Green Chimneys What’s Below The Colorful Smokestacks? Driving through the countryside of Brewster, NY, it’s impossible to not recognize Green Chimneys approaching in the distance. The symbolic green chimneys that adorn many of the buildings on campus let visitors know they are near the historic property. On a recent visit, it was astonishing to see the numbers of people stopping by to visit the campus and it’s special residents, both human and otherwise. Apparently this was a slow day, as some weekend events attract thousands. What brings everyone to this NY residential center? Green Chimneys has developed innovative programming to incorporate animals, wild and domesticated, into their daily work with vulnerable children, including wildlife rehab, therapeutic horseback riding, a farm program and the training of assistance dogs. The peaceful and gentle nature of the organization and the staff make it easy to understand the success of the many children and families served here. Children who may not have been treated gently themselves in their young lives are training puppies to assist adults with physical challenges, bandage birds with broken wings, and are excited to handle baby goats in the farm building. The transparency of the program has many clear benefits, such as seeing this program embraced by its community and creating a comfort level amongst the children as they interact with visitors. At a time of great scrutiny of residential programs, CEO Joe Whalen and his dedicated staff welcome the world onto their campus to see for themselves that residential can be a safe, positive, and effective choice for children in need. Read More in the Members Only Area Also in this issue... From the National Director Journal Submission Information Child and Adolescent Firesetting Resource The Consultant’s Corner