WRITTEN BY CAITLIN M. DEWICKI
Photo by CR Productions
“Beauty in Diversity. Strength in Inclusion.”
EveryBody Inc. is a social enterprise created by Dutton Farm, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering adults with disabilities to live a life of purpose, inclusion, and dignity. Dutton Farm was established in 2010 out of love and respect for Becca Smither, daughter of Michele Smither and sister of Jenny Brown. This mother-daughter duo was inspired to develop a program to inspire and educate others, creating a world where everyone is valued and included, regardless of ability.
Photo by CR Productions - Pictured: Becca Smither
“Dutton Farm provides support to all our participants that attend our programs. We advocate to pledge for that loving opportunity of purpose, respect, dignity, and inclusion in our community.”
Photo by CR Productions
The Evolution of Dutton Farm
Dutton Farm, located in Rochester, Michigan is the foundation of EveryBody Inc., which emerged from a desire to provide opportunities for individuals with unique abilities. The farm serves as a sanctuary where adults with disabilities find purpose and community. Over 14 years, Dutton Farm has grown into an organization supporting over 150 individuals ranging from ages 26 to 74, with plans for expansion to meet the increasing demand for its services.
EveryBody by Dutton Farm has employed 15 people, provided 13,000 hours of employment, and shipped their products to 45 states. This has allowed financial freedom, independence, and dignity to individuals with developmental disabilities as well as providing economic stimulation to the community.
Photo by CR Productions
Their storefront, located in Pontiac, Michigan is home to many departments. Aside from selling their bath and body products, they also keep a balanced routine, participate in art therapy, and provide a 3 tiered program dedicated to developing the skills of their participants. Art therapy plus morning routines are ways to determine daily goals and provide meaningful engagement with others. Participants can build friendships during these activities in a room filled with music, colors, and fun.
Just beyond the art therapy walls is their dedicated production area. Every Thursday for 2 months a group of participants come to experience our assessment program at Everybody Inc, with the hope that one day a job in the community is a possibility. Dutton Farm offers three different programs that consist of Adult Education/Skill Building, Community Involvement and Workforce Development. Within these programs, participants learn to take pride and ownership in their tasks, participate in daily outings to become active members of the community, and discover employment opportunities to match their skills and desires.
Photo by CR Productions
“Dutton Farm is the “farmers” farm! All the farmers take part in learning skills through horticultural practices and animal therapy experiences.”
Products with Purpose
EveryBody Inc. crafts a diverse range of high-quality bath and body products, including candles, soaps, body butter, balms, bath bombs, oils, and scrubs. Guided by principles of inclusivity, each product bears the names of the adults who contributed to its creation.
From hand sanitizers during the pandemic to a comprehensive lineup of skincare essentials, their offerings reflect a commitment to excellence and empowerment. Woodward Corner Market stocks their hand soap, body oil, bar soap, body balm, body butter, lip balm, candles, sugar scrubs, body wash, and bath bombs.
Bridging Gaps, Building Bridges
Embedded within the community, Dutton Farm actively engages in outreach and volunteerism. They extend their impact beyond their facilities through partnerships with organizations like Fleece and Thank You, Meals on Wheels, and Forgotten Harvest. They also engage with the local school district integrating field trips to the farm where they learn about disabilities and responsibilities these adults have on the farm. Hosting events and welcoming visitors to the farm, they foster connections and raise awareness about their mission, creating a more inclusive society.
Photo by CR Productions
Another part of EveryBody Inc. is a coffee shop located in the McLaren Oakland Cafeteria. After the Covid shutdown, McLaren reached out to EveryBody Inc. in hopes their participants had an interest in running the coffee shop. Many of them who had previously worked at cafes and were excited about this opportunity. The community has expressed gratitude to the reopening of the coffee shop and this job has quickly become the favorite for many Dutton Farm participants.
“The participants of Dutton Farm are active members of the community and bringing awareness to our mission is what it’s all about!”
The Continuing Journey of Everybody Inc.
EveryBody Inc.'s journey is a testament to the transformative power of inclusion and empathy. As they continue to expand their reach and product offerings, their dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities remains unwavering. Through their work, they not only enrich the lives of their participants but also inspire communities to embrace diversity and celebrate the contributions of every individual.
Photo by CR Productions
You can find EveryBody Inc. by Dutton Farm bath and body care items in the gifting department at Woodward Corner Market!