MISSION & PROGRAMS

Mission:
Green Chimneys is a multi-faceted nonprofit organization helping young people to maximize their full potential by providing residential, educational, clinical, and recreational services in a safe and supportive environment that nurtures connections with their families, the community, animals, and nature.

Our organization conducts Equine Assisted Services in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS).
Our organization provides outreach and/or public education programs involving horses.
Our organization is directly responsible for the care and shelter of equines involved in our programs.
25% of our total programs and services are equine-related.

Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.


Summary of organization's recent accomplishments, goals, strategies to achieve the goals, and capabilities to meet the goals, including its long-term plans to sustain its programs:
Outlined below are accomplishments at Green Chimneys over the past year, including a description of Hoof Harmony, one of our equine assisted services programs and our equine program goals for the current fiscal year (2024/2025) which began on July 1st.
     
     Hoof Harmony:
     A small group of Green Chimneys students watches three horses in the riding arena. While two of the horses engage in play, the other stands alone in the corner. “What do you notice?” asks Social Worker Jess Aiello. “Do the horses look content playing together? What do they do when they need a break from playing?” As the students share what they see, they start to draw parallels to their own experiences with peers. Our students discuss scenarios like these during an animal-assisted activity called Herd Observation. Led by a clinician, they observe equine behavior and apply insights into human interactions or their own situations. For example, adding a new horse to the arena parallels the challenges of adjusting to change in human social environments -- a situation particularly relevant to students who may be new to Green Chimneys.
     
     Herd Observation is just one facet of Hoof Harmony, a specialized therapeutic group for our special needs students aimed at cultivating meaningful connections with horses and translating these lessons into human connections. Through structured activities spanning several weeks, students practice new skills with the support of an equine partner that they are paired with at random.
     
     Hoof Harmony has helped Green Chimneys student Zoe grow. When Zoe was paired initially with Gandalf, she did not want to work with the Appaloosa/Draft crossbreed. She rode him previously and did not enjoy the experience. She chose not to participate in a walk with the horses that first session. The second week involved a grooming exercise and Zoe decided to give Gandalf a chance. Riding Instructor Becky Cobban knows Gandalf to be a horse that needs his personal space and requires respect when he doesn’t want interaction.
     
     “Zoe was respectful and attentive to his body language as she brushed him. She watched how his ears told her what he did -- and didn’t -- like,” says Becky. “There were a couple of moments here I think she got overwhelmed but she took a step back, took a breath, and then re-entered the situation with him. It resulted in Gandalf truly paying attention to her -- and Zoe won him over. She did a really great job.” Zoe easily reflects on her time working with Gandalf, “I can’t remember now why I didn’t like him. I know once I got to know him, I changed my mind. I know he likes me, too. Group really helped me with learning new coping skills when I’m upset.”
     
     Green Chimneys is a multi-faceted nonprofit organization helping young people to maximize their full potential by providing residential, educational, clinical, and recreational services in a safe and supportive environment that nurtures connections with their families, the community, animals, and nature. Other non-equine related accomplishments include:
     
     Green Chimneys Appoints Chief Executive Officer:
     In January, Kristin Dionne was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Green Chimneys. Kristin has dedicated her 30-year career to the nonprofit sector. She joined Green Chimneys in 2007 as Director of Development, working directly with our founder Dr. Ross to ensure a robust fund development strategy and a growing donor base. She soon joined the organization’s management team and was promoted to Associate Executive Director of Development/Managing Director of The Friends of Green Chimneys. She was appointed Interim Executive Director in June 2023, assuming oversight of all agency operations and growth for the 800-person organization.
     
     Kristin’s institutional knowledge and sound management skills have played a vital role in framing Green Chimneys’ vision and in developing strategy and support for the organization. Throughout her tenure, she has built strong relationships within the surrounding community, among industry peers and with agency stakeholders, leading her staff in raising millions of dollars in private and public funding to support vital programming for the children, families, and animals in Green Chimneys’ care.
     
     Prior to joining Green Chimneys, Kristin served as Associate Executive Director of Hartley House, a settlement house and social services organization in New York City, where she oversaw strategy, program development, and evaluation. Kristin holds a Bachelor’s Degree from St. Anselm College, Master’s degrees in Public Administration and Social Work from Marywood University, and a Certificate of Non-Profit Management from Columbia University.
     
     Therapeutic Gardening:
     Green Chimneys’ therapeutic gardening program provides many opportunities for students to develop new skills and confidence while “getting their hands dirty.” This innovative program encompasses organic gardens on both the Brewster and Clearpool campuses, a greenhouse, and our five-acre Boni-Bel farm and country store. Led by a therapist and a licensed teacher with a specialized background in horticulture, our students plant, weed, and harvest a variety of plants and produce, much of which is prepared in the dining hall for school lunches and dinners. Our garden instructors collaborate with the school’s Life Skills class where students cook the produce grown in our gardens and learn about healthy eating habits. Garden activities also reinforce classroom learning in science, math, and language arts.
     
