Turning east onto dusty County Road 66 in Wellington, Colorado, Jorda didn’t know what to expect of his first experience in a recovery program. What he found at Harvest Farm surprised him. Participants graduating at record rates; 93% remain in stable housing a year later. As part of the New Life Program, men focus on breaking the cycles of addiction, homelessness or both. Over the course of nine months to one year, they receive counseling, develop critical life skills, obtain sustainable housing and jobs and, generally, find solace in life and work on the farm.
Harvest Farm Tour
“Pulling in, you’re greeted by Charlie the llama,” a white and gray, wooly camelid who strides up to the fence near the front office and makes friends with those who stop to visit – or simply park nearby.
Close-up shot of a white and gray llama peering over a fence at Harvest Farm in Wellington, Colorado
Then, about 15 to 20 staff and program participants formed an impromptu line and introduced themselves to the 26-year-old Larimer County resident. Behavioral Health Services is using only first names of participants to protect their privacy.
“It was very, very, very welcoming,” he said, and a stark contrast to the institutional recovery center he imagined. So he settled in for the journey ahead.
“I just showed up and trusted God to take the wheel.”
Jorda is one of 75 men who, as of mid-October 2025, live and work on the 100-acre farm and recovery center operated by the Fort Collins Rescue Mission, under the umbrella of the Denver Rescue Mission.
“It does work. This place works,” said Roger, who took a break from tending to grapefruit, green beans, tomatoes, peppers, and onions in the greenhouse to share some of his story. “This is a good place for anyone who wants to straighten up.”