When we first started volunteering at Windreach Farm back in 2018, we had no idea how deeply it would impact our lives. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was so inviting and welcoming that we instantly felt a connection, not only to the farm itself, but also to the people who make it so special.

There’s an indescribable feeling that comes from belonging to a place where people of all abilities come together with shared purpose and joy. We were fortunate to be guided by Eleanor Meredith, who led the CPP program at the time.

Over the years, Eleanor taught us so much about the values that Windreach stands for. She had a special way of making Benji and Giulietta feel seen and appreciated, always acknowledging their strengths and celebrating their progress. Through her patience and encouragement, she empowered them to grow in confidence and independence. Eleanor truly embodied the values that Sandy Mitchell envisioned for Windreach, and from the very beginning, we knew this would be an incredible learning environment for both Benji and Giulietta.

Seven years later, we’re still so grateful to have found Windreach Farm. Every week, we look forward to therapeutic horseback riding, caring for the animals, and helping with farm chores, experiences that have become an important part of our routine.

What Windreach Farm Means to Us

Windreach truly means the world to us. It’s been a place where Benji and Giulietta have been able to showcase their talents, learn new skills, and build meaningful connections.

Through the therapeutic riding program, we’ve worked closely with the Windreach team to create experiences that support our goals. Watching their progress over the years has been incredible.

Just last year, Benji often felt frustrated and agitated while riding. But with the patience and consistency of the Windreach team and his support workers, he’s made such inspiring progress. Now, he smiles through the class, confidently guides his horse, and leaves feeling capable and proud of himself.

We truly believe that Windreach has helped shape Benji and Giulietta into the amazing young adults they are today. Their time at the farm has helped them develop important life skills that they now use every day, both at home and at their jobs at IKEA and Loblaws.

To us, Windreach is more than just a farm, it’s a community built on acceptance and inclusion. It’s a safe, welcoming space where individuals can be themselves, grow at their own pace, and feel valued for who they are.

What’s Most Important About Windreach

The most important thing about Windreach is its mission to break barriers and celebrate differences. It’s not just a place to visit, it’s a place to belong. The kindness and warmth you feel the moment you arrive is something truly special.

What We Enjoy Most

Recently, we joined a new Friday program where people of all abilities work together on various jobs around the farm. We love being part of a team and contributing in meaningful ways that make a difference.

Both Benji and Giulietta love sweeping the barn, feeding the animals, riding horses, chatting with others, and simply being part of a community that believes in them.

Every visit reminds us that Windreach Farm is more than a place, it’s a family.