     Green Chimneys’ horticulture program is in full bloom throughout the year. During the spring, summer, and fall months, students participate in the planting, maintenance, and harvesting of crops. Despite the cold weather, in the winter students learn about the scientific side of horticulture, including plant anatomy and seed propagation in our 600-square-foot greenhouse; they grow vegetables and herbs in grow bags or the hydroponic tower. Students like Ezra (pictured above) assist with spring garden preparations, including crop planning, seeding, and building bug houses. Through practical lessons in the garden, students develop a respect for nature and feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment to help them overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
     
     Accommodating Individualized Learning Needs:
     Adaptability is a key element in educating special needs children -- adjusting instructional style to ensure that all students are able to focus, participate, and grasp the content of a lesson. Over the past year, Green Chimneys School has adopted a teaching model called Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI), an evidence-based approach to working with special education students with different learning needs.
     
     EDI consists of extensive differentiation, which acknowledges the differences in learning needs within a classroom, and scaffolding, in which teachers initially present information in a group setting and then progressively build upon it. A typical lesson begins with teacher-directed instruction to the whole class, incorporating check-ins and opportunities to ensure that students understand the material, and then transitioning students to working in small groups or on independent tasks. This allows the teacher to assess each student’s comprehension of the material.
     
     Our teachers are very excited about this new approach. “EDI has been having a positive impact on our students,” says Green Chimneys middle school teacher Laurie Sarracco. “We're breaking down lessons into clear and straightforward steps; it's like giving students a roadmap for learning. This is particularly beneficial for special needs kids because it caters to different learning styles and helps keep everyone on the same page. It keeps them engaged.” EDI is not just about academics; it helps our students build confidence, while providing a more effective learning environment for the entire class.
     
     Restorative Practice:
     The safe and supportive environment for students and staff at Green Chimneys is the product of a widely used social model called Restorative Practice, which promotes effective conflict management and open communication. Restorative Practice serves to improve and repair relationships so that each member within a community is able to resolve conflict and actively work towards the betterment of the whole group.
     
     Over the past two years, Green Chimneys Clinical, Education, and Support staff have participated in extensive training to incorporate this approach throughout the organization.
     “When individuals feel an innate sense of safety in expressing their feelings and thoughts, they learn to thrive, progress, and strive individually, and create and maintain healthy communities around them,” says Green Chimneys Social Services Director Jenna Eckna. “These communities can exist among co-workers in different departments and among students in classrooms and dormitories.”
     Productive discussions among peers explore the feelings of each individual, both during a conflict and afterwards. These discussions create a better understanding of how a situation has escalated, how it affected each person, and how to repair the relationships.
     
     First, the student who initiated an incident is asked: ‘What were you thinking at the time?’ ‘What have you thought about since the event?’ ‘Who has been affected by what you did and how might they have been feeling?’ In turn, students who experienced the incident are asked: ‘What impact has this incident/situation had on you and others?’ ‘What has been the hardest thing to deal with concerning this issue?’ ‘What do you think needs to happen to make things right?’
     
     This method is very successful in helping students think about how their behavior affects the whole group. Talking helps them to feel remorseful and empathetic. It brings the community together as a whole and sends a strong message to the students that they are heard, safe, and can express their feelings without fear of retaliation. Teaching youth to solve problems together and move ahead in a positive manner paves the way for healthy interactions throughout their school careers, and far into the future.
     
     Substance Abuse Prevention:
     For over 25 years Green Chimneys’ Community-Based Services (CBS) has provided vital services for at-risk youth and families from Putnam County and the surrounding area. Our programs include a Community Outreach Center, an emergency shelter, and a transitional living program. The core of CBS’ work is equipping youth with the information and tools to help them make healthy decisions. Our programs have been an important resource for the local community.
     
     In January CBS was the recipient of a competitive grant from Putnam County to provide a Substance Misuse Prevention Program for youth ages 10-21, which has been integrated into the mental health services and support groups provided at the Community Outreach Center. Led by clinical staff, the group meets weekly to teach youth the facts about substance use, its potential to lead to use disorders, and affect long-term mental health. Group discussions focus on ways for youth to explore their thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes and the behaviors that result, and develop personal coping skills to help in solving problems.
     
     “Our team has first-hand knowledge of the growing mental health and substance abuse crisis among youth over the past few years,” says CBS Director Clare Rigano. “Education and early intervention is critical to the health and safety of our youth. Over the past three years, 100% percent of youth admitted to our temporary shelter reported issues with mental health, which is a major risk factor for alcohol and/or drug use.” We look forward to this new opportunity to provide education and support to local youth and their families.
     
