NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Meaningful, quality jobs are not always available to people with disabilities. Even harder to find are jobs where they can work alongside people without disabilities.
"Of the 20% who are working, 80% of those are in a sheltered workshop setting where they're only working alongside people with disabilities," said Nathan Fields, co-founder of Plant For A Change. "What Plant for a Change is really passionate about, and what we hope to offer is people with and without disabilities benefit from one another."
We were so encouraged by the mission at Plant For A Change.
The seed business aims to create an eco-focused workforce that includes everyone.
Feeling fortunate that I get to introduce you to Plant For A Change tonight. These inclusive seed farmers are trying to create a more sustainable state while building a workplace where all people can thrive. @plantforachange #Nashville @NC5 pic.twitter.com/dbVzW8Cc4t
— Hannah McDonald (@HannahMcDonald) March 7, 2025
We visited the small, urban farm where Plant For A Change harvests most of its native seeds and packages them for sale.
Jason Van Wulven was recently hired. He's hit the ground running.
"From day one, he has just like flourished in this capacity," Fields said.
Van Wulven brings so much to the table, including his ability to connect with others and concentrate on important tasks, like filling hundreds of seed packets.
"We have so much to benefit from when people with and without disabilities are in community together," Fields said.
Van Wulven and Fields met eight years ago at Vanderbilt University. Fields was earning his master's at the time, and Van Wulven was a student in the Vanderbilt Next Steps program, a four-year certification program for students with intellectual disabilities. They were matched as Best Buddies.
"The farming community, both locally and nationally, really welcomed us and supported us in learning because we have a lot to learn. We're learning alongside each other. I never thought I would go into a career as a farmer. Did you, Jason?" Fields said. "No," Van Wulven said.
Since Van Wulven joined the team, the farming income has tripled, and production has quadrupled.
The team packs five varieties of seeds that are native to Tennessee. Their products can be purchased from 21 local vendors and on their website.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at hannah.mcdonald@newschannel5.com.
Shred the gnar with Patrick - the snowboarding lawyer that will remind you not to take things too seriously! His cheeky, cheerful attitude is contagious. His only complaint? The lack of chairlifts at the Tennessee State Capitol of course. Watch his story for an instant pick-me-up on a frigid day.
-Rebecca Schleicher
