Altadena, CA — On Saturday, November 3rd, 2007, the gates to the most unique facility of its kind in the country will open thanks to the dedication and passion of former LA Dodger pitcher Jim Gott and his wife Cathy. For the past two years the Gott’s have worked tirelessly to create Danny’s Farm — a very unique petting zoo and events facility designed for children affected with autism and special needs. While Danny’s Farm was founded to be a special place for special children, it is open to children from all walks of life, with or without disabilities. It is a place for the most exciting birthday parties, events or just interactive field trips which everyone can enjoy.

The Gott’s, who have two sons with autism, have dedicated  themselves to bettering the lives of children affected with autism. For them, the opening of Danny’s Farm is a dream come true. But, more importantly, it’s a dream come true for the thousands of special needs children in the Los Angeles area who will now have the most amazing place to call their own — a place to come and interact with the gentlest of creatures from donkeys to bunnies,  lambs to pot belly pigs, all who are very lucky to call Danny’s Farm their home as all the animals on “the farm” have been rescued or have special needs themselves. (Read about each of the barnyard resident’s own special story at www.dannysfarms.com)

The Department of Developmental Services was instrumental in realizing the Gott’s dream when they came on board with the additional funding necessary to create Danny’s Farm. The Department of Disabilities is committed to assisting individuals with special needs as they transition from youth to adulthood creating employment opportunities providing these maturing individuals a purposeful role. Danny’s Farm does just that. Not only is it the most wonderful facility for birthday parties, special events and field trips, Danny’s Farm is also staffed by young adults with special needs.

Danny’s Farm is open by appointment only and is completely handicapped accessible. The staff is fluent in sign language. Danny’s Farm is located at 3064 Ridgeview Drive in Altadena, CA. For more information and to schedule a special event, birthday party or field trip call (626) 797-FARM (3276) or visit www.dannysfarm.com

About autism: Once considered a rare disorder, today autism is estimated to affect as many as 1 in every 150 children. A child is diagnosed with autism every 20 minutes. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States. It is more prevalent than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric aides combined. (Reported by the Blue Ribbon Commission on Autism. For more information on autism, visit the Autism Society of America website at www.autism-society.org)

About Jim and Cathy Gott: Since his retirement from Major League Baseball, Jim and Cathy co-founded Education Spectrum, a special educational and developmental facility in Altadena, California serving individuals affected by autism. (www.edspec.org). Jim is still active with the LA Dodgers serving as a Member of the Dodgers Speaker Bureau.