Our Story

Explore our mission of inclusion, care, and growth.

Empowering Young Adults Through Hands-On Learning

Learning 4 Life Farm is a 7-acre farm in Johnstown, Ohio with numerous gardens, 6 curious alpacas, 2 friendly barn cats, and 2 cuddly bunnies. Our programs are now available to the community! Learning 4 Life Farm currently offers programs designed to develop job skill and social skill development for Neurodivergent youth and young adults. The Learning 4 Life Farm is overseen by a Board of Directors.  

​Students with autism graduate without work and life skills: 85% of young adults with autism are underemployed. Our program seeks to change that.

Learning Through Experience

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Our Team’s Passion and Professional Background

Our ability to provide an exceptional job training programs program and robust job training for the autism community is made possible by a passionate, highly skilled group of professionals.

Our staff- Jill, Amanda, and Jessica—bring together years of experience in special education, therapeutic support, and agriculture. Every team member is driven by a deep commitment to improving outcomes for teens and young adults on the autism spectrum.

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Jill Medley

Executive Director
Email: jmedley@learning4lifefarm.org

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Amanda Tompkins

Farm Director Email: atompkins@learning4lifefarm.org

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Jessica Arvai

Marketing and Fundraising Email: jarvai@learning4lifefarm.org

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Board Of Directors

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Matt McEnery

Board President
MAC Construction Inc.
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Tim Mosure

Executive Director
Treasurer
Sr. Consultant, Enterprise Risk Management Grange Insurance
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Ralph Davis

​Board Vice President
Training Specialist, Leader and Colleague ​Huntington National Bank
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Mary Lou Gambill

Member
Counselor (Retired)
​Mental Health America
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Fernanda Krupek

Member
Assistant Professor; College of Food, Agricultural, ​and Environmental Sciences; The Ohio State University
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Dr. Osler Ortez

Member
​Assistant Professor College of Food, Agricultural, ​and Environmental Sciences The Ohio State University
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Christian Olson

Member
Footprint Capital

Allyson Davy

Member
JP Morgan Chase

Our Commitment to Growth and Lasting Impact

We understand that meaningful change stems from forging strong relationships, modeling compassion, and setting high expectations.

By prioritizing hands-on experience, community involvement, and continuous improvement, our staff is able to help students progress toward employment and independence.

Our collective expertise and unwavering ethics are the foundation upon which our success is built, allowing the farm to shine as a beacon of hope and transformation within the autism community.

Fueled by passion, extensive training, and a clear sense of purpose, our staff in Johnstown, Ohio, ensure each element of our alpaca therapy program and job training services is expertly delivered, empowering every participant to grow with confidence and dignity.

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Thank you to our sponsors!

Connect and Join Our Mission

We invite you to join us as a volunteer. Your time and energy make a real difference, helping teens and young adults on the autism spectrum build skills, confidence, and independence. Be part of our mission to empower and inspire every day.

Volunteer With Us