Growing Purpose & Cultivating Inclusion in Nature’s Classroom

Welcome to the Farm!

Homesteads for Hope is a 501c3 non-profit Community Farm and Future Housing Village nestled on 55 acres along the wide waters of Historic Erie Canal in Rochester, NY. Founded by a mother and daughter team with a mission to support other families; our organization has truly evolved into a nurturing community where people of all abilities thrive, finding purpose and belonging in nature's classroom.

At Homesteads, we are committed to redefining the boundaries of inclusion, promoting a society where differences are celebrated and where each person is recognized for the valuable role they play at our Community Farm.

Where Every Heart Finds a Home

Everyone is welcome at Homesteads for Hope!
Our farm is open to the public for all sorts of things — no membership required. You can shop at our Farm Store, attend concerts and seasonal events, take part in community classes, volunteer during posted hours, and pick your own flowers during U-Pick times. Whether you're here once a year or every week, we're happy to have you.

Want to get even more involved?
Our optional Social Membership is perfect for folks who love spending time at the farm and want to support its ongoing mission. Members enjoy extra perks like daily recreational access to the farm grounds, priority volunteer opportunities, discounts on classes, invitations to members-only events, and access to free or discounted community programs.

It's a simple way to deepen your connection with the land — and help us grow.

Everyone is Welcome

Homesteads for Hope is a place where people of all abilities come together to learn, grow, and connect. Whether you're a student, volunteer, member, or first-time visitor, there’s always something meaningful to do — from planting seeds in the greenhouse and gathering eggs from the coop to harvesting vegetables, making flower bouquets, or helping to pull weeds and water the gardens.

Stop by the Farm Store, come by on a Thursdays at the Farm, pick flowers during our uPick, or join us for one of our many seasonal events and classes. This is a working farm, but it’s also a place to slow down, get your hands dirty, and be part of something real.

  • Ariel view of the parking lot full of cars. Busy Farm inviting the community to one of our public events. c

    Visit the Farm

    Plan your visit to Homesteads for Hope! Explore our u-pick fields, farm store, live music, and seasonal events. Volunteer, take a class, or book a guided tour in advance. Open to the public during farm store hours or special events. Come grow with us—just minutes from downtown Rochester!

    Outside of events and classes, we are open to the public during our farm store hours:
    Monday: CLOSED
    Tuesday: 10AM-6PM
    Wednesday: 10AM-3PM
    Thursday: 10AM-7ISH*
    Friday: 10AM-3PM
    Saturday: 10AM-2PM
    Sunday: CLOSED

    Although we LOVE visitors, if you’re seeking a tour or to speak to someone please make an appointment! Otherwise, join us in the store and at events - anytime!

    Learn More
  • Many people seated at picnic tables and camp chair watching live music behind the red barn on a Thursday night at the farm.

    Thursdays at the Farm

    Every Thursday from June 12 to September 25 | 5–8 PM

    Spend your Thursday evenings with us on the farm — live music, canal-side views, lawn games, good food, and great company. Bring a chair or blanket, pack a cooler, and enjoy a relaxed evening outdoors.

    The Farm Store will be open until 7pm, and public uPick is open from 5-7PM. There's plenty of space to explore, play, or just unwind. All are welcome — come as you are.

    See Music Line-up
  • Square Roots logo for our upcoming art show

    Square Roots Art Show

    Debuting during this year’s Blue Jean Ball, Square Roots is our very first show — a vibrant collection of small-format artworks. All are welcome to contribute! Whether you're an apprentice, staff member, volunteer, family member, or a supporter from the wider community — we invite you to submit original artwork for inclusion in our debut show for our seed & purpose gallery.

    All artwork will be available for online preview ahead of the event, and will be sold in person during the Blue Jean Ball for just $20 each. Every piece purchased supports the Farm’s mission to cultivate purpose, belonging, and opportunity for people of all abilities.