     Goals for our Equine Program:
     
     In the fall of 2024, the Green Chimneys Equine Program will move towards a groundwork-based equine-assisted services model. The refreshed program will promote knowledge of equine well-being; the building of relationships with a herd of horses; and the responsible care and management of equines. Students will gain an increased appreciation for animals and will work towards developing life skills that include leadership, responsibility, and teamwork.
     
     Groundwork with equines does not involve riding --leading, lunging, longlining, and assisting in equine training exercises are the activities that will engage students directly with the animals. Lessons and activity periods will focus on all elements of horse care, proper handling, and on developing an understanding of equine body language and behavior. Through an approach that focuses on daily practical care of horses, some of whom may have special needs, we seek to support our students’ physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. Curriculum will be designed and taught based on groundwork with equines that meets New York State Educational Standards.
     
     Our program will facilitate students' personal growth by teaching social/emotional and life skills through interactions with horses on the ground and aims to help students relate to equines on a personal level, to build confidence and to strengthen self-esteem through the equine/human bond. This approach supplements Green Chimneys' overall treatment goals for its students.
     
     Students will learn from a herd of horses of varying breeds, sizes, ages, medical needs and temperaments. Because there is no athletic riding expectation of the horses, we will have room to take in additional special needs/older equines, who may need rehabilitation or medical support for chronic conditions. Students respond very well to animals in need and show great motivation to support and work with horses that are on a healing journey. The shared bond of healing unites humans and animals and can frame the interaction in a profound way.



Please describe what steps your organization takes to ensure that:
1) the interactions between your equines and people are mutually beneficial and conducted in accordance with the Guidelines for Human-Equine Interactions stated below;
2) all equines in the care of our organization and/or equines that participate in the organization's program have access to clean drinking water at all times; nutritious food in sufficient quantity, including natural forage such as pasture grass and/or hay; appropriate veterinary, farrier, and dental care; shelter and protection from the weather; sufficient safe space to move around comfortably on a daily basis; and daily opportunity to freely interact and have contact with other equines:

The Equine-Assisted Activities Program is a key part of the therapeutic programming we offer at Green Chimneys. Approximately 300 students in grades K-12 are enrolled each year at our therapeutic day school; about 100 of these students reside on-campus at our residential treatment center. Our children face debilitating mental health challenges that have made it difficult for them to learn and thrive in a typical school setting, and often, within their families and communities; these include anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar and Impulse Control Disorders, PTSD, Mood and Reactive Attachment disorders, among others. Our natural surroundings and small, structured, and supportive setting create a safe, therapeutic environment for children with special needs.
     
     Green Chimneys maintains a 250-acre Farm and Wildlife Center on our Brewster campus, which is home to over 300 animals and wildlife, including horses, donkeys, and ponies. Our equine-assisted activities program has been an extremely effective therapeutic tool for our students. Our focus is on maintaining a robust herd that can fulfill the therapeutic needs of our children, while at the same time ensuring that our horses receive optimal care.
     
     Animal welfare is at the core of the Green Chimneys mission and great lengths are taken to provide the utmost in nutrition, housing and veterinary care. The role of the farm animals, horses and other species at Green Chimneys is to live in a mutually beneficial relationship. The animals of the Farm & Wildlife Center are valued partners and staff members ensure that animals benefit as much from the interactions as the children do. Resident animals are not objects to be used, but individuals to interact with in a respectful manner. Most importantly the students learn to become the caretakers of these animals and the shared environment.
     
     Our trained staff supervises all equine-assisted activities to ensure the safety and comfort of both the equine and the student. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate and monitor the capability of our equines to participate comfortably in activities.
     
     Our Farm and Wildlife Center consists of a 22-stall barn, an indoor riding arena, two outdoor riding rings, two pastures, nine paddocks, and ten run-in sheds. Our staff ensures that our equines have access to clean drinking water, food, grass and hay; regular veterinary care including dental and farrier visits; indoor shelter from the weather; and daily interaction with other equines as well as with staff and students.
     
     Green Chimneys is a past recipient of the ASPCA’s prestigious Henry Bergh Award honoring commitment to the care and well-being of animals.


Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
Our organization provides the following Equine Assisted Services (EAS):
    Therapeutic Mounted Services
    Therapeutic Unmounted Services
    Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning
    Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

5: Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers at Green Chimneys Brewster Campus

     1. Green Chimneys School

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Green Chimneys Brewster Campus

         RELATIONSHIP: Other

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Academic Learning

         Equine-Assisted Learning involving Personal and/or Professional Development

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         Green Chimneys is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), Council on Accreditation (COA), National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES), and Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) Premier Accredited Center. Green Chimneys is approved/licensed by NYS Board of Social Welfare, NYS Department of Health, NYS Department of Social Services, NYS Education Department, NYS Office of Children and Family Services, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and US Fish & Wildlife Service.

