Local Students Grow Skills and Community at Rose Dairy Farm

Some Johnston County young people are getting hands-on experience, and making a difference, at Rose Dairy Farm. Through a partnership with Johnston County Parks and Open Space, Johnston County Public Schools, and JCI, the students are helping prepare the property for public use while learning valuable job skills. From fence work to spreading mulch, they’re gaining real-world experience that will carry into paid opportunities next year.

“It’s just fun mostly,” said one of the students, Owen Gilmore, 16. “It’s also good to help the community.”

JCI offers job training and other services to young people and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The public schools contract with JCI to provide vocational training for students.

“The whole point of this program is to learn work skills,” explained Mari Guzman, a training specialist with JCI.

The Triangle Land Conservancy purchased Rose Dairy Farm with plans to turn it over to Johnston County Parks and Open Space. Rose Dairy will remain a working farm while opening its trails and fishing ponds to the public. The park will also have picnic areas, wildlife viewing areas, and educational opportunities.

Participating students pose in front of an old farm building

Students working under an old structure with yellow wildflowers in bloom

Student smiles for photo on a very old and decrepit porch

Student wearing a hard hat and using a crowbar on a deck post

Wide shot of the old farm building in an lush, sunny landscape

Students and specialists taking a break in the shade