MISSION & VISION

Madison Fields is a community-powered agricultural resource center that builds community resilience by cultivating an environment for wellness, opportunity, and connection for the benefit of historically underserved and isolated populations.

We envision a bright future where every member of our community provides and receives the support necessary to embody their inherent worth and value; enjoys generative relationships with themselves, others and the land; and participates in the joint project to realize our fullest human potential.

OUR PRIORITIES

1. 1. Improve health & wellness
   2. Harness individual capacity to participate & contribute
   3. Foster community engagement

WHO WE SERVE

At Madison Fields, we strive to foster an environment where all feel welcome, safe and included.

We serve:

• • Individuals with autism and other neuro-diversities
  • Individuals with physical disability or injury
  • Men and women in uniform
  • Individuals struggling with mental health or behavioral challenges
  • Food-insecure & economically disadvantaged households

WHAT WE DO

We are committed to the preservation of the natural sanctuary we call Madison Fields for the benefit of our community. It is important that we make places of healing, respite, and reflection accessible to those in our community who are struggling to cope with life’s many challenges. The programs and activities we host reflect this commitment. Among these are:

• • Equine-Assisted Services (EAS)
    • Therapeutic Horseback Riding
    • Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)
    • Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP)
  • Job Readiness Program (JRP) for adults with autism
  • Agricultural Education & Activities
  • On-Site Soapery, a social enterprise
  • Organize fun, inclusive, family-friendly community events
  • Host for “New Day” Wellness Retreats, Yoga, and more
  • Host a 1-Acre Garden, nurtured by Locals Farm Market, providing fresh produce to food-insecure households
  • Host community leadership events

HOW TO HELP

Please join with us in inviting those who are often found at the edges of society due to perceived limitations back into the heart of community life. Your participation and support is vital to the realization of our vision. Giving comes in all kinds of packages. We are in need of:

• • Volunteers
  • Sponsors
  • Charitable Donations
  • In-Kind Donations
  • Partnerships
  • Patronage
    • Book your meetings and events with us
    • Attend Madison Fields events
    • Support our programs and social enterprises

HISTORY

Madison Fields was launched in 2014 by Madison House Autism Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Rockville, Maryland working to address the lifespan challenges facing adults with autism. These challenges are not dissimilar to those that other historically marginalized and isolated populations experience in our community. At Madison Fields, we believe we grow best when we are all growing together. The work necessary to build more inclusive communities cannot be done in a silo.

WHY WE STARTED

When children with autism grow up, they age out of federally mandated accommodations administered through the public school system. Without viable options that provide sufficient support in adulthood, many find few opportunities for continued growth, learning, and participation in community that would enable them to achieve their greatest potential.

We know that adults with autism can achieve greater independence and overall well-being when they are provided with the right support. We also recognize that these adults represent a unique reservoir of untapped potential that can add value to all of our lives when invest time to understand and utilize their special interests, skills, and views of the world. Diversity and inclusion is what makes life rich and beautiful. All of us have something special to contribute.

Our goal is to model what can be accomplished when we recognize the ability and potential within all members of our community, honor their inherent worth and dignity, and provide the support necessary for participation.

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THE PROPERTY

Madison Fields sits on 400-acres of beautiful farmland in the Agricultural Reserve of Montgomery County, Maryland in the small community of Dickerson outside of Poolesville. Situated just 30 miles from Washington D.C., it provides easy access to a peaceful, natural sanctuary. The land features:

• • A fish pond and dock
  • Forest trails
  • Horse pastures
  • Crop fields
  • A 1-acre Garden
  • A perennial stream
  • Easy access to the Potomac river

The property also includes several existing buildings with future plans for additional purposefully built structures.

Historic Farmhouse
Current uses include retreats, events and other gatherings.

Big Woods Home

Milking Parlor
A multi-use main-floor for events, retreats, and other gatherings.

Tenant House
Private residencies for on-site Madison Fields employees.

Bank Barn
A traditional barn for special events.

Equestrian Center
Offices, indoor/outdoor riding arenas, Equine-Assisted Services (EAS)

Engine Barn
A wood and mechanic shop and storage facility.

Chicken Coop
Home for our family of chickens.

Buckeystown Store
Located 10 miles down the road en route to Frederick. Currently, home to local antique vendors who’s sales support Madison Fields.