     2. Michael Kaufmann

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Green Chimneys Brewster Campus

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH Certification - Registered Therapeutic Riding Instructor.
The Registered Instructor is the entry-level certification required for PATH International Centers. Registered Level Instructor is able to conduct a safe, basic equestrian lesson to individuals with disabilities.

     3. Miyako Kinoshita

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Green Chimneys Brewster Campus

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH - Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor.

A PATH International Advanced Instructor is knowledgeable in horse mastership and understands disabilities and their relationships to therapeutic riding. He/she is able to demonstrate instruction that shows progression in riding skills in safe, challenging lessons.

     4. Samantha Arevalo

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Green Chimneys Brewster Campus

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH Certified Registered Therapeutic Riding Instructor

     5. Valerie Parody

         FACILITY PARTICIPATION:

         Green Chimneys Brewster Campus

         RELATIONSHIP: Employee

         SERVICES PROVIDED:

         Therapeutic Mounted Services

         Therapeutic Unmounted Services

         DEGREES, LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

         PATH Certification - Registered Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Overview of our programs involved with providing EAS to individuals with special needs:
     Green Chimneys' special needs students have the opportunity to participate in weekly, year-round equine-assisted activities. Our equine program consists of:
     
      1) Horse care activities, which contribute to building positive character in children and making a positive difference in the quality of life of our equines. These activities include feeding, grooming and bathing, cleaning paddocks or stalls, sweeping the hayloft, and exercising the equines. In conjunction with Green Chimneys' residential, school, and therapeutic staff, horse care activities teach our students important life skills such as personal hygiene, nutrition, and self-care.
     
      2)Our Therapeutic Riding Program focuses on the cooperative work between rider and horse. Our PATH-certified instructors teach equine behavior, correct posture, and communication/riding aides
     so that students can ride horses with skill, as well as awareness and compassion towards the horse they are working with. Fine motor skills, body and spatial awareness, and communication skills are all practiced during riding.
     
      3) Equine vocational classes are offered to our high school students in accordance with NYS education department guidelines and requirements, as part of Green Chimneys' vocational education program. These credit-bearing classes are taught with the goal for our students to develop employable skills and credentials upon graduation.
     
      We have found that equine activities teach children with emotional and behavioral challenges a variety of skills and coping behaviors including psycho-motor, language, social, academic, and emotional. When a child develops a healthy relationship with a horse, the child is often able to translate those positive feelings into his/her relationships with peers, teachers, and/or families. Our herd of equines serves approximately 300 students each year through various activities on a rotating schedule.
     
      We also offer riding during after-school hours for our residential students. We have indoor and outdoor riding facilities that allow us to offer our program year-round regardless of the weather.
     
      Green Chimneys takes the following steps to ensure that our equines are benefiting from their interactions with our students:
     
      * We have an extensive individualized horse care plan developed in cooperation with our veterinarian, farrier, equine nutritionist, saddle fitter and other specialists as needed. We also have an exercise/training plan implemented by our "Barn Buddy" volunteers (Green Chimneys staff members), to help each horse stay physically and mentally fit and ready for work.
      * Our students are instructed in equine welfare and care issues and included in the day-to-day care of the horses.
      * Horses are kept in compatible herds, are turned out in pastures and paddocks with shelters during non-working times, and are only in their stalls prior to work, for medical reasons, or during extreme weather events.
      * We have developed individualized student activity plans for each equine -- including tack selection/fit, rider weight limits and the types of interaction the horse is trained/suited for.
      * Our horses are either “free lease” (to be returned to their families at some point) or owned outright by Green Chimneys. We make a lifetime commitment to horses that we purchase or accept as donations. Once in our herd, no horse is ever sold.

Overview of our programs involved with providing outreach and/or public education programs involving horses:
     Our community outreach and public education programs involving horses and other animals are described under the Programs section.

Research/Medical Use of Equines:
Our organization has never made, and would not ever consider making, equines available for research studies or medical training that involves invasive procedures and/or that which may cause pain or suffering to the equine. 

Religious Affiliation:
Our organization does not promote religious education, religious purposes, or a specific religious faith or use donations for religious education or religious purposes; require participants to be of a certain faith; require participation in religious, instruction, activities or services; or require participation in prayer, worship, religious instruction or other religious activities as a condition of receiving social or secular services offered. 

Auction Donation:
Our organization has never allowed, or would not consider allowing, an equine to be sold, transferred, released, or otherwise placed into possession of any person or organization that would cause or allow the equine to be sold at auction for slaughter. 

Our Programs/Activities that are not equine-related and/or involving animals other than equines:
 Programs
     
     Green Chimneys Therapeutic Day School (Brewster and Clearpool campuses):
     - Green Chimneys Therapeutic Day School serves approximately 300 students each year who are facing emotional, social, and behavioral challenges. The population we serve includes boys and girls ages 5-20 who are bused daily to school from their homes or who live in our residential treatment center. Approximately 75% of our students have multiple psychiatric diagnoses and have had at least one psychiatric hospital stay prior to coming to Green Chimneys.
     
