Madison County’s Heartwarming Initiative: Next Step Farms
In the charming landscapes of Madison County, an inspiring project is blooming, thanks to the hard work and heart of Robin Kramer. As the founder and CEO of Next Step Farms, Kramer is dedicated to teaching life skills to adults with special needs through the engaging world of farming. After spending over 25 years as a special education teacher, she recognized a crucial gap in the community – the lack of opportunities for adults with special needs, especially those with lower cognitive abilities. These individuals often found it challenging to seek meaningful work or further their education, leaving many families feeling a bit lost and unsure.
A Journey from Classroom to Farm
Kramer’s journey began in the classroom, where she introduced practical skills into her curriculum with astonishing success. She even had a small market in her classroom and allowed live chickens to roam around, creating an immersive learning experience. With her principal’s support, she successfully used these hands-on methods to enrich her students’ lives. This innovative approach has now been transformed into an exciting venture at Next Step Farms.
The farm itself feels almost magical, housing 30 chickens, 10 goats, a dog, two pigs, a goose, a duck, and even an orchard along with 30 raised garden beds. Here, adults learn a variety of life skills, from canning and preserving to cooking and animal care. This rewarding initiative has welcomed over 30 clients in just three years, many of whom have achieved their personal goals and moved on to new adventures.
Why Alabama?
We sat down with Kramer to find out what makes her so passionate about giving back to Alabama. When asked about her favorite things about living in this state, she shared, “I love the laid-back Southern style.” She appreciates that the people in Alabama maintain close-knit connections, viewing neighbors as family. This wholesome atmosphere resonates deeply with Kramer and serves as a foundation for her work at the farm.
In addition to her passion for community, Kramer draws inspiration from her own mother. “My mom has such a kind, sweet, loving heart,” she said, emphasizing how her mother encourages the best in everyone around her. In a particularly humorous anecdote, Kramer described how her 77-year-old mother has grown fond of the two pigs, goose, and duck that were temporarily relocated to her home. It seems that every time Robin plans to move them back to the farm, her mother finds a way to delay the process, proving just how much she loves those animals!
The Splendor of Next Step Farms
According to Kramer, the most beautiful place in Alabama is actually Next Step Farms itself. “It’s 15 acres of rolling hills,” she said. “You can go out any time of day or night and just listen.” In those tranquil moments, surrounded by nature, she finds peace and solace. On tough days, her husband encourages a visit to the farm. Whether it’s reflecting on their successes or just seeking comfort, the farm serves as a haven for the couple.
A Taste of Alabama
When it comes to local food spots, Kramer highly recommends Tastees, a hot dog and sub shop on Jeff Road. “You’ve got to try the Nasty Dog,” Kramer insisted, which comes piled high with sauerkraut, mustard, and chili. For a unique twist, check out her favorite sub, the Tastee Lectable, featuring ham, cream cheese, and pepper jelly on a wrap.
Exploring Alabama’s Wine Trails
As Kramer dreams about future adventures, she revealed her desire to explore the wine trail in Alabama. With several wineries scattered across the state, she hopes to experience the beauty of Alabama’s back roads and discover hidden gems along the way.
A Message to the World
Lastly, Kramer shared an important message about Alabama: its people. “We have a caring heart,” she said, arguing that the state’s residents are often misunderstood by the media. Despite the stereotypes, she emphasized, “There are good people here. We’re rooted in faith and community, and together we’re making things better.”
Next Step Farms is a beacon of hope, support, and learning in Alabama, proving that with the right resources and dedication, adults with special needs can thrive. With Robin Kramer leading the charge, it’s clear that the farm is much more than just a place to learn; it’s a nurturing home for growth, connection, and love.
