Smile Farms Hosts Second Annual Partner Conference Ahead of 2026 Growing Season

Jericho, NY. Smile Farms hosted its second annual Partner Conference on April 15 at its Jericho office, bringing together program leaders, educators, and disability service providers from across Long Island and New York City for an interactive gathering to share insights and strengthen program design ahead of the 2026 growing season.

The nonprofit organization, the proud philanthropic partner of 1-800-Flowers.com, focuses on creating employment and vocational training opportunities for people with developmental disabilities through agriculture.

As Smile Farms continues to expand its network of partner campuses, the session provided a forum to align strategies that support participant growth and long-term outcomes.

“With the growing season approaching, this was an important time to come together and ensure that our programs are not only productive, but high-quality training environments,” said Isabel Londono, Program Manager at Smile Farms. “Smile Farms provides meaningful employment, along with vocational training that helps participants build skills and develop within our programs.”

Attendees included key partner organizations such as IGHL, Catholic Health’s Nassau PROS program, The League Center, Constructive Partnerships Unlimited, Nassau BOCES’ Rosemary Kennedy School and Center for Community Adjustment, and The Viscardi Center’s Abilities program.

“We are incredibly grateful for our partners, who play a critical role in delivering hands-on training and development,” said Steve McDermott, Managing Director at Smile Farms. “Together, we create opportunities for individuals to gain real work experience, build skills, and contribute throughout the growing season.”

The programs are supported through strong agricultural partnerships, including Crossroads Farm at Grossman’s and Brooklyn Grange, whose expertise in crop planning, farm management, and education helps ensure each campus operates as a productive and supportive training environment.

Discussions centered on defining what makes a strong Smile Farms program, including the development of both hard and soft skills, clear pathways for participant progression, and more consistent approaches to measuring impact. By strengthening program design, partners are better equipped to provide participants with valuable, hands-on experiences throughout the season.

Smile Farms currently supports more than 400 individuals across its partner network, cultivating not only fresh produce but also confidence, independence, and a sense of purpose.

For more information about Smile Farms and its programs, visit www.smilefarms.org.