2026 Annual Newsletter

Featured Story: New Possibilities - A Bittersweet Story

How do you feel when you try something for the first time? You might be filled with excitement and joy, or fear and anxiety.

No matter what you feel, the opportunity to experience something for the first time is a gift we should all get the opportunity to partake in. But for many individuals with autism, the opportunity to feel these emotions is suppressed.

Austin, a resident at Bittersweet Farms in Pemberville, is an incredible example of how trying something new can bring out the best in all of us. Nick Freyman, ICF Program Director who worked with Austin in a previous position, said, “Austin’s new living environment in Pemberville has been a great opportunity for him. It gives him more independence and new experiences. Overall, it’s been great for his well-being.”

Austin has gained new skills and experiences throughout his time at Bittersweet, including maintaining relationships with his fellow residents. “Austin is very social; he’s a social butterfly! His upbeat and go-with-the-flow attitude makes him who he is.” said Nick. Because of his attitude towards exploring new things, Austin has thrived in an environment that was previously unknown to him.

While Austin has had the opportunity to broaden his horizons at Bittersweet, many individuals with autism don’t have the opportunity to try new things. Bittersweet Farms’ philosophy allows individuals to be themselves, make mistakes, and to learn and grow from each and every opportunity they are met with. It’s this philosophy that explains why so many individuals with autism call Bittersweet their home, and will continue to for years to come.

Bittersweet Farms has always held a “participant-first” philosophy. This mantra is farm-wide. Every employee must maintain a “participant-first” mindset in order to be successful. By having a “participant-first” culture, Bittersweet Farms staff hold participants and staff accountable, allowing them to learn and grow from their oversights.