    Sept 1: Final deadline to drop off artwork
    Sept 4: Exhibit opens to the public (Thursdays at the Farm) & online
    Sept 26:Blue Jean Ball: all artwork available for purchase (in-person only)

    Learn More
  • Volunteering

    Volunteering

    At Homesteads for Hope, volunteers of all abilities are an essential part of what makes this place thrive. Whether you’re helping in the gardens, working alongside students and staff, or supporting special events, there’s always something to do — and your time makes a real difference.

    We welcome individuals, families, community groups, and corporate teams. You can join us for a single day or make volunteering a regular part of your routine.

    No experience needed — just a willingness to show up, get your hands dirty, and be part of something meaningful.

    Learn More
  • People with disabilities learning in the drum circle

    Apprentice Programs

    Embark on a journey of growth with us! Our inclusive class options, available 5 days / week, invite you to immerse yourself in the Community Farm Experience—where you’ll nurture your purpose in nature’s classroom.

    Hands-On Learning for Adults of All Abilities
    At Homesteads for Hope, adults 18+ can build skills, confidence, and community through hands-on learning at our working farm. From growing vegetables and caring for animals to making products, helping in the store, and cooking in our teaching kitchen — every activity is real, meaningful, and rooted in daily farm life.

    Our inclusive programs focus on what people can do — helping each person grow at their own pace in a supportive, welcoming environment.

    *Supported by Self Direction.

    Open Enrollment
  • Girl blowing bubbles surrounded by other kids playing cornhole along the canal during a Field Trip.

    Field Trip Fridays

    Join us every Friday from May through October for a hands-on, outdoor adventure designed for all ages and abilities! Whether you're a school group, homeschool family, caregiver crew, a senior group, or just curious about farm life, Field Trip Fridays at Homesteads for Hope offer a fun and inclusive way to explore, learn, and connect with nature.

    Each week, enjoy a mix of seasonal and sensory-friendly activities in our open-air classroom (the Farm!), including:

    - Farm-wide scavenger hunts (designed for all abilities)
    - Flower picking & veggie harvesting (seasonal)
    - Visits with our chickens, ducks, and goats
    - Fishing on the Erie Canal (bring your own pole & worms!)
    - Classic barnyard & canal-side games
    - Surprise activities and special guests throughout the season

    Learn More
  • 12 people kneeling and standing around a Kubota utility vehicle in a farm field holding a big check from Kubota and Celebrating the donation.

    Donate

    As a heart-driven, private 501(c)(3) nonprofit, our lifeline is the generous support from people like you. With every donation, grant, and visit to our farm, you help us keep our doors open wide to over 600 families. Your support means everything to us—it's the reason we can continue to serve, grow, and thrive together.

    Join our Mission and Vision for Supporting People with Disabilities in Nature’s Classroom

    We wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of hundreds of donations since our inception in 2013. Giving to Homesteads for Hope, Inc. you can see your donation in action through our people, families, and a canvas of innovation on the Farm. Your support keeps the lights on, supports our program experience, and moves mountains for families seeking more…

    Currently, our goal is to make our operations sustainable at the Farm through our programs, enterprises, and farming operations.

    Ways to Give
  • Blue Jean Ball Logo

    Blue Jean Ball

    We are delighted to invite you to a meaningful and elevated evening of celebration and community at Homesteads for Hope’s Annual Blue Jean Ball — held at our beautiful Community Farm along the scenic Erie Canal. This year’s Blue Jean Ball will be especially memorable as we celebrate the successful completion of our Pave the Way Campaign, and honor the remarkable accomplishments of our apprentices.

    Your presence supports more than an event — it helps us grow a movement. Together, we’re creating a world where individuals of all abilities are empowered to live with dignity, purpose, and joy.

    Your General Admission ticket includes Dinner, Open Bar, Dessert, Live Music & Dancing, Art & Silent Auction

    Tickets & Info
  • Flower UPick Flower Flyer

    Flower UPick

    Immerse yourself in the beauty of our flower fields at Homesteads for Hope, a Community Farm, just minutes from Rochester, NY. Our U-Pick Flower Garden is open to everyone—whether you're looking for a peaceful outing, craving some beautiful buds for your home, or in need of the perfect blooms for an upcoming celebration.