     Students often arrive at Green Chimneys with poor self-image and low self-confidence, feeling that they have failed in their home school districts and in their relationships with their peers and families. To meet the diverse needs of our students, we have developed a unique educational and therapeutic program, incorporating animal-assisted and nature-based activities, to help them achieve NYS education standards according to their Individual Education Plans.
     
     Residential Treatment Center (Brewster, NY)
     - In our Residential Treatment Center we provide a home with intensive structure and emotional support to approximately 100 boys and girls ages 5-20, who face emotional and behavioral challenges including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Bipolar Disorder, Autism, Depression, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Anxiety and Social Phobia, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
     Green Chimneys offers an array of support services to help these children learn to cope with their challenges, develop self-esteem, take care of themselves and those around them, and ultimately, live healthy and productive lives. We provide students with individual, group and family counseling; occupational therapy; speech therapy; and medical, dental, and psychological services.
     
     Sam and Myra Ross Farm and Wildlife Center (Brewster)
     - Animal Assisted Activities Programs: Through our farm and garden activities, children begin to reconnect with other living beings, develop self-esteem, and reestablish the basis for healthy relationships with other children and adults. Our students interact with and care for domesticated animals, such as horses, sheep, goats, chickens, dogs, and other farm animals. Animal welfare is at the core of our mission and great lengths are taken so each animal receives the utmost nutrition, housing, and veterinary care.
     
     - Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (Brewster)
     The Center is dedicated to caring for injured and orphaned Birds of Prey (including falcons, eagles, and owls), fowl, reptiles, and wild animals, while teaching children that not all animals like to be handled, but should be treated with respect. Whenever possible, rehabilitated wildlife is released back into the wild by the children who assisted with the animal's care. The release is often timed to coincide with the child's discharge from Green Chimneys and serves as a wonderful parallel between the healing of both children and animals during their time with us.
     
     - Boni-Bel Farm and Country Store (Brewster)
     Boni-Bel Farm is a working organic farm which produces vegetables, fruit, maple syrup, and honey for use in our kitchen, life skills classroom, and to be sold at our Country Store. Boni-Bel provides learning opportunities for all of our youth, particularly for our high school students enrolled in our Vocational Education Program.
     
     - The Sam and Myra Ross Research Institute at Green Chimneys (Brewster):
     Dedicated to education and research on the human connection to animals and the natural world, the Institute researches, implements, and promotes a model for effective animal- and nature-based programming and treatment for children with special needs. Our Farm Internship Program provides 20 interns, 21 years of age and older, with an introduction to the theoretical and practical principles of incorporating animals, plants, and the natural world into the re-education, socialization, and treatment of children experiencing crisis in their lives.
     
     Clearpool Environmental Education Center - Carmel, NY:
     - Clearpool is our second campus located on more than 350 acres of pristine woodland. In October 2011, Clearpool became the fourth Model Forest site established in the New York City Water Supply region. Model Forest sites are dedicated to supporting environmental education and encouraging stewardship of the Croton Watershed. We offer a Partner School Program for Environmental Education at Clearpool, in which we partner with public schools from throughout New York Metropolitan area to provide their students with an innovative environmental science curriculum aligned with NYS STEM learning standards and reinforced with hands-on learning. Approximately 500 students participate in the Partner School Program each year. We also help teachers and students work on their communication, team building, and problem-solving skills utilizing our adventure education program.
     
     Community-Based Services (Putnam County)
     - Through our community-based services program, we serve at-risk youth in Putnam County including runaway, homeless, foster care, seriously emotionally disturbed, and juvenile delinquent youth and their families by providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, referrals to services, a community outreach center, case management, therapeutic recreation, after-school programs, and other supportive services. Approximately 500 youth from Putnam County and the surrounding area receive direct services annually.
     
     Special Events open to the General Public (approximately 2,000 community members attend events each year)--
     - Green Chimneys hosts family-friendly events throughout the year including Birds of Prey Day, 4H Presentations, a trail run, Little Folk Farm Days, and nature-focused educational programs at Clearpool. We encourage visitors to our Farm and Wildlife Center on our Brewster campus on weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
     
     Nature's Nursery (approximately 130 children attend annually)-- Preschool, Kindergarten, and before/after school programs for children ages 3-12. Enriching, age-appropriate activities are provided in our unique nature-based setting which supports social, physical, and emotional growth and a solid foundation for learning.
     
     Summer Day Camp Programs at Brewster and Clearpool (approximately 1,000 children ages 4-18 attend each year)- We have 550 acres ideal for summer camp with lakes, forests, hiking trails, fields, a climbing tower, playgrounds, indoor pool, ropes courses, gardens, and farm animals. Children swim, play on the playground, engage in sports, do crafts, sing songs, kayak, canoe, and ride horses and ponies. We provide high-quality, affordable camp experiences to children from the surrounding communities and raise funds to offer scholarships for families in need.
     
