2018 TASH Conference

Join us for a storytelling session focused on a rural western community's approach to innovative problem solving around issues of employment, inclusion and food production. Better known as a ski mecca and a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole seems like an unlikely place for a cutting-edge agricultural venture with a dual mission: providing year-round produce to local restaurants and offering competitive wages and meaningful employment to community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities. However, it is home to Vertical Harvest (VH), an ambitious and creative for-profit vertical greenhouse with a non-profit soul. The presentation will feature excerpts from "Hearts of Glass," a recently completed documentary following the first 15 months of the innovative vertical farm's operation. The film weaves business drama with the personal journeys of five featured employees with disabilities, who represent a spectrum of ages, genders, living situations, educational backgrounds and employment histories. In addition to viewing scenes from the film, the participants will hear from a panel including: the film’s director;Ty Warner, a VH employee/self-advocate; Ty’s father Bill, a VH volunteer and disability advocate; VH’s Director of Human Resources/ED of Cultivate; and the Project Manager of TASH’s Youth Employment Solutions Center. Through the lens of their personal experiences, panelists will address issues raised in the film - from training and supported employment, to inclusivity, integration and competitive pay. They will also discuss the need for creative thinking and innovation in developing career opportunities for underserved populations. The last 10 minutes of the session will be Q&A.