We’re excited to share that Autism Sanctuary was featured this week on 29News (WVIR-TV)! Reporter Aila Miyabi visited our farm in Western Albemarle to see firsthand how our state-licensed day support program meets adults with autism where they are—creating a joyful, supportive environment where personal growth and learning never stop.
The segment spotlighted an urgent challenge facing families: after age 22, when public school entitlements conclude, day support opportunities for adults with autism can be very limited. Executive Director Olivia Bruno explained that some participants drive up to 50 minutes each way to attend Autism Sanctuary because dedicated, high-support programs in natural settings are so difficult to find.
Director of Adult Services Izzy Kueser shared how our team collaborates with each participant and their entire support circle to develop individualized goals that build real-world skills, foster independence, and nurture meaningful friendships—both on the farm property and through regular community engagement across Charlottesville and Crozet. “Knowing that we’ve created a place where they all feel truly valued and loved and have fun is super meaningful,” Izzy shared. “It makes me want to come out every single day.”
From tending gardens and planting crops to making music and caring for our cattle, daily activities give everyone space to explore their interests and build on their strengths. As Olivia noted, the greatest reward is seeing members bloom over time:
“The best thing about working at the Autism Sanctuary is seeing the growth that they experience from starting in our programs, the new skills that they learn, the behaviors that they overcome, and just the sense of belonging and purpose that they grow into while just spending time at the Sanctuary and being supported by our staff and their peers.”
We are deeply grateful to Aila Miyabi and the 29News newsroom for uplifting our participants and sharing our care farm model with the wider Central Virginia community.
Watch the full feature on 29News →
Want to help expand access to farm-based day support for more families? Learn more about our programs, explore careers & volunteer opportunities, or support our mission.
Featured image: Autism Sanctuary participant feeding and visiting cattle in the pasture. Video and photography courtesy of 29News (WVIR-TV).