     Governance
     Green Chimneys Children's Services (1974) and Green Chimneys School (1947) are separate 501(c)(3) non-profit corporations partially funded by contracts with public agencies. The Friends of Green Chimneys, incorporated as its own 501(c)(3) non-profit in 1996, was established to raise additional needed funds for Green Chimneys programs. Edward W. Placke, Ed.D.is the Executive Director of Green Chimneys. Green Chimneys was founded in 1947 by the late Dr. Samuel Ross, Jr.
     
     Green Chimneys is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), Council on Accreditation (COA), National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES), and Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) Premier Accredited Center. We are honored to have been designated an EQUUS Foundation Mentor last year.
     Green Chimneys is approved/licensed by NYS Board of Social Welfare, NYS Department of Health, NYS Department of Social Services, NYS Education Department, NYS Office of Children and Family Services, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and US Fish & Wildlife Service.

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POLICIES: INTAKE, ASSESSMENT & TRAINING

Prior to a horse being accepted and/or arriving at the facility, the organization has the following policies in place:
    The owner of a potential equine is interviewed over the phone or in person prior to seeing the equine
    The equine is evaluated at its place of residence
    The owner completes an application/contract which constitutes the agreement between the owner and our organization when the equine is acquired from the equine's owner other than by purchase from an auction or kill pen, or by seizure or by abandonment
    If health records are not available or are out-of-date, our veterinarian will administer appropriate vaccinations

Trial Period: Check all that apply:
    Equines are on trial up to 60 days

Upon intake, the organization has the following quarantine policy in place:
    The equine is confined to a designated and separate area for isolation and quarantine at the facility for a prescribed period of time

The typical length of quarantine is:   10 to 20 days

Following arrival of the equine at the facility, the following is performed:
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a veterinarian upon arrival
    Physical examination to include temperature, pulse and respiration by a trained staff member upon arrival
    A Henneke Body Conditioning Score or other body conditioning score is assigned
    Photographs are taken of each equine upon arrival at the facility and kept with the equine's health records
    Physical examination by a farrier
    Physical examination by a dentist
    Coggins test
    Fecal test
    Vaccinations
    De-worming

Horses are assessed for following skills and behaviors:
    Retrieval from a pasture/paddock
    Leading with a halter and lead rope
    Temperament, disposition and attitude, such as rated from very calm to very high spirited
    Saddling
    Bridling
    Loading onto and unloading off a trailer
    Mounting and dismounting
    Riding at the walk
    Riding at the trot
    Riding at the canter
    Riding by a beginner and/or unbalanced rider
    Tolerance to unusual objects and loud noises
    Known vices, i.e., cribbing, biting, kicking, weaving, stall walking, etc
    Grooming
    Bathing
    Clipping
    Tolerance to multiple handlers at the same time

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the ongoing assessment of horses in its care:
    Physical examination by a veterinarian at least annually
    The Henneke Body Condition score or other body conditioning score is updated at least annually
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine chiropractor
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine acupuncturist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine massage therapist
    Equines at our facility may be treated by an equine nutritionist
Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to the weight-carrying or workload capabilities of horses/equines that are ridden in our care:
    Our organization evaluates at least annually and maintains a written record of the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden

The following variables are considered in determining the weight-carrying and workload limitations for each equine that is ridden:
    Equine age, weight, breed, body condition, fitness, balance, health and soundness
    Size, shape, condition and angle of the hooves
    Participant weight, height, body proportions, balance, fitness and riding skills as well as behavioral issues and safety concerns
    Weight and proper fit of the saddle and other equipment
    Terrain and footing in the working environment
    Duration and frequency of working sessions, as the frequency with which an equine is subjected to maximum weight carrying and/or workload
    Nature and pace of work, repetitive or varied, radius of turns, degree of incline and regularity of footing when equine is subject to maximum weight-carrying capacity
    Temperature and/or weather conditions
    Seasonal impact on the equines' workload and weight-carrying capabilities and limitations


Horses provided formal training (groundwork or riding):   Daily

POLICIES: BREEDING

The organization has the following policies related to breeding and stallions:
    Our organization does not conduct breeding of equines owned or under the care of our organization.
    Our main facility where our organization conducts its programs does NOT breed equines.

POLICIES: EUTHANASIA

The organization has the following policies related to euthanasia:
    Our organization will never have an equine euthanized for space
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian if the equine is a threat to itself, other equines, or people
    Our organization will have an equine euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian after all reasonable treatment options have been explored
    Euthanasia is done on site when possible to decrease trauma from transport
    Disposal of the carcass is handled within 24 hours

The following are authorized to administer the procedure for your organization in accordance with state laws:
    Veterinarian

Additional information about our euthanasia policies and practices:
Euthanasia: Setting Some Guidelines
     
     Developed by Michael Kaufmann for Green Chimneys and a presentation for the Global Association of Sanctuaries
     
     1. As a center team, discuss equine quality of life, orthopedic surgery, colic surgery, and other costly medical procedures from a philosophical, emotional, and economic perspective BEFORE there is a medical crisis with a horse. Having this conversation can give everyone a sense of where they stand.
     
