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Green Chimneys Featured in The New York Times
March 4, 2019Green Chimneys was featured in The New York Times on Sunday, March 3.
Welcome Principal Cox!
January 10, 2022Green Chimneys starts the new year with new school leadership, welcoming Tara Cox as Principal of Green Chimneys School.
New Camel Settles Into Forever Home and a Merry Mini Caravan is Born
December 17, 2021Witnessing a mini caravan of camels—a trio really—is not a typical sight at most schools.
Sensory-Friendly ‘Shopping’ for Students with Special Needs
December 13, 2021Inside the school gym, holiday music is played at a low volume.
Building Bridges in Woodshop Class and in Life
December 10, 2021Animal Caretaker Maggie Pasquarella helps a Screech Owl transition to its new home at Clearpool.
Goldman Sachs Helps Keep the ‘Merry’ in Our Holidays
December 9, 2021Goldman Sachs employees with Santa and Mrs.
hai2022: Focus on A for Animal
November 30, 2021For nearly a decade, The Sam and Myra Ross Institute at Green Chimneys has served to explore and disseminate scientific, scholarly, and practical information among professionals studying or working in humane education, nature-based programs, and medical and mental health fields.
Holiday Gift Guide 2021
November 8, 2021Are you looking for a unique holiday gift this season?
The Raptors’ Winning Tradition
November 5, 2021What has become increasingly exceptional about Green Chimneys Raptor Athletics is that they are increasingly typical.
Green Chimneys Alumni: Forging Ahead
November 2, 2021Many like to say that life is not about the destination, it’s about the journey.
Respite to Help Families Reconnect
November 1, 2021The pandemic has created new challenges and stressors for many youth and their families.
New Camel Arrives at Green Chimneys
October 19, 2021Green Chimneys is abuzz with the arrival of its newest resident: an Arabian camel named Bunni!
Drawing on the Positive: Art Therapy Speaks to Student’s Interests and Customizes Care
October 18, 2021“I want to make the robot,” Jake says clearly, without a specific tone or measure of insistence.
Students Rise and Shine to Lend a Hand
October 13, 2021When Green Chimneys initiated COVID-19 mitigation efforts across the organization last spring, our Food Services team pivoted from feeding students in the Dining Hall to packaging individual meals and delivering them to classrooms and dorms.
Honoring Our Founders
October 8, 2021In establishing Green Chimneys School for Little Folk in 1947, Founders Samuel B.
From the Books to the Barn: Internship Allows Knowledge and Hands-On Experience to Flourish
September 13, 2021This intern perspective was written by Elizabeth Robertson.
Campus Dogs Enrich Culture Through Daily Interactions
August 17, 2021During the course of the Coronavirus pandemic, Social Worker Remi Levinson welcomed a rescue dog into her life.
Honoring Longtime Supporter and Volunteer Michele Greenburg
July 20, 2021Horse barn volunteer Michele Greenburg works with a 14-year-old student to groom a horse.
High School Senior will Miss Horses, Staff, and ‘Kids’ the Most
June 22, 2021In just a few days, 18-year-old Tyler will graduate from Green Chimneys.
Incorporating Animals and Nature Into Early Childhood Education
June 11, 2021By Brandy Miller, Nature’s Nursery Farm Teacher
The best part about working with young children is their ability to be present in the moment.
Community Outreach Center Receives Grant from Mother Cabrini Health Foundation
May 20, 2021A generous grant ensures continuity of services and activities for the youth who attend the Green Chimneys Community Outreach Center.
Farm Program Grows in the Forest at Clearpool
May 12, 2021Inside the Nature Classroom on the Clearpool campus, student Daniel learns to properly hold a ferret with staff Maggie Pasquarella.
Valuing the Outdoors, More Than Ever
May 5, 2021If there has been a silver lining to the pandemic, it is that we have all realized what we value most in this world.
Being Aware of Mental Health
April 30, 2021A Student Essay
Sometimes when we watch the news, we hear about a bullying case, a suicide, a mental breakdown, or sexual assault, we either just shrug it off or we just say \”Oh\” and we go on to the next story.
Transition Planning Helps Students Prepare for Adulthood
April 16, 2021At Green Chimneys, we work with students of all different abilities and all need to plan for the future, whatever their path may be.
Professional Support During Turbulent Times
April 12, 2021Over 14 months ago, as Coronavirus mitigation efforts began, Green Chimneys knew it would be vital to keep connected with those we serve.
Injured Bald Eagle Benefits from Second Chance and Good Company
April 8, 2021Have you ever seen a Bald Eagle in real life?
