Smile Farms hosted its second annual Partner Conference on April 15 at its Jericho office where program leaders, educators and disability service providers from across Long Island and New York City shared insights and strengthened program design ahead of the 2026 growing season.
The nonprofit organization, the 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 support participant growth and long-term outcomes, officials with the nonprofit said.
“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, said in a statement.
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.
“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.
Smile Farms currently supports more than 400 individuals across its partner network.
For more information about Smile Farms and its programs, visit www.smilefarms.org.