Watch Out For Watch Us Farm!

BY DR. DAROLYN “LYN” JONES

NO SMALL TALK, JUST BIG MISSION: WATCH US FARM EMPOWERS YOUNG ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES

When you meet Janice Agarwal of Watch Us Farm in Zionsville, don’t expect small talk. She jumps right into her passion— ensuring young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) have a place and purpose after they age out of school.

HER MISSION IS WORKING.

For many young adults with ID/ DD, life after high school can be isolating. Day centers are often full, expensive or inaccessible due to transportation challenges.

Watch Us Farm, a private nonprofit, is changing that. The organization trains and employs individuals with ID/DD in community-integrated settings, helping them find purpose, independence and belonging. Rather than forcing these adults to fit into a typical mold, Janice and her husband, Dr. David Agarwal, have built an environment where they can thrive.

The Agarwals were inspired by their son, Alex, who has Prader-Willi syndrome. Determined to provide him with meaningful opportunities after high school, they partnered with Henke Development Group to transform donated property into a sanctuary for adults with special needs. Their goal: provide a safe, supportive space where individuals can gain job skills, develop independence and build friendships.

Located on 25 acres in rural Zionsville, Watch Us Farm began 10 years ago with hydroponic greenhouse gardening—a sustainable method that grows plants in nutrient-rich water instead of soil. The farm sells microgreens and produce on-site, at farmers markets and to local restaurants.

In addition to farming, the on-site Watch Us Weave shop teaches young adults to handcraft blankets, shawls, rugs, placemats and greeting cards.

When new participants join the program, they’re assessed to determine their strengths, preferences and goals. From there, they are matched with tasks that suit them. Skill building, communication and collaboration are integrated into every activity. From planting seeds to selling products, the young adults are involved every step of the way.

And Watch Us Farm isn’t stopping there. Thanks to a $500,000 grant from the IU Health Community Impact program, the organization is planning a new Campus Hub Center. The center will expand vocational training while serving as a space for agri-tourism, education and community events—all operated with the help of individuals with ID/DD.

The hub will offer workshops, classes, community programs and potentially supported and independent living options. The vision is for individuals with ID/DD to not only work—but to be recognized as integral members of the community.

The grant is a major boost, but not enough to fund the entire project. Watch Us Farm continues to seek

donations, volunteers and community support to bring the center to life.

One way to help is by attending the annual fundraiser, Dinner at Dusk, on Sept. 27, 2025. This year’s theme is Denim and Diamonds, with farm-to-table dining and dancing under the stars.

Learn more at watchusfarm.com, and follow the organization on Facebook at facebook.com/WatchUsFarm.

Learn more at watchusfarm.com, and follow the organization on Facebook at facebook.com/WatchUsFarm.

Watch Us Farm is committed to cultivating a community where everyone has the opportunity to grow, contribute and thrive.