A farm in Oroville is doing more than growing organic produce — it's creating real job opportunities for people with disabilities. New Two Farms founder and CEO Courtney Ellington, a service-disabled veteran, was recently recognized with the Far Northern Regional Center Committee Award for her work building an inclusive workforce in the community.
OROVILLE, Calif. — A local farm is doing more than just tending to its animals. New Two Farms is helping teens and adults with disabilities find meaningful life and career paths.
Tucked away in the fields of Oroville, New Two Farms is growing more than just organic produce. Founder and CEO Courtney Ellington says this mission is deeply personal.
As a service-disabled veteran, she knows firsthand how vital it is to offer unique opportunities and to have access to a supportive workspace. Ellington wants to create a place where people with disabilities can thrive.
"I know how important it is to need an employer who has accommodations to accommodate your disability so for us at New Two farms to provide that opportunity that there is a place for you," Ellington said.
The community-driven regenerative farm is home to everything from pigs and goats to some of the largest tortoises in the county. Ellington says the skills they learn here set them up for long-term success.
"We want them to be able to operate in society so they get their training here and they move on to better opportunities," Ellington said.
Action News Now Reporter Steve Grimes visited the farm to see how it creates pathways to purpose, independence and belonging. Ellington says everyone deserves to see what they are capable of achieving.
"They get the structure, they here on time they do a variety of jobs like mechanic to taking care of the animals to growing food that gives them a variety," Ellington said.
Ellington is now being recognized for her deep roots in community inclusion. The Arc of Butte County's Partners in Employment gave her the Far Northern Regional Center Committee Award, which recognizes employers who turn goals into real, practical community opportunities.
Laynee Dennis, supportive employment manager at Arc of Butte County, says the work is critical. She believes everyone deserves equal opportunities.
"It is so important that we have an inclusive community and those with disabilities have opportunities like everyone else," Dennis said.
Ellington says the farm helps individuals with physical limitations and restrictions, but also supports mental well-being. She wants the community to understand the importance of this work.
"Is the theory part seeing how good being out here makes people feel. I want the community to know that we need this is something that we need in the community for people to learn where their food comes from," Ellington said.
Ellington says by proving a diverse workforce creates a stronger workforce, she hopes to inspire other local businesses to plant the seeds of inclusion. New Two Farms serves both Oroville and Fresno County, offering hands-on agricultural training 7 days a week.