Student Embraces Change and Builds Skills
March 29, 2021What does it feel like to start a new school?
Lunge Line Lessons Enhance Students’ Riding Skills
March 25, 2021By Samantha Arevalo, Equine Program Coordinator
Control.
Helping Youth Struggling with Social Isolation
March 24, 2021Chris was an 8th grader at Mahopac Middle School when the pandemic hit last spring.
The Wildlife Center: Year in Review
March 19, 2021By Dave Spillo, Wildlife Caretaker
In January 2020, the new year seemed to offer promise and excitement.
Internship Helps Shape Next Steps in HAI Career
February 23, 2021This intern perspective was written by Rebecca Cobban.
Students Celebrate Release of Rehabilitated Hawk
February 12, 2021Earlier this month, a juvenile Sharp-shinned hawk was released back to the wild.
Brewster Rotary Support for Youth in the Community
February 2, 2021The partnership between the Rotary Club of Brewster and Green Chimneys is a long-standing one, with Rotary members serving as volunteers, advocates and supporters of Green Chimneys for decades.
“Green Chimneys Helped Us Advocate for Our Child’s Needs”
January 27, 2021This parent perspective was provided by Irene Pizzo.
Time and Expertise Help Student Build Social-Emotional Skills
December 21, 2020In mid-March, when COVID-19 mitigation efforts temporarily closed in-person instruction and clinical services at Green Chimneys, teams of staff worked quickly to launch classes and clinical services online.
Anonymous Donor to Match Year-End Gifts
December 10, 2020Year-end gift to Green Chimneys will now go even farther thanks to the generous support of an anonymous corporate donor.
Guiding with Intention
December 4, 2020From Green Chimneys Executive Director Dr.
Green Chimneys Receives Grant from The Engelstad Foundation
December 3, 2020The COVID-19 crisis has heightened our collective awareness about children’s mental health.
Keeping Children Connected to Clinical Support During COVID-19
December 1, 2020A child’s perspective typically depends on their age, and their understanding of events going on in the world around them.
Horse Herd Helped by Dedicated Volunteers
November 17, 2020A purposeful riding session: Eliza Love (left) and Debbie Moore are among the volunteers who helped Chief, Walter, and the rest of the herd, prepare for the return of students.
Practitioner Experiences Illustrate Benefits of HAI
November 6, 2020While the COVID-19 pandemic has created substantial challenges for both Green Chimneys and the University of Denver-based research team, the portfolio of research projects has proceeded with data that had been collected concurrently with content for the recently published \”Documentation of Nature-Based Programs.
Three Holiday Gift Ideas That Give Back
October 28, 2020Looking to get a jump start on your 2020 holiday shopping?
Autumn and Nature-Based Activities Inspire Learning at Boni-Bel Farm
October 19, 2020As a therapeutic school rooted in nature-based practices, the seasons help keep the pace of learning at Green Chimneys.
Building Knowledge and Skills Through Internship
October 13, 2020In the fall of 2019, Kristen Stec arrived at Green Chimneys to start an internship.
Back to School: A Parent’s Perspective
September 21, 2020Even during the pandemic and with students across the country learning from home, in school, and in hybrid situations, countless families documented the first day of school by snapping pictures.
Juvenile Bald Eagle Regains Strength and Returns to the Wild
September 8, 2020On a bright mid-August morning children spread across the lawn of our Clearpool Campus in Carmel, New York.
Aging Deer Finds Companionship with Young Turkeys
August 4, 2020In May, Green Chimneys received a call from longtime friend James Eyring, Assistant Director of the Nature Center at Pace University, regarding two newly hatched turkeys in need of a home.
The Tale of Six Fuzzy Ducklings
June 18, 2020In April, the Green Chimneys Wildlife Center was contacted by a woman who had found baby ducks in the parking lot of the Danbury Fair Mall in nearby Danbury, Connecticut.
A Message from Green Chimneys Executive Director
June 6, 2020In light of current events, it’s important that we have clarity on who we are as an agency, and the values we wish to embody.
Speech Therapy Adapts for Students with Special Needs Amid COVID-19 Precautions
June 2, 2020On a typical workday, Green Chimneys Speech-Language Pathologist Amanda Santangelo utilizes our Brewster campus to bring therapy sessions outdoors.
Green Chimneys Recognizes Volunteers Amid COVID-19 Closures
May 12, 2020Volunteers enrich the Green Chimneys culture.
