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Health & Wellbeing

Recent reports indicate increasing health challenges among seniors and families in Sonoma County, driven in part by financial strain and social isolation. Sandy Loam seeks to address these issues through thoughtfully designed programs grounded in agriculture and nature that foster connection, belonging, and overall wellbeing.

In 2026, we are launching our Gathered Leaves Initiative, dedicated to fostering wellbeing for individuals and families with increased care needs. We are proud to bring the programs below to our community!

Belonging from the Start

Family Wellbeing:  This Infant & Caregiver Group Play serves families with children 0-5 years old, offering age-appropriate exploration of the natural world through guided activities such as garden play, animal visits, sensory discovery, and simple planting projects. Facilitated by Laura Temple, the program’s implementation will be supported by visiting health specialists and experts in related disciplines.

This program is brought to our community in partnership with Common Ground Society and is funded by First 5 Sonoma.

Register HERE.

Gathered Leaves Teahouse

Wellbeing for Seniors: Gathered Leaves Teahouse is a free bilingual program featuring nature, art, movement, tea, and community for older adults. Hosted by Sandy Loam in partnership with the City of Cotati and Sonoma County Ag + Open Space, the program connects older adults with one another and with conserved land close to home.

Just drop in!

Location: Veronda-Falletti Ranch, 175 West Sierra Ave, Cotati CA

Dates and Times: Fridays, 10:00–11:30 AM

  • Sep 18, 2026 — English
  • Oct 9, 2026 — Spanish
  • Nov 13, 2026 — English
  • Dec 4, 2026 — Spanish
  • Jan 8, 2027 — English
  • Jan 15, 2027 — Spanish
  • Feb 5, 2027 — English
  • Feb 12, 2027 — Spanish
  • Mar 5, 2027 — English
  • Mar 12, 2027 — Spanish
  • Apr 2, 2027 — English
  • Apr 9, 2027 — Spanish
  • May 7, 2027 — English
  • May 14, 2027 — Spanish
  • Jun 4, 2027 — English
  • Jun 11, 2027 — Spanish

This program is made possible through a partnership with the Ag + Open Space Sonoma County.

Gathered Leaves Livelihoods

Workforce Readiness Program: Sandy Loam works with young adults with neurodivergence, and developmental and intellectual disabilities through a specially designed workforce readiness program. Experienced staff guide participants in developing practical job skills and achieving personal, meaningful success through farm- and nature-based training. The program helps participants pursue their vocational goals while honoring each individual with grace, dignity, and skill, enabling them to develop personal interests and contribute meaningfully to their community.

This program is made possible through a partnership with the Ag + Open Space Sonoma County.