Detroit-Area Nonprofit Known For Empowering Adults With Disabilities Moves Into Larger Facility

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, MI — A well-known Detroit-area nonprofit known for empowering adults with disabilities has a new facility.

Dutton Farm, which serves over 180 adults across Oakland and Macomb counties, moved into the former Anthem Church at 43785 Gratiot Avenue in Clinton Township on Monday.

The new 16,000-square-foot facility includes culinary training, horticulture, animal care, expanded arts and more.

Officials said the extra room will provide more opportunities for individuals to grow, and ultimately independence.

"I knew we had only touched the surface of what we could offer in Macomb County," Dutton Farm Chief Executive Officer Jenny Brown said. "We were limited by space — and that was not acceptable. There are hundreds of individuals waiting for opportunities like this, and we are committed to opening those doors."

Officials said the new culinary training program will prepare participants for real-world employment. The horticulture and animal care programs will focus on growth and responsibility.

The new art program will have a dedicated creative space equipped to spark artistic exploration and nurture entrepreneurial ambition, officials said.

"This space gives us the ability to dream bigger," Director of External Affairs and Development AnnMarie Ottoy said. "And more importantly, it allows our participants to do the same."

Dutton Farm has requested grant funding, which officials say will help the organization realize its full potential, including a complete commercial kitchen buildout.

"We anticipate this location will continue to grow as more individuals and families find us," Brown said. "It’s not growth for growth’s sake — it’s what happens when you refuse to leave people without a path forward."

Michele Smither founded Dutton Farm in 2010 with the belief that adults with disabilities deserve a life of purpose, inclusion and dignity.

She was inspired by her daughter Rebecca "Becca" Smither, who was born with Down syndrome, as well as the friends who found themselves without direction after completing school.

For more information about Dutton Farm and its services, visit www.duttonfarm.org.