Animal Welfare and Pet Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic
May 1, 2020The life and times of COVID-19 mitigation are affecting many of the living things around us.
Helping Children Develop Social Emotional Skills
April 30, 2020Talk to any of Aidan’s peers, and they’ll say he is the nicest person they know.
Act of Kindness Reconnects Students with Beloved Dog
April 17, 2020For Green Chimneys students who attend school on our Clearpool campus, this fuzzy face is quite familiar.
Green Chimneys Receives Fifth Grant from the Petco Foundation for Dog Interaction Program
April 16, 2020For the fifth year in a row, Green Chimneys has received a grant from the Petco Foundation’s Helping Heroes in-store fundraising campaign in partnership with Merrick Pet Care.
Therapeutic Support and Connection During a Health Crisis
April 9, 2020It goes without saying that the COVID-19 health crisis has and continues to be a challenging time for all of us.
Rehabilitated Vulture Helped by Green Chimneys Featured on Animal Planet
April 6, 2020Last summer we learned of a Turkey Vulture with a leg injury that was being cared for at the Bronx Zoo.
Talent Show with a Therapeutic Twist
February 20, 2020The annual Talent Show, organized by a team of recreational and art therapists, provides Green Chimneys School children who struggle with social, emotional and learning challenges, an opportunity to take the stage.
STEAM Fair Challenges Students to Explore, Discover, and Share
February 1, 2020How does music affect animal behavior?
The Spirit of the Holidays Shines Thanks to Pretium Partners
December 11, 2019Santa’s helpers present themselves in a variety of ways this time of year, and we are always touched by the giving spirit.
Finding Focus and Living in the Present
November 7, 2019For many, a quiet horseback ride on a wooded trail is inherently relaxing.
Classroom as Community
September 30, 2019With terms like “growth mindset,” “restorative justice,” and “positive behavior interventions and support” permeating schools across the country, educators continue to be dually tasked with adopting new approaches to classroom behavior management while also ensuring the growth of each individual.
Small Horse, Big Heart: Spadi
August 21, 2019A 19-year career is a success by any stretch and when it has served to help children with special needs, it feels even more meaningful.
Working Alongside Staff: A Volunteer’s Experience
August 12, 2019“When I first came to campus and saw the peacocks, the farm, and the camels, I knew this was the place for me,” explains Carrie describing her first visit to Green Chimneys.
Baby Owls Receive Second Chance at Life in the Wild
July 19, 2019What did a team of wildlife experts do when they found themselves with not one, not two, but three baby owls on their hands?
It’s a Girl: Farm Welcomes Foal
May 15, 2019At long last, we’re pleased to announce the arrival of a foal; meet Cricket!
Students and Shelter Dogs Win with Pawesome Program
May 7, 2019Green Chimneys School students recently participated in the Rockland Community College\’s Health & Wellness Fair.
The Power of Partnership
April 30, 2019When a bird of prey is flown in falconry, it is at its prime.
Student Benefits from Team Approach
April 17, 2019In the midst of the bustling dining hall, 14-year-old Elijah says, \”I felt ashamed.
Classroom Strategies for Sensory Support
April 2, 2019In recognition of Autism Awareness month, we are sharing tips for educators.
Miniature Horse Leads Big Lessons
March 27, 2019In the fall, a pregnant eight-year-old miniature horse joined the Green Chimneys Farm & Wildlife Center.
Injured Bald Eagle Under Expert Care
March 22, 2019Last week, Green Chimneys Wildlife Expert Paul Kupchok received an unexpected call.
Remembering Green Chimneys Founder Samuel B. Ross, Jr.
February 28, 2019One year ago today, Green Chimneys Founder Samuel B.
Students Share and Shine at Talent Show
February 15, 2019When the lights went up on the Green Chimneys Talent Show last night, there couldn’t have been a more dramatic start.
Green Chimneys Receives Fourth Grant from the Petco Foundation for Dog Interaction Program
February 6, 2019For the fourth year in a row, Green Chimneys has received a grant from the Petco Foundation’s Helping Heroes in-store fundraising campaign in partnership with Merrick Pet Care.
Tradition Continues Thanks to W. R. Berkley
December 20, 2018Each December, for the past decade, children at Green Chimneys have waited in anticipation for the arrival of a big, beautiful, delicious treat to arrive in our dining hall from … W.
Pretium Partners Help Children Experience the Spirit of Giving
December 14, 2018Santa’s helpers present themselves in a variety of ways this time of year, and we are always touched by the giving spirit.