    Hours

    Thursdays | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    Saturdays | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

    Kids Cup
    $10

    Regular Pick
    $20

    Party Bucket Pick
    $50

    uPick Flowers
  • farm store mix of items in a handmade basket

    Rowdy Rooster Farm Store

    Tucked right in the heart of Homesteads for Hope, our charming little farm store is bursting with fresh-picked flavor, handmade treasures, and the spirit of community. The store is open to the public and we would love to see you!

    Monday: CLOSED
    Tuesday: 10AM-6PM
    Wednesday: 10AM-3PM
    Thursday: 10AM-7ISH*
    Friday: 10AM-3PM
    Saturday: 10AM-2PM
    Sunday: CLOSED

    Click Here

2185, Manitou Road, Rochester, NY, 14606

 

Our Staff Team

  • Jennyrae Brongo

    FOUNDER/CEO

    Jennyrae is the heart & soul of Homesteads for Hope, dedicated to providing families like her own a genuine sense of belonging. With a Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management Engineering, and 15 years of entrepreneurship, she's turning our vision into reality by spearheading the 55 acre development of Western New York's first Inclusive “Learn, Work & Live” intentional Community. Her true joy lies in constructing our dreams, for a better future for all families.

    Contact: Jenny@homesteadsforhope.org

    585.352.4673 Ext. 105

  • Chris Krivanek

    FARM MANAGER

    Chris is the man behind the scenes. He works tirelessly to plan, organize, and grow our nature based classroom with our wonderful produce here at Homesteads for Hope. Chris can be found working from dawn until dusk behind the wheel of a tractor, sometimes with a pint of mint chocolate cookie ice cream during the busy season. Chris takes great pride in growing only the best produce and teaching our apprentices along the way.

    Contact: Chris@homesteadsforhope.org

    585.352.4673 Ext. 108

  • Ann Saylor

    OFFICE & HR MANAGER

    Ann has been part of the Homesteads for Hope family since the beginning. Best friends with co-founder Luann Brown and employed at the gravel pit Jennyrae owned, it was just a natural fit for Ann to come over to Homesteads for Hope and become the Office Manager, Human Resources, and head of accounting. Ann can be found jamming to music and getting the job done no matter what.

    Contact: Ann@homesteadsforhope.org

    585.352.4673 Ext. 101

  • Alexis Manuel

    OPERATIONS MANAGER

    Alexis joined Homesteads for Hope after showing up for an event and just so happened to sit behind Jennyrae. She tapped Jennyrae on the shoulder to ask what Homesteads for Hope was, and immediately asked how she could help. After spending the summer volunteering in the Harvest Pizza Grill and the Blue Jean Ball, she was offered a job running the enterprises around the farm, including running events, weddings, and volunteer coordination. There is a running joke about how Alexis should just bring a mattress with her to work and move in since she is always here.

    Contact: Alexis@homesteadsforhope.org

    585.35.4673 Ext. 109

  • Nora Venezky

    Development Director

    Nora comes to Homesteads for Hope from the small museum field and is excited to support the grant writing and fundraising efforts of the organization. She loves local history and the history of the Erie Canal, feel free to quiz her about it anytime! She loves being outside and in nature and can be found hiking on the weekends. She is excited to work with existing funders and donors to learn what they love about Homesteads for Hope and share her passion for the organization with anyone who will listen.

    Contact: Nora@HomesteadsforHope.org

    585.352.4673 Ext. 112

  • Abbey Pikuet-Orchard

    PROGRAM COORDINATOR

    Abbey brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to Homesteads, backed by her degrees in childhood and special education, alongside a psychology minor from St. John Fisher University. Her journey began early, supporting her sister with developmental disabilities, driving her commitment. With 5.5 years at a local agency, Abbey played a pivotal role in providing essential services to individuals alike. Driven by her experiences, she's on a mission to foster inclusivity in Rochester, tirelessly working to create brighter futures. Fun fact: Abbey has been involved in the world of competitive cheerleading for 16 years and never imagined she would have a pair of muck boots in her closet!

