On September 16, 2026, Autism Sanctuary had the privilege of welcoming two dedicated teams of volunteers from the University of Virginia for the United Way Laurence E. Richardson Day of Caring: 5 Central UVA Medical Center and UVa Business Services.
Day of Caring brings neighbors together across our region to support local non-profits, and this year’s UVA crews brought incredible energy, grit, and generosity to the farm.
Prepping the High Tunnel for Fall & Winter Plantings
One crew set to work inside our agricultural high tunnel—the core growing space where the Sanctuary engages in year-round horticultural learning and vocational skill-building. Volunteers cleared out spent summer vegetation, weeded and amended the soil, and prepped the beds for upcoming fall and winter plantings. Thanks to their hard work, our farmers will have nutrient-rich, ready-to-plant rows for cool-weather greens, roots, and herbs throughout the colder months.
Rehabilitating Pasture & Clearing Field Debris
Out in the open, the second crew took on demanding physical work in an overgrown field currently undergoing long-term land rehabilitation. Volunteers tackled downed timber, brush piles, and years of accumulated storm debris—clearing heavy branches and hauling logs so the ground can be restored for rotational grazing, accessible nature trails, and outdoor sensory programming.
Community, Connection, and Farm Life
Between loads of wood and wheelbarrows of soil, volunteers also took time to tour the property and meet the Sanctuary’s herd of cattle. Having community members invest their time and sweat into our farm directly strengthens our mission: creating a peaceful, purposeful agricultural community where autistic adults belong and thrive.
A huge thank you to everyone from 5 Central UVA Medical Center and UVa Business Services, as well as the United Way of Greater Charlottesville for making this day possible!
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