About Us
Our mission is to create nurturing and empowering opportunities for individuals with disabilities through farm and community-based programs.
Sunrise Village is an Iowa-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the Quad Cities area. At the heart of what we do is community: creating welcoming spaces where individuals with disabilities—and members of the broader community—can come together. Through therapeutic horticulture, gardening, simple seasonal projects, and time outside, we build connection, belonging, and shared purpose—side by side.
At a Glance:
- Founded: 2017
- Status: Iowa-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit
- Current focus: Community-based therapeutic horticulture events
Vision
We envision a community where people of all abilities are valued and given the support they need to lead rich, purpose-filled lives.
What We Do
Therapeutic Horticulture Events (Seasonal, Community-Based)
Therapeutic horticulture uses plant- and garden-based activities to support wellbeing, confidence, connection, and skill-building in a supportive environment. Sunrise Village currently offers a few events each year, often centered on seasonal rhythms and outdoor activities that are approachable for people of many ability levels. These events are designed to bring together individuals with disabilities (children & adults), their families, volunteers, and community partners—building relationships through shared experiences.
Long-Term Strategic Vision
Sunrise Village’s long-term strategic planning includes a vision for an “agrihood”- a residential farm concept that would expand supportive opportunities for people with disabilities and other special needs in the Quad Cities. Over time, we hope to explore what it could look like to create a peaceful environment where individuals can enjoy time outdoors, participate in meaningful activities, and build community.
History
From Founder Kathy Fiscus:
In early 2013, we received the life-altering news that my second child, Cyrus, was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Phelan-McDermid syndrome. While learning about this syndrome, it became painfully apparent that he was always going to need a significant level of care. The thought of him living in a group home was terrifying, but I knew that I wouldn’t always be able to care for him. It was during this time that the idea was conceived to start a farm that would provide a home and community life for Cyrus and others with disabilities.
After connecting with other parents of disabled children, it was clear that we were all concerned about the availability of quality services. Motivated by the needs of our children and community, a group of families joined together in 2017 with the goal to increase quality of life for people with disabilities in the Quad Cities by creating a residential farm. With this shared vision, Sunrise Village was born.
The name “Sunrise Village” is inspired by Cyrus, which means “sun”, and “sunrise” elicits the feelings of hope that we strive to cultivate within our community.