Blanchet Farm in Yamhill County is helping to heal the community in tandem with local businesses like A-dec (ADEC) with a compassionate work culture that supports people in recovery.
By Julie Showers
Oregon is struggling with high rates of substance use disorder while facing a shortage of treatment options. Free recovery programs are desperately needed to help individuals overcome addiction and no one knows that better than Brian Buckner. A 14-month stay at Blanchet Farm gave Buckner invaluable time and space to heal. He was able to reconnect with his family and secure a meaningful job with A-dec, a leading dental equipment manufacturer located nearby.
Buckner’s journey away from homelessness and addiction began in the rolling countryside of Yamhill County, where he found solace and support in his struggle. Blanchet Farm offers men a no-cost long-stay recovery program with a focus on meaningful and therapeutic work that includes animal care, gardening and yard upkeep, woodworking, and cooking.
“Blanchet Farm provided me with an opportunity when I didn’t think I had any left and I didn’t think I deserved one,” he reflects. “When I arrived I was broken, homeless, strung out on drugs and alcohol for five years. They provided me with an opportunity to build my life again. It allowed me to save money, furnish my apartment, and provide stability for my family. I needed all of the time I had at the farm to get my feet underneath me.”
Brian Buckner at Blanchet Farm in 2019.
The A-dec Value of Compassion
His time at Blanchet Farm not only facilitated his personal growth but also paved the way for his employment at A-dec. Located in the small town of Newberg, A-dec is one of the largest employers in the area and is committed to making a positive impact. Founded in 1964 by Ken Austin, a local entrepreneur and philanthropist, together with his wife Joan. They built A-dec into a multi-million dollar international enterprise and the largest privately-owned dental manufacturing company in the United States.
Austin keenly understood the struggle of addiction as he was in recovery himself. He didn’t hide his weekly attendance at AA meetings in town where some of his employees also went. He turned his struggle into a positive force by founding the drug and alcohol treatment center Springbrook Northwest, which is now owned by Hazelden.
“I had this calling to work at A-dec,” Buckner shares. “I saw their impact all over town and admired their commitment to community and core values.”
Despite Austin’s passing in 2019, his legacy of compassion and dedication to others lives on in A-dec’s company culture and community-based projects. The company’s commitment to its more than 1,000 employees’ well-being and growth is evident in its values of compassion and excellence.
“There are 15 core principles at A-dec and number one is a concern for people. It is known within the company as the A-dec way. Ken and Joan created that,” Buckner explained. “I did get to meet him once and shake his hand. He was a true gentleman.”
Historical photos of A-dec founder Ken Austin and wife Joan. Courtesy of Austin Family Foundation.
A Concern for People
Joining A-dec as a temporary employee in 2019, Buckner quickly found a sense of purpose and belonging.
“A-dec isn’t just a workplace. It’s a family—a community of individuals who support and uplift each other,” he says of his five years with the company. “I started as a machine operator, a role I never thought I’d have the opportunity to hold. But A-dec saw value in me and offered me a permanent position.”
His dedication and reliability were soon recognized, leading to a promotion to Team Lead.
“A-dec provided me with stability and a path forward,” Buckner reflects. “It’s not just about comfort; it’s about safety—a secure future built on the foundation of community and support.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Buckner remains committed to recovery. He actively participates in 12-step meetings and serves as a mentor to others in need.
“Blanchet Farm and A-dec have been instrumental in my journey,” he acknowledges. “They provided me with the tools and support I needed to rebuild my life. If it can happen to me, it can happen to anybody. Thank God Blanchet Farm and A-dec were there to guide me.”
