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Our Living Model:
Our Living Model:
A private tiny home with porch
Communal meals held in our dining hall (Dave's Diner)
Daily structure with flexibility and choice of activities
Access to trained staff for support and safety
A farm-based environment with access to full garden and animals
Life on the Farm
Life on the Farm
The farm is essential part of the operation. Not as required labor, but as an opportunity.
A full garden for growing and harvesting food and learning new skills
Livestock such as bees, chickens, turkeys and ducks with plans to expand in the future
Outdoor spaces that include nature trails and fire pit designed for accessibility, safety, and enjoyment
Engagement is always optional and adapted to individual needs and abilities.
The Founders
Meet Susan and David, the brains behind the operation. They are proud parents of a diverse family, including three children with intellectual disabilities. Their experiences navigating the educational and support systems inspired them to start Fireweed Farm. Drawing on their expertise and personal journey, they hope to create a supportive, inclusive space that benefits the entire community. The two high school sweethearts built their life and careers in education together, spanning K–12, college, and graduate-level teaching.
Susan Bennett-Armistead
Susan Bennett-Armistead
Susan holds a Ph.D. in education from Michigan State University. She is an associate professor emerita at the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development where she taught early literacy for 20 years. More importantly, she is a mother of seven kids from ages 11-35.
David Armistead
David Armistead
David earned his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Maine in 2023. He has dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher, principal, and head of school. His work reflects a deep commitment to both student growth and strong educational leadership.
Dawson & Marceline Armistead
Dawson & Marceline Armistead
Additionally, they have the help of their son and daughter-in-law, Dawson and Marceline, who bring their own experience with farming and group home management into the mix. They are excited to be part of this venture and contribute to the farm’s mission.
Next Steps
Next Steps
Fireweed Farm is an ongoing project that involves multiple steps of approval and careful planning. Many logistics still need to be addressed, and the full vision for the farm may take several years to come to life. We remain committed to each stage of the process, steadily working towards creating a space that will benefit the community for years to come.
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