    Contact: abbey@homesteadsforhope.org 585.352.4673 ext 103

  • Shannon Russell

    CULINARY COORDINATOR

    Shannon loves cooking and all things food related. She loves teaching people about eating seasonally & locally while getting recipe inspirations from all over the globe. For Shan, the learning never ends - she decided to go back to school for Nutrition in 2023 as an extension of her current career. Shannon has worked in many capacities of the food industry over the past 20 years, working for great restaurants and dabbled in personal chef work, but ultimately wanted to pivot her career in a meaningful, impactful way, thus, Homesteads.

    Shannon enjoys making food creatures out of oddly shaped produce, so she will fit right in. Ask to see a picture of her creations!

    Contact: shannon@homesteadsforhope.org

  • Therese Flannery

    PROGRAM COORDINATOR

    Therese has been a longtime follower of Homesteads for Hope and after spending years in the education field makes an excellent addition to the team. She takes great pride in her work and is so proud to be a part of the Apprentices journey’s. Therese has a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and a Minor in Children’s Psychology. Therese has also fallen in love with the chickens on the property and is lovingly referred to as our Chicken Tender.

    Contact: Therese@homesteadsforhope.org

    585.352.4673 Ext. 111

  • Jane Elder

    FARM ASSISTANT

    Jane came to the farm in 2024 for our first year of our Care Farming Training Program! She is using this program to kick start her career as a farmer and hopes to open her own Care Farm in the future. Jane has been in charge of a lot of the flower operations this year and has loved it so much, she plans to continue flower farming in the future! She loves all aspects of working on the farm team but her favorite thing to do is harvesting all of the beautiful produce and getting to hand it off to each of our lovely customers and members at our CSA pick-ups! Outside of work, you can find Jane working on her latest art project, rock climbing, or camping!

  • Marketing Coordinator

    Beth Sumner

    MARKETING COORDINATOR

    Hi, I’m Bee. My background spans technical support, web and graphic design, branding, marketing, and photography, giving me a unique mix of tech-savvy problem-solving and artistic vision. Outside of work, I’m a self-proclaimed nerd who enjoys gaming, anime, and storytelling. I love exploring fantastical worlds in books, RPGs, and strategy games, which often spark inspiration for my creative projects. You can also find me hiking, cooking, painting, or experimenting with woodworking and crafting with natural elements like driftwood and sea glass. At heart, I believe creativity is a way to connect, inspire, and spark imagination—whether through design, storytelling, or the little things that make life brighter.

    Contact: beth@homesteadsforhope.org

    585.352.4673, x107

  • Barbara Hull

    FARM ASSISTANT

    Barb came to Homesteads for Hope as a dedicated volunteer back in the beginning. While she started as a farm assistant, she has also worked with programs to help bring the farm inside during the winter. When Barb is not working, she spends time nurturing her own gardens, vegetables and spending valuable time with her grandchildren and family

  • Steve V.

    FARM ASSISTANT

    Steve is another Homesteads for Hope success story. Steve worked very hard to gain the skills needed to be a farmer and he takes great pride in everything farm related. Steve helps run the CSA pickups and loves telling people about the produce we grow here. Steve will often be found right next to Farmer Chris ready to get out to the fields.

  • George & Kate

    EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR

    George and Kate are Farmer Chris’ dogs and they are the best behaved employees. They run chicken security and are certified hug therapists. George will take payment in pets and Kate loves to give kisses whether you want them or not.

    George sadly passed away in 2025. We will miss him and his vibrant personality forever.

  • Clark

    EXECUTIVE SMILE BRINGER

    Meet Clark! The newest addition to our team. From the puppy breath, the snuggles, the stealing shoes, and learning the farm, Clark has an important position here at Homesteads. Taking payment in the form of belly rubs, he’s the best new sidekick to Farmer Chris