Work Training, Skills Building,
and Community Engagement Center
Why the Center?
Meaningful work builds a sense of pride, independence, and happiness.
Yet, many adults with developmental differences face:
- Limited job opportunities
- Isolating or unstimulating environments
- A lack of community inclusion
The Imagine Center Farm offers a life-affirming alternative that aims to build one’s skills in the service of increasing independence and improving overall quality of life, and reducing any behavioral concerns.
Our Mission
Through aggressive skills-building programs.
- Develop vocational skills in agriculture, animal care, culinary arts, construction, and entrepreneurship
- Support adaptive behavior development (communication, daily living, motor, and social skills)
- Foster meaningful community engagement
- Promote physical and emotional well-being
- Deliver daily recreation and social connection
About the Farm
A scenic 70-acre farm in the Irish Hills featuring:
- 2 barns, greenhouse, café/store (“casita”), workout area
- Horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, ducks, chickens, peacocks, cats, and a golden retriever
- Trails, creek, lake access, orchard (in progress), and crop fields
- A tranquil environment that supports mental health, physical activity, and nature-based healing
Jessica’s Story:
A Personal Inspiration
Dr. Michael Behen’s daughter, Jessica, lives with complex developmental challenges. After struggling in conventional programs, she began working on the farm — and thrived.
Now:
- She works 40 hours/week with support
- Lost over 30 pounds and gained strength
- Developed daily living and work skills
- Speaks and smiles more
- Uses tools independently
- Found friendship, confidence, joy and diminish problem behaviors
Her journey proved that the dream works — and now it’s available to others.
Who We Are
Dr. Michael E. Behen, PhD – Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, CEO
Dr. Koyonne Mims, PhD – Clinical Psychologist, COO
Together with a team of psychologists, social workers, builders, and animal/agricultural experts, we run a highly specialized and heart-driven program.
All services are individualized, monitored by professionals, and implemented with compassion, expertise, and purpose.
What We Offer
Vocational Domains
Animal Care
feeding, grooming, barn maintenance
Agriculture
planting, harvesting, greenhouse tasks
Construction
farm repair, painting, light building tasks
Domestic Skills
cooking, café operations, cleaning
Entrepreneurship
farmers market, store inventory
Community Life
dances, music, bonfires, art, more
Join the Farm!
Now hiring individuals with developmental differences Daily & seasonal programs available
Transportation provided
- Call: (313) 631-8853 or (313) 354-3920
- Email: mebehenphd@gmail.com
- Register: Farm Registration Form
- Fax:(313) 656-4053
A Place to Belong
“We believe that everyone deserves the chance to feel productive, make friends, and live a life full of meaning, movement, and joy.”
Come visit us. Walk the farm. Meet the team. See what’s possible.