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Get Involved
Many different people and organizations come together to make the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm a robust community space. Those who want to share their time and talents may do so by joining one of our community groups, volunteering with our partners onsite, or simply reaching out with ideas and inquiries to localfoods@johnsoncountyiowa.gov. Stay in the loop by signing up for Field Notes, our monthly newsletter!
Volunteer with our site partners
Looking to volunteer at the farm? If you'd like to get your hands in the dirt, Grow: Johnson County would love your help with planting, harvesting, washing, and packing produce. Click the button below to learn more about how to get started volunteering with the Grow team!
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If you're more of a history buff, the Johnson County Historical Society is seeking volunteers help tell the story of the Historic Poor Farm. The Historical Society hosts trainings intermittently and by request. Send an email to Executive Director Alex McKendree to express your interest in being a docent at the Historic Poor Farm. ​
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Sign up for our newsletter
Sign up below to receive the Johnson County Local Food and Farm Team's monthly newsletter, Field Notes. You can expect information on upcoming events, local food job postings, farmer profiles, and much more. Email localfoods@johnsoncountyiowa.gov with any questions or suggestions.
Access all previous editions of the Local Food and Farm Team's newsletter, Field Notes, below.
2024
2025
October
August
November
September
December
Community Groups
Johnson County is fortunate to have a vibrant network of local organizations that seek to improve the lives of residents. We have partnered with several of these local organizations to co-create the HPF as a place that enhances public services to all. Johnson County is grateful to the more than 30 local organizations that have contributed their time and ideas to the HPF.
Three committees have been formed to gather feedback on infrastructure improvements and program development ensure that the farm is developed to meet community needs now and into the future.
DAC
Disability Advisory Committee
The DAC was created to put those who have disabilities or care for people with disabilities in an advisory position when it comes to the development of the site and considerations for their needs and historic connection to the site. This committee provides feedback on site improvements, activities, and future developments to ensure a disability-first framework.
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To remain true to its role and responsibilities, 60% of membership should be people with disabilities and 40% should be able-bodied members.
Historical Resources
Group
The HRG is made up of local professionals from public, private, and educational institutions with a background in historic preservation/research. The HRG oversees many of the historic aspects of the HPF. Their work is much needed as the very nature of the farm makes it difficult to gather artifacts, pictures, and stories from or about former residents. For instance, many families may not have known they had relatives at the farm or are ashamed to admit that they did.
HRG
Community Action
Team
(inactive)
The CAT consists of representatives from different organizations and agencies that serve Johnson County residents. The main role of the CAT is to assess the needs of the community members they serve, and find opportunities for the farm to fill those gaps. The CAT has also advised on different projects such as the design of the Healing Trail and the preservation of the Asylum. The CAT is always open for membership by local non-profits, agencies, and community groups.
CAT