Helping Homeless & Addicted Veterans
Back Into Civilian Life
Only “farm” in name, the DV Farm is much more
than it appears on the outside.
DV Farm Septic System
DV Farm, Inc. property was built MANY years ago as well as things like the septic system. Although we had problems with the septic system, we were unaware of how bad it truly was until recently when we found out that we need to redo the entire septic system for today’s coding and safety. Unfortunately, DV Farm, Inc. does not have the funds to cover this right away and it is hindering operations for us, to find out more please click the “More Info” button where you can also help us to get the funds needed for this huge undertaking!
What Is The DV Farm?
Animal Assisted Therapy
From goats to chickens to ducks and horses, the DV Farm has animals galore! Thanks to DV Recoil [Dysfunctional Veterans Mod] we also have a dog named Tank for the “Veteran House” that you will be able to have the pleasure of getting to know. Along with being able to “talk” with the animals, you will be required to feed and take care of the animal upkeep IE: Clean stalls, shovel manure, etc. Some of these may require labor of you as well.
Synopsis
DV Farm is a US 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by former homeless Veteran, Michael Rivers. Operated by Vets for Vets, the DV Farm provides practical rehab for homeless and addicted Veterans via a combined program of housing, animal assisted therapy, a structured work schedule and the camaraderie of fellow Vets working together to reintegrate back into civilian life.
Housing
At the DV Farm, we provide housing to every Veteran that is in the program on location. You will have a room [usually with another Veteran] in the “Veteran House.” The house is completely furnished and has a full kitchen and bathroom. We also have internet and television. While this is wonderful, you are expected to work with your housemates to ensure a clean and comfortable living environment.
Structured Work Schedule
Although there is a misconception about the DV Farm being a WORKING FARM, we do have some days you will be required, and expected, to do some labor intensive work. This can include anything as small and up to weed-eating, mowing, digging [ditches, post holes, etc.], moving wood, and any number of other things to help make the DV Farm a better place for yourself, the Veteran, and those after you as well as the living conditions for the animals.
Camaraderie
Just like every other place you will and have visited, here at the DV Farm — you’re expected to get along with your fellow brothers. Whether you’re younger or older, Air Force or Marines, you should not have any quarrels with anyone at the DV Farm. If a problem arises, be an adult and talk or walk away. You’re here to learn to take responsibility and to handle things like a grown-up should.
What Makes The
DV Farm?
Fundraising
Most of the present funds that makes DV Farm continue comes from public donations and donations from a few companies (many that are Veteran Owned and/or Operated). DV6 (a.k.a. Mike Rivers) takes a road trip every year to help raise funds. Many of our fundraisers are done through social media by supporters which, coupled with Smile Amazon, makes up a huge portion of our donations. The rest is from fundraisers and donations made throughout the year.
Mission
At the DV Farm, our mission is to take our homeless and addicted Veterans off of the streets and help them transition back into civilian life. From animal therapy to responsibility, we give them the tools to help fix the problems while making sure their toolbox is always full. The Veterans are also expected to work which entails some labor. From feeding and upkeep of animals to yard and forestry work.
[A little hard-work never hurt anybody!]
Community
As Veterans, we signed an Oath and it never runs out. So is the case with the DV Farm as well. We absolutely love helping and interacting with the local community Throughout the years, we’ve worked with many organizations around the community in New Hampshire including colleges, those with Down Syndrome, and much more. Building a relationship with the community helps the Veterans with the recovery process and make connections.
Meet The DV Farm
Mike Rivers
Founder
Martha Rivers
Administration and Financials
Gabby Sue
DV Farm Macaw
Storm
DV Farm Doggy
Tank
DV Farm Doggy with his Ducky
Ashland
DV Farm Horsey
“I would absolutely love to be put out of a job tomorrow, that would be the absolute ultimate goal.”
– Betsey Mercado, Co-Founder & Executive Director of Objective Zero
Phone
603-354-8035
info@dvfarm.org
Address
14 Whitney Stage Road Gilsum, NH 03448