New Grant to Launch After School Coding Club
December 7, 2018Green Chimneys is a proud recipient of new funding to support computer skills and activities for students with autism.
Student and Rescued Mule Help Each Other
November 8, 2018By the age of eight, Britt had lived on several New England farms before ending up at a New Hampshire-based rescue.
School Food for Thought
November 2, 2018Feeding children is no easy task and school menus typically reflect challenges that range from picky eaters to high food costs to kitchen staffing.
Green Chimneys Names APPA CEO Bob Vetere as New Board President
October 11, 2018This month, American Pet Products Association (APPA) President and CEO Bob Vetere will assume the role of Green Chimneys Board President.
Remembering Longtime Donor and Volunteer Vivian Donnelley
October 9, 2018It is with sadness that we share the passing of Vivian Donnelley, a longtime donor, volunteer and dear friend of Green Chimneys.
Celebrating Horses and Humans Working Together
October 8, 2018There are few things more graceful than a horse and rider moving as one as they seamlessly complete a well-appointed jumping course.
Mindfulness Initiative Helps Students Build Key Skills
September 17, 2018Holistic physician Amy Saltzman defines mindfulness as “Paying attention to your life, here and now, with kindness and curiosity.
Sensory Tools Can Help Children Transition Back to School
August 28, 2018For many children with sensory sensitivities, ADHD, anxiety, or those with a diagnosed disorder such as Autism Spectrum or Sensory Processing, acclimating to the classroom environment may be challenging.
Team Spirit Takes All During Raptor Week
August 21, 2018Green Chimneys School students work hard all year long so coming together for a few days of team activities and healthy competition is a great way to close out the summer session.
Green Chimneys Teacher Shares Year-End Thoughts and Pride
August 17, 2018Change is never easy but always constant.
Sensory Support for Students with Special Needs
July 9, 2018The children who come to Green Chimneys School struggle with a wide range of social-emotional issues that can seriously challenge a child’s ability to cope in certain situations.
Students with Special Needs Boost Culture of Kindness
May 29, 2018A colorful and kind mural was recently installed at Green Chimneys thanks to our inspired students, supportive staff and a keen collaboration with fellow nonprofit Ben’s Bells.
Green Chimneys Sustains Significant Damage to Wildlife Center
May 22, 2018On Tuesday, May 15, a devastating storm struck parts of New York and Connecticut.
Wild Ducklings Receive Head Start at Green Chimneys
May 4, 2018At long last, there are signs of spring blossoming throughout both Green Chimneys campuses, from budding trees to baby wildlife.
The Gyrfalcon: A True Flight of Fancy
April 27, 2018Strong is the torch that’s carried for all things royal.
Scavenger Hunt Meets Farm Exploration for Green Chimneys Student
March 30, 2018On a frosty winter day, student Zach and therapist Rachael meet at the chicken coop for an occupational therapy session.
Continuing the Legacy of Green Chimneys Founder Samuel B. Ross
March 1, 2018New York’s human services world has lost a truly unique educator and advocate for children and animals.
Green Chimneys Community Shines at Annual Talent Show
February 16, 2018What makes our annual Talent Show so special?
Horseshoes Meet Vocational Education at Green Chimneys
January 25, 2018Green Chimneys School students recently received a lesson from our longtime farrier, Tom Nolan.
Challenging Young Minds at Green Chimneys School
January 18, 2018Which foods are most susceptible to mold?
Reinforcing Positive Behavior to Help Students Build Core Skills
November 5, 2017It’s hard to remember where and how we first learned to “behave appropriately.
Harnessing the Best of Green Chimneys
October 27, 2017“I’m useless.
Sharing Expertise in Residential Education
October 23, 2017Green Chimneys Executive Director Ed Placke offered an educator’s perspective on best practices for students with special needs at two important forums this October:
As a featured speaker, he presented “Educating Students With/Without Disabilities in Residential Care\” at A Child Welfare Symposium presented by Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education in West Harrison, NY.
Green Chimneys Students Prepare to Conquer the Forest
October 11, 2017Come November 18th, Green Chimneys will host Conquer the Forest, a 5-mile trail run through the Model Forest at the Clearpool campus in Carmel, NY.
Green Chimneys Celebrates Runaway Youth Prevention
October 5, 2017November is National Runaway Prevention Month and Green Chimneys is shining a light on the issues facing runaway youth.
Green Chimneys Welcomes Scottish Highland Calf
September 12, 2017November is National Runaway Prevention Month and Green Chimneys is shining a light on the issues facing runaway youth.
