Our Staff

Strong relationships are the foundation of our program. Our Direct Support Professionals work closely with Growers to build trust, encourage independence, and provide consistent support. The Farm is a place where Growers feel safe to try new things, build friendships, and be themselves. We believe that meaningful relationships create meaningful outcomes.

Our Farm offers a welcoming space where Growers are respected, included, and celebrated for who they are. Everyone has a role, a voice, and a place to belong.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Colby Zimmerman - Executive Director

Colby’s journey at Hope Springs Farm began in 2015 as a Direct Support Professional. From the very beginning, he fell in love with the animals, the mission, and most importantly, the Growers. Working side-by-side with individuals each day gave him a deep understanding of the heart of the program and the importance of meaningful, relationship-based support.

In 2017, Colby stepped into the role of Program Specialist, followed by a promotion to Supervisor in 2018. By the end of that same year, he became Program Director, continuing to grow alongside the Farm and the community it serves.

In 2021, Colby accepted the role of Executive Director during one of the most challenging periods in the organization’s history. Tasked with reopening the program amid the pandemic, he led with resilience and commitment—ensuring Hope Springs Farm continued providing the highest quality services to Growers while fostering a supportive and accepting work environment for staff.

Colby understands what it means to be “boots on the ground.” Despite his leadership role, you can still find him riding the lawnmower, working in the pastures, and spending time alongside Growers whenever he gets the chance. His hands-on leadership style reflects his belief that the Farm’s strength lies in its people and the meaningful work they do together.

Mindy Reed - Program Director

Mindy joined Hope Springs Farm at the beginning of 2020 as a Direct Support Professional, bringing with her an extensive background in Special Education and Early Learning Supports. She has always been passionate about teaching and helping others build meaningful skills, and the combination of animal care and gardening felt like the perfect blend of everything she loves.

In 2021, Mindy stepped into the role of Animal Facilitator, where she quickly showcased her creativity and organization. She developed engaging activity calendars and designed unique sensory experiences that enriched daily programming and brought new energy to the Farm.

When the Program Director position became available in 2023, Mindy was confident in her vision for the program’s future. She embraced the opportunity to lead with positivity, creativity, and intention—developing thoughtful schedules and learning how to create a supportive environment where staff feel encouraged to learn and grow.

Mindy has continued to flourish in her leadership role, constantly seeking new ways to uplift both Growers and staff. Her dedication to innovation, teamwork, and meaningful experiences strengthens the program each day and reflects her deep commitment to the Hope Springs Farm community.

Cate Tershak - Behavior Services Director

Cate joined Hope Springs Farm in 2019 as a Direct Support Professional, originally thinking she was stepping into a short-term summer position after completing her Master’s degree. It didn’t take long for her to realize the Farm was much more than a temporary stop — it was a place where she could make a lasting impact.

In 2020, Cate transitioned into the role of Program Specialist, and in 2021 she was promoted to Supervisor. By the end of that year, she shifted her focus to pursue her true passion: Behavior Services. Dedicated to expanding her expertise, Cate began working toward a subsequent Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, which she successfully obtained last year.

As Behavior Services Director, Cate believes the Farm provides a unique and powerful environment for individuals to grow, develop, and thrive. She is passionate about being in the field, working directly with Growers and staff to create meaningful, individualized supports. Her research interests focus on how Applied Behavior Analysis can best serve adult clients, as well as developing innovative programs and strategies tailored to the population Hope Springs Farm supports.

Cate’s commitment to both compassionate care and evidence-based practice strengthens the Farm’s mission and ensures Growers receive thoughtful, high-quality behavioral support.

Amanda Ream - Administrative Director

Amanda’s journey at Hope Springs Farm began in 2016 when she volunteered in search of additional fieldwork experience. What she found was much more than experience — she fell in love with the Growers, the animals, and the mission of the Farm. That passion led her to join the team full-time as a Direct Support Professional in early 2017.

By the summer of 2017, Amanda stepped into the role of Animal Facilitator, and in 2018 she was promoted to Supervisor. Later that year, she became Community Coordinator, where she expanded community partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and outings for Growers — creating new and meaningful experiences beyond the Farm.

In 2021, during the uncertainty of the pandemic shutdown, Amanda took on the challenge of serving as Program Director while continuing to coordinate community activities. Through persistence, long hours, and collaboration with the management team, she helped rebuild and strengthen the program with innovative ideas that allowed it to thrive once again. She also scheduled and coordinated the Farm’s events and fundraisers during this time.
In 2023, Amanda transitioned into the role of Administrative Director, focusing on strengthening the operational foundation of Hope Springs Farm. She implemented improved systems for record keeping, employee training, and Grower admissions, while also coordinating the intern program with local colleges. Working behind the scenes in social media, marketing, and advocacy, she often serves as the Farm’s spokesperson — passionately sharing its mission and impact with the community.
Amanda has truly done a little bit of everything. Her love and dedication to Hope Springs Farm are evident any time she speaks about it, and her commitment continues to help the organization grow and flourish.

Meet Our Farm Program Team

At Hope Springs Farm, every employee begins their journey as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). This foundation is essential to who we are as an organization. By working directly alongside our Growers, staff develop a deep understanding of the relationships, responsibilities, and meaningful moments that make the Farm such a special place. As team members grow within the organization, many step into additional roles that carry important responsibilities behind the scenes—ensuring our program continues to thrive.

Area Facilitators guide the daily function of each program area, including animals, garden, grounds, woodshop, cooking, crafting, community outings, events, and transportation. They design thoughtfully planned schedules, create engaging and innovative activities, and ensure each space is organized and well cared for. Their creativity and attention to detail help bring new ideas to life while ensuring every program area not only functions smoothly but flourishes.

Supervisors play a vital role in supporting our staff. They regularly check in with Direct Support Professionals, offering guidance, encouragement, and compassion. Their leadership ensures our team feels supported while maintaining the high-quality care and programming our Growers deserve.

Program Specialists serve as team leaders for Grower support meetings and are responsible for data tracking and maintaining the records that help us monitor progress and provide individualized support. Their work ensures that every Grower’s goals, achievements, and needs are thoughtfully documented and supported.

Skills Trainers work closely with students through our partnership with OVR, helping them build the skills needed for employment and everyday life. Through hands-on experiences at the Farm, students gain confidence, responsibility, and practical workplace skills in a supportive environment.

Each member of our team brings something unique to the Farm, but they all share the same foundation—direct, compassionate support for our Growers. These dedicated professionals demonstrate their passion for our mission every day through their leadership, their heart, and their unwavering commitment to helping our community grow.