At Sunshine Acres Farm in Hayes, Lori Balch and her husband Tom are building a therapeutic oasis for children and adults with special needs. Rooted in her own family’s journey, Balch uses gardening and animal care to teach vocational skills and independence.For Lori, the inspiration to cultivate a therapeutic and educational farm didn’t just happen overnight. It began in her own home with her son, Michael. After retiring from the military and working as a special education teacher, Lori and Tom were certified by the state as a residential home. Their son’s love for animals sparked the initial backyard farm which quickly grew to include chickens, ducks, turkeys and goats. As their garden expanded, neighbors and friends began purchasing their eggs and homemade goat milk soap. All sales are reinvested into building a dedicated Barn Education Center at Sunshine Acres Farm. “I enjoy teaching. I enjoy being able to make a difference in the lives of other families that also have family member...