The Green Chimneys School Garden Teaches as It Blooms
August 17, 2017Summer is always a wonderful time in the school garden.
Green Chimneys Becomes Temporary Home for Family’s Beloved Horse
August 8, 2017In February, Yonkers, New York residents Mario and Amy Basantes were enjoying a trip to New Orleans when the unexpected happened while watching a parade: a drunk driver careened into a group of onlookers, hitting more than 30 people.
Green Chimneys Earns PATH Intl. Reaccreditation
June 28, 2017Upholding high industry standards in animal care and practice is an important part of the Green Chimneys culture.
Celebrating 100th Shelter Dog to “Graduate” from Green Chimneys
June 7, 2017Cue “Pomp & Circumstance” and prepare yourself for a most wonderful graduation strut.
American Chestnuts Planted at Green Chimneys Clearpool Campus
May 10, 2017Green Chimneys Outdoor Education staff and students plant seeds to help increase growth of the American chestnut species in the region
Outdoor Education staff and students at Green Chimneys’ Clearpool Campus in Carmel, NY got their hands dirty – as they often do – with a hands-on lesson in sustainability and forestry.
One Family’s Journey to Green Chimneys
May 8, 2017Green Chimneys taught me that when you feel you are alone heading down a dark, never-ending road, it just might be leading you to the brightest most promising place you have ever been.
Honoring Green Chimneys Founders Myra and Samuel B. Ross, Jr
April 17, 2017To celebrate 70 years of Green Chimneys is to honor our roots.
New Green Chimneys Executive Director Officially Takes the Reins
April 3, 2017It was a joyous and meaningful day for the entire Green Chimneys community as longtime agency head Joe Whalen officially passed the reins to Dr.
Green Chimneys Community Thanks Outgoing Executive Director Joseph Whalen
March 29, 2017In 1972, a young teacher joined the staff of Green Chimneys School.
Green Chimneys Receives Third Grant from the Petco Foundation for Dog Interaction Program
February 23, 2017For the third year in a row, Green Chimneys has received a grant from the Petco Foundation’s Helping Heroes in-store fundraising campaign in partnership with Natural Balance.
Green Chimneys Students Shine at Annual Talent Show
February 13, 2017But there they were.
Green Chimneys Student Releases Rehabilitated Hawk
February 2, 2017When an injured bird has been nurtured back to health at Green Chimneys, we pause before it’s released to wish it well.
Rescue Parrot Nestles Into New Life at Green Chimneys
January 5, 2017In November a local SPCA reached out to Green Chimneys to see if we would be able to take in a 20-year-old Conure parrot recently rescued and in need of a home.
Secret Santa Fulfills Wish List for Green Chimneys Equines
January 3, 2017In December, during a quick stop at Patterson-based Saddle Manor, Green Chimneys staff researched equine equipment for possible purchase.
More than Chores: Weekly Sessions on the Farm Help Foster a Child’s Interests While Supporting Therapeutic Growth
November 30, 2016It\’s been nearly two years since Green Chimneys Farm Program Facilitator Cody Scott began working with student Sebastian.
Green Chimneys Farm and Institute Director Honored by PATH Intl
November 29, 2016Green Chimneys congratulates Michael Kaufmann, Director of Farm & Wildlife and The Sam and Myra Ross Institute, as recipient of the 2016 PATH Intl.
Expressing Gratitude at Thanksgiving: A Speech-Language Activity for Children
November 21, 2016Many families take the time to verbally express their words of gratitude when gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving.
3 Ways Camels Make For Unusual and Awesome Therapy Partners
November 9, 2016Green Chimneys Farm Education Manager Miyako Kinoshita and Social Worker Shauna McWilliams are colleagues and friends.
Fresh From Snow Hill Farm
November 1, 2016Green Chimneys is always so grateful for the gifts we receive from our friends and supporters but when those gifts are organic, sustainably produced and delicious, it’s something to talk about!
Green Chimneys Farm Welcomes Abandoned Pig
October 31, 2016A warm welcome to Oscar; a two-year-old Vietnamese Pot Belly Pig that joined the Green Chimneys farm this past September.
Green Chimneys School: A Parent’s Perspective by Fay Casatuta
October 28, 2016All of our children are different and need different things as they grow and mature.
Green Chimneys: Honoring History, Looking Ahead
October 12, 2016For any organization, a milestone anniversary prompts thoughtful looks back and ambitious ideas for the future.
Animal Enrichment and Well-Being
November 5, 2015Among the many facets of caring for farm animals and wildlife at Green Chimneys is animal enrichment.
