Hiram Farm, a nonprofit working organic farm that provides meaningful work and a supportive community for adults with developmental disabilities, is excited to announce the appointment of Daren Houck as its new Executive Director.
Houck brings nearly three decades of experience in the nonprofit and education sectors, having held various leadership roles across the country. Over the last 29 years, he has spent 22 years in senior leadership positions, including 15 years leading nonprofit organizations. Throughout his career, working with neurodiverse children and adults has been a central focus. Most recently, Houck spent the last four years directly leading a school and transition program specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum.
“We are honored to welcome Daren to Hiram Farm,” said Amy Kalk, President of the Board of Directors. “His blend of nonprofit leadership, direct service with neurodiverse individuals, and deep roots in sustainable agriculture make him a perfect fit to lead our mission into the future.”
In addition to his leadership in education and nonprofit management, Houck has owned and operated Green Mountain Educational Consulting (GMEC) since 2010. GMEC helps nonprofits strengthen governance, strategic planning, mission alignment, and program development. He also ran Fox Run Farm in southern Vermont for ten years—an organic farm specializing in biodiversity and sustainable practices. Throughout his career, he has worked to implement or expand organic agriculture programs at schools nationwide.
“I am excited to return to Northeast Ohio and support the mission and vision of Hiram Farm,” said Houck. A graduate of Champion High School, Cedarville College (B.A.), and the University of South Florida (M.Ed.), Houck is currently in the research phase of his doctorate at the University of Utah. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, cooking, woodworking, and volunteering. He is also a proud father to a four-year-old son and shares his home with a 12-year-old Brittany rescue dog.
Hiram Farm will celebrate its 16th anniversary in June and will host a Sip N Support at Salvage Winery on June 11, 2025, to introduce Daren Houck and celebrate the next chapter of leadership. Ticket information is available on Hiram Farm’s Facebook page or call 330-569-3441