     2. Have a meeting with your veterinarian and discuss your center equine care budget before there is a medical emergency. Let your vet see the financial capacity and limitations you may have. This will help them in guiding you through an emergency with realistic options.
     
     3. Anticipate and prevent medical problems through good stewardship.
     
     4. Involve your center board. The board and Executive Director can prepare for the financial ramifications of a potentially expensive equine medical procedure during the budget process. Is there an equine emergency fund set aside or does the budget anticipate emergencies and costly procedures?
     
     5. Have a separate equine care advisory group. This group should consist of three of four people who have deep equine backgrounds, but are not directly involved in your center. When an equine medical crisis present itself and there is dispute over what should be done, presenting the case to this group and allowing them to give you their thoughts can give a center impartial feedback.
     
     6. Know when it is time to discuss and when it is time to act. Ultimately one person has to make a decision no matter what the team feels. This can be a lonely and difficult spot to be in. But it is critical that there is someone, either the executive director or the program director who is willing and able to consider all options and input, but then steps up and just makes a decision in an expedient way on behalf of the horse and the center.
     
     7. Euthanasia of a horse confronts people with their own emotions. Death, dying and loss can be difficult to experience and must be processed by each individual at your center. Separating the human reaction to euthanasia from what the horse may actually need is helpful. Having a mental health professional in your team who can help guide and identify feelings can be a support.

POLICIES: RE-HOMING

Re-homing Agreement not applicable.
Our organization has the following re-homing (adoption/purchase) policies and procedures in place:
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.

Our organization has the following policies and procedures related to horses that need to be retired, are no longer able to contribute to the mission of the organization, and/or are no longer manageable:
    The organization does not re-home equines under any circumstances; our organization retains custody of our equines and ensures care of the equines for their lifetimes.
    Equines may remain at our organization for their lifetimes
    In the case an equine is unmanageable and demonstrates repeated dangerous behaviors, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian
    In the case an equine is unsound and/or unhealthy and cannot be treated to relieve suffering, the equine may be euthanized upon the recommendation of the veterinarian

Additional information about our rehoming policies and practices:
NA

EQUINE CARE & SHELTER/FACILITY INFORMATION

Total facilities at which our organization cares for and shelters horses used in our programs: 1
Our organization does not CURRENTLY use satellite, overflow, foster, and/or outreach facilities.

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Green Chimneys Brewster Campus
400 Doansburg Road, Box 719 Brewster NY 10509
Currently operational
Total number of horses/equines currently involved with your programs, under your care, and/or owned by your organization at this facility: 19
Total number of horses at this facility INCLUDING those counted above: 19
Maximum capacity of horses at this facility: 22

Does your organization own, lease or use a part of this facility? Own

Provide the contact information for the individual or organization responsible for investigating abuse in the county where the facility is located, including mailing address, email address, and phone information.
     Putnam County Sheriff's Department, 3 County Center, Carmel, NY 10512

Does your organization conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) at this facility in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS)? Yes

Total number of Equine Assisted Service Providers AT THIS FACILITY, including instructors, specialists, therapists, counselors, coaches and/or facilitators (full-time, part-time, volunteer, independent contractors, and/or providers accompanying clients) that conduct Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in accordance with the EQUUS Foundation Guidelines on Qualifications of Organizations Conducting Equine Assisted Services (EAS) AT THIS FACILITY:  5

Equine Assisted Service Providers Assigned to this Facility: (see Equine Assisted Service Provider Section below for details)

     1. Green Chimneys School
     2. Michael Kaufmann
     3. Miyako Kinoshita
     4. Samantha Arevalo
     5. Valerie Parody

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Green Chimneys Brewster Campus

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Veterinarian Information
Veterinarian: Dr. Jenn Enger, DVM
Clinic Name: Mid-Hudson Vet
394 Route 52
Carmel   NY   10512
Phone: 845-225-3100

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Overview: Green Chimneys Brewster Campus (*Main)
Total acreage dedicated specifically to the horses: 25
Our organization has use of the following at this facility:
Structures/Barns: 1  Run-in sheds: 12
Pastures: 2  Paddocks/Pens/Turnout Areas: 6
Uncovered Outdoor Rings: 2  Covered Outdoor Rings: 0  Indoor Rings: 1
















Regarding structures/barns where horses are housed other than run-in sheds:
Do horses have assigned stalls in the structure(s)?    Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses stalled? 0-3;

