Gathering Support

Transitions Counseling Program

This program is directed by the Farm’s Transitions Counselor under the supervision of the Clinical Team. The counselor works with team members in conducting an assessment of each guest.  Assessments include examining cognitive skills, vocational interests and readiness, and an educational profile. The program helps prepare guests for GED courses, personal enrichment activities and online educational, creative and special interest opportunities. Guests are always involved in the treatment planning and goal setting that will aid in their recovery, and transition planning is part of that process.  Recovery and transition are essential for the development of an independent life. 

Volunteer Leadership Program

Every year Gould Farm recruits 15 volunteers who come to the Farm for a period of one year and work in almost every area of the Farm community. They are generally referred by a diverse group of organizations and churches that includes the Brethren Volunteer Service, Action Reconciliation Service for Peace and AmeriCorps.  The Farm provides a nominal stipend, Room and Board, health insurance, and Social Security and Medicare benefits.  The energy, vitality and commitment of Gould Farm volunteers provide an invaluable contribut8ion to our mission and our guests..

The Activities Program

The Farm offers classes and workshops in pottery, painting, writing, yoga and other recreational activities guests may wish to pursue, and subsidizes 100 tickets every month to the local community center where guests swim, use the workout room, lift weights and participate in other classes and events that take place there. Every summer camping trips take off for areas in and around the Berkshires; guests attend movies, theater, lectures and bowling trips; vans take guests to the bookstores, malls, ski trips and places of historic interest.