Smile Farms: An organization where its heart and soul are embedded within its roots.

January 31, 2019

In today’s economy, there are too many unique and qualified individuals who have difficulty finding a place where they are accepted for who they are and at the same time, a place they can be part of something bigger. This is human nature. Unfortunately, not every individual may be given this opportunity, even if that individual has a strong skillset and desirable talent. Individuals with developmental disabilities, a population that is often overlooked from an employment perspective, face this challenge every day, when there are many important contributions they can make in their local communities. Fortunately, Smile Farms is working with individuals with developmental disabilities, imparting pride and dignity that only employment can provide.

I am extremely humble and honored to be part of Smile Farms’ Planning Committee for the Annual Citi-Field Fundraiser. Smile Farms continuously and unconditionally fosters hope and instills the value of life into individuals with developmental disabilities. Founded in 2015 by the McCann Family (founders of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc.), Smile Farms provides employment opportunities in agricultural settings to individuals with developmental disabilities. These hard-working and unique individuals successfully grow a wide variety of produce and plants. The harvest is then sold in a variety of venues where the campuses are located, are used in partner organizations’ kitchens, and are donated to local nonprofits. Smile Farms, with a following that continues to increase in size, inspires its neighbors to support the consumption of these products. As a result, individuals with developmental disabilities are provided with meaningful work which they earn a paycheck for, and at the same time, provide resources to their local communities. At its core, one that I deeply advocate for, Smile Farms believes that communities ought to take care of each other and are strongest when every community member has a stake.

In just three years, Smile Farms expanded from one campus employing 30 individuals to seven campuses employing over 100 individuals, with the support of its partners. I can’t even begin to imagine how far reaching Smile Farms’ impact will be over the next three years. The sky is the limit!

On July 24th, 2019, I will proudly be amongst the Smile Farms Family for their 3rd Annual Citi-Field Fundraiser, home to the New York Mets. I hope you will join us and come learn more about Smile Farms and the phenomenal work they are doing. You can also stay up to date with this and other events by signing up for their e-newsletter: www.smilefarms.org/contact

Show your support, enjoy the game, and meet the amazing and dedicated management team, and the rest of the Smile Farms Family. It will be an enjoyable and unforgettable time you and your family won’t want to miss.

Jeffrey Scott, CPA, MBA
Member of Smile Farms Citi-Field Fundraiser
Cerini & Associates, LLP