WHITEHOUSE – Bittersweet Farms is redefining autism therapy by combining the nurturing environment of a working farm with innovative therapeutic programs. Established in 1983, this nonprofit organization is known for its approach to autism care, which focuses on meaningful work, community living and comprehensive support.
Like the produce they grow, Bittersweet Farms began as a seed that was planted in the minds of Toledo Public School teacher Bettye Ruth Kay, the students with autism in her special education classroom, and their families. As her students aged out of public education in the late 1970s, they faced limited options.
Inspired by Somerset Court in England, the first farmstead community for adults with autism, Ruth Kay returned to Ohio and founded Bittersweet Farms in 1983 with the help of the local community. It became the first farmstead program for adults with autism in the U.S. and the second in the world.
Agriculture as therapy
At the heart of Bittersweet Farms’ therapeutic approach is its 80-acre working farm. Participants engage in various tasks—tending to organic vegetable gardens, caring for livestock and creating artisanal products in workshops. These activities are therapeutic and help build practical skills, self-esteem and a sense of purpose.
Beth Kuntz-Wineland, gardens vocational specialist at Bittersweet Farms, emphasized the importance of their agricultural programs. “Our mission is to positively impact the lives of individuals with autism and those whose lives they touch,” she said.
“Gardening plays a crucial role in this. The process of planting seeds, caring for plants and harvesting produce provides our participants with structure and a sense of accomplishment.”
One of the core elements of Bittersweet Farms’ success is the MAPS (Meaning, Aerobic activity, Partnership and planning, Structure and support) philosophy, which guides all activities at the farm.
“The MAPS philosophy is the life force of all that we do,” Kuntz-Wineland emphasized. “Each letter stands for a crucial element of our strategy. Meaning and motivation ensure that tasks are purposeful. Aerobic activity keeps participants physically engaged. Partnership and planning promote teamwork and structure and support provide the necessary framework for all activities,” she explained.
The horticultural program gives individuals the opportunity to connect with nature and participate in the entire cycle of food production, from planting seeds to harvesting crops. Bittersweet Farms has grown 2,894 pounds of produce in 2024, supplying their residential homes with fresh salad greens for six months of the year during the growing season.
Additionally, the farm regularly donates produce to the SAME Café, located in the downtown Toledo Lucas County Public Library, where participants also volunteer on Mondays and Tuesdays. The farm’s produce is often sold at local markets, allowing participants to see their work valued by the community.
Innovative autism programs and services
Bittersweet Farms offers a variety of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals with autism. Vocational training prepares participants for employment, while recreational and social activities help build relationships and social skills. Therapeutic interventions, such as sensory integration sessions and art therapy, support emotional and psychological well-being.
The residential program provides adults with autism the opportunity to live in a supportive, communal environment. Residents share homes and responsibilities, fostering a sense of family and mutual support.
“Our residential component includes an Intermediate Care Facility and waiver homes,” said Megan Thompson, executive director of Bittersweet Farms. “We provide tailored support to enhance independence while ensuring that individuals receive the necessary care.”
Bittersweet Farms remains active during the winter months, continuing its mission of providing meaningful activities and opportunities for growth. “We start planting seeds in late February or early March, growing everything from seed to harvest,” Kuntz-Wineland explained.
“We have a greenhouse heated by a natural wood burner, which allows us to get a head start on the growing season. Our groundskeeping crew works year-round maintaining the landscaping of the farm, ensuring that everything is ready for the upcoming planting season.”
During the colder months, participants engage in various tasks, such as maintaining trails, chopping firewood and harvesting winter crops.
A community effort
The success of Bittersweet Farms is attributed in large part to the support of the local community. Volunteers, donors and partnerships with local businesses and organizations play a crucial role in sustaining and expanding the farm’s initiatives. Annual events, such as the Bittersweet Autism Awareness Walk and seasonal festivals, bring community members together, raising awareness and funds for the organization’s programs.
Over the years, Bittersweet Farms has expanded across northwest Ohio, opening a second farmstead in Lima in 2005 and a third in Pemberville in 2006. Today, they provide residential, vocational, transitional and recreational services to over 100 individuals at these three locations. Many of Ruth Kaye’s students still live and work at Bittersweet.
Looking to the future, Bittersweet Farms remains committed to evolving and expanding its services.
“We are always exploring innovative therapies and opportunities to better serve individuals with autism and their families,” said Thompson. “In January 2025, we’re launching a new senior living group to support our aging residents with specialized programs and activities.”
“The most rewarding part for me is seeing the partnerships developed between the individuals with autism we serve and our staff,” said Thompson. “There’s no hierarchy here—just camaraderie and mutual respect.”
Thompson and Kuntz-Wineland encourage those interested in learning more or getting involved, and invite anyone to come out for a tour. “Whether you’re looking for services or want to support our mission, we welcome you,” said Thompson.
You can learn more about Bittersweet Farms by visiting their website.
