Auburn Hills, MI – Dutton Farm has received a $246,445 grant from the Auburn Hills Tax Increment Finance Authority to renovate its offices and establish a computer and digital learning lab on Oakland University’s West Campus.

The investment will expand workforce development opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Oakland County and surrounding communities. The new space will serve as a centralized hub for job readiness and digital learning. It will provide training in technical and professional skills needed in today’s workforce.

The lab will include adaptive learning tools and immersive technology, such as augmented and virtual reality, to support hands-on, accessible instruction.

“This partnership represents what is possible when communities come together to create opportunity,” said Jenny Brown, CEO of Dutton Farm. “We are not only investing in technology—we are investing in people, in potential, and in a future where individuals with disabilities are fully included in our workforce and our communities.”

Dutton Farm began as a family-led effort and now serves more than 150 adults across Southeast Michigan. Its programs focus on adult education, workforce development, supported employment, and community engagement. The expansion comes as the need for workforce programming remains high. In Michigan, about 81% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed. At the same time, local employers continue to face workforce shortages.

The Auburn Hills project aims to help close that gap.

Through the new hub, Dutton Farm will:

  • Provide job readiness and digital skills training
  • Offer technology-based workforce development experiences
  • Strengthen partnerships with local employers
  • Expand access to employment opportunities for area residents

The organization will also work with school districts, workforce agencies, and community partners to build clear pathways to employment.

City officials said the project supports both economic growth and community inclusion. “This investment reflects our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive workforce,” said Andrew Hagge, Executive Director of the Auburn Hills Tax Increment Finance Authority. “Dutton Farm’s work not only empowers individuals, but also helps meet the growing needs of our local business community.”

The training hub, located on Oakland University’s West Campus, is designed as a collaborative model that connects education, technology, and employment.

“It’s our expectation that Dutton Farm will endeavor to place as many of its participants in businesses throughout Auburn Hills,” added Auburn Hills City Manager Tom Tanghe.

Dutton Farm said the expansion advances its mission to support adults with developmental disabilities in building independent, meaningful lives.  Learn more about Dutton Farm at https://duttonfarm.org/

 

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