The Beverly Farm Foundation was established in 1897 by Dr. Smith and his wife. These founders were inspired to create an establishment that would specialize in care for those who are cognitively disabled, as they were related to people with similar disabilities. Dr. Smith and his wife originally began Beverly Farm Foundation for people of all ages, but later made the facility “adult-only”, as they believed that few places lacked services specifically to cognitively-disabled adults. After looking for a place to build it, they chose Godfrey, Illinois, which at the time was mostly farmland, but overall a good central location for families. Beverly Farm started out small, with only a few homes, but over time it kept growing as more families needed help and support with their loved ones.
Today, Beverly Farm serves about 260 residents with cognitive and developmental disabilities. Even though it has grown a lot since it first started, the main purpose is still the same: “Beverly Farm Foundation is a loving, caring home for adults with developmental disabilities, providing each individual with physical and emotional security and a dignified quality of life, with opportunities and challenges, within each individual’s functional capabilities.” The organization focuses on helping each person live as independently and meaningfully as possible based on their own abilities. Beverly Farm has been established for over 100 years, and it continues to grow into a more important part of the community for both the residents and their families each and every day.
On January 29, 2026, the RiverBend Growth Association Young Adults Committee was granted the opportunity to attend a “fun day” with the residents of the foundation. Upon the committee’s arrival, members of the Beverly Farm Foundation introduced themselves before the residents arrived at the Beverly Farm Development Training Center. These members of Beverly Farm also told the Young Adults Committee that residents of Beverly Farm are typically taken to the Development Training Center to complete tasks to earn a wage, similar to a job. However, on this specific day, the residents would be surprised with a “game day”. Prize tables were set up, and the game rules were explained to the committee members, as they were in charge of running the games. When the residents arrived, they were eager to play the games, and they also greeted the committee members. Their faces lit up with excitement when they were told that instead of working, they would have the opportunity to play bingo and trivia. The members of the Riverbend Growth Association were able to run both games, as well as participate in the games with the residents. This heartwarming experience allowed the committee to work alongside the residents, while getting the opportunity to witness their resilience, individual talents, and hear personal stories.
In the future, Beverly Farm Foundation plans to continue serving the community by providing a home to those who are cognitively disabled. Their plan is to continue the growth of their association by impacting the lives of citizens with disabilities. By furthering the social opportunities, homes, jobs, and therapy in their everyday lives, they will continue to strive to make an impact on their residents’ lives. By bringing in employees that deeply care about the residents, this organization will keep their mission driven towards the end goal of their future success.
Beverly Farm Foundation is always looking for volunteers to assist on their campus with simple daily tasks. If you are interested in volunteering for their foundation or are interested in finding more information about Beverly Farm Foundation, contact Alexis Weller at aweller@beverlyfarm.org, or visit their website: https://www.beverlyfarm.org.
About the Author:
Adyson Bunt is a senior at East Alton Wood River Community High School and has been an active member of the Riverbend Growth Association for two consecutive years. At EAWR, Adyson is a varsity sideline cheerleader, as well as a varsity competitive cheerleader. Aside from sports, Adyson has received Renaissance for her attendance and grades/grade point average multiple times, and is also an active member in other clubs and organizations such as Student Council, Big Sisters, National Honor Society, and Senior Mentors. After high school, she aspires to attend community college to obtain a degree in Nursing.
Landon Bomkamp is a senior at East Alton Wood River Community High School and has been an active member of the RiverBend Growth Association for two years. At EAWR, Landon is a member of hockey, golf, soccer, Renaissance, and the Honor Society. After high school, Landon plans to attend Florida Gulf Coast University to obtain a degree in Marketing and Sales Analytics.
Jace Burns is a junior at East Alton Wood River Community High School and has been an active member of the RiverBend Growth Association for one year. At EAWR, Jace has played varsity Track & Field and varsity Basketball. He is also a school board representative, secretary/ treasurer of Student Council, youth ambassador for the Wood River Business Alliance, Renaissance recipient, and a part of the Oilers LEAD Committee. After graduating high school, Jace plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy and pursue a career in aviation with a Bachelor of Science in aeronautics.
Eva Steiniger is a junior at East Alton-Wood River Community High School and is actively a first-year member of the RiverBend Growth Association. At EAWR, Eva has been involved in a variety of activities which include varsity soccer, Big Sisters organization, Student Council, Oilers LEAD committee, a youth representative for the Wood River Business Alliance, a multi-time Renaissance recipient, and plans on competitive cheerleading for her senior year. After graduating high school, Eva plans to attend the medical program of WashU in St. Louis. Missouri, earning a degree in pre-med. Another goal of Eva’s is to play on the women’s soccer team as she continues her education.