Regarding all shelters where horses are housed including run-in sheds:
How often are the stalls/shelters cleaned, i.e., kept in good repair and free of standing water, accumulated waste, sharp objects and debris? 6-7 Days a Week
Do all stalls/shelters allow horses to lie down, stand up and turn around and provide protection from inclement weather (wind, sleet, rain, snow and extreme temperatures)?    Yes    
Is there adequate ceiling & beam height (a minimum of 12 feet above the tip of the horse's ear) when standing in all stalls/shelters?    Yes    
Are floors constructed and maintained for both good drainage and traction?    Yes    
Is there a ventilation and circulation system in place to allow free flow of air to control temperature, and humidity, and to prevent air stagnation?    Yes    

Is wiring inaccessible to horses and maintained for safety in all areas of facility?    Yes    
Are fire prevention/protection measures (fire alarms, extinguishers and sprinkler systems) maintained and in good working order?     Yes    
Is there adequate lighting to ensure safety in all areas of facility?     Yes    
Are the organization's rules, restrictions and warnings (signage) and emergency contacts, including veterinarian contact information, conspicuously posted in easily accessible locations?    Yes    
Are human and equine first aid kits easily accessible?     Yes    
How many hours per day, on average, are horses turned out:
    Equines are out 24/7 except they are brought in if there is inclement weather
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are being trained
    Equines are out 24/7 except when they are used for the conduct of the organization's programs

The following describes the pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for pasture management, which includes guidelines for seeding, fertilizing, irrigation, mowing, dragging, harrowing, manure removal, removal of debris, the control of poisonous plants, and a schedule for cleaning
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for pasture management
    All pastures are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly
    Pastures are rotated
    Pastures have natural protection for equines (i.e., trees)
    Pastures have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)

The following describes the turnout areas other than pastures at this facility:
    This facility has a written plan in place for the maintenance of turnout areas, which includes a schedule for cleaning, manure removal, and dragging
    A dedicated staff person(s) is responsible for the maintenance of turnout areas
    All turnout areas are fenced to prevent escape or injury
    Turnout areas have man-made protection for equines (i.e., shelters)
    Fencing checks, such as broken or missing planks, loose fence posts, exposed or loose nails, detached wires, etc., are done regularly

The following policies and procedures are in place at the facility to restrict public access and to keep horses safe:
    A security guard is present at night
    There is a practice in place to monitor equines overnight
    No Trespassing signs are posted
    Hold Harmless signs are posted
    Authorized Personnel Only signs are posted
    Entrance gates are locked at night
    Visitors are only permitted at specific times
    Visitors are only permitted in specific areas
    The property is fitted with motion lights
    The property is fitted with a security system that is monitored internally by staff (or the property owner)

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Equine Care/Emergency Preparedness: Green Chimneys Brewster Campus (*Main) 2025 and 2024 This section is required.

Horse Health Care/Barn Management Records: What system is used to collect and store health/horse care records?
    Onsite computer with onsite backup storage system
    The organization utilizes its own system to maintain records
    Our organization would use free cloud-based barn management software if available

The following items are consistent with our feed management plan and practices:
    Equines are provided with individualized feeding plans, including supplements, according to the equine's age, breed/type, condition, size, work level and any health issues, consisting of nutritious food provided in sufficient quantity and access to adequate natural forage, or be fed daily, or as recommended by the organization's veterinarian
    Feed plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Supplement plans are determined in consultation with a veterinarian
    Equines are fed grain in individual stalls
    Staff and volunteers are trained in proper feed measurements and protocols and observed periodically to ensure they are feeding correctly
    The feed chart is centrally located and updated as needed
    The area(s) where hay, feed, grain, and supplements are stored are kept clean, free of debris and chemicals, and protected from weather and other animals in rodent-proof and mold-proof containers and grain bins
    Feed, supplements and hay types are clearly labeled
    Water sources, i.e., buckets, troughs, automatic waterers, etc. are kept clean, free of contaminants, debris and chemicals, protected from weather and other animals, and be positioned or affixed to minimize spillage.
    Medications are kept in a locked, climate-controlled area

Is clean, potable water available at all times for all equines, or if not at all times, at least twice daily?     Yes    

Hoof Care: How often is hoof care provided for each equine? Every 4-8 weeks and when an issue arises

Dental Care: How often is dental care provided for each equine? Annually and when an issue arises

Horse checks: How often are equines visually and physically checked by personnel at the facility? Every day or 6 days a week

Our organization has the following parasite and fly/insect control protocols in place, including remedies used to control flies and insects:
    Our organization follows the parasite control guidelines of our veterinarian, including fecal testing and de-worming
    Fly/Insect Control Remedies:
    Fly parasites
    Feed Through Products
    Fly Traps and Tapes
    Premise Sprays/Insecticides
    Fly Spray Repellent
    Fly Masks
    Fly Sheets
    Fans

The following represent the biosecurity practices in place at facility:
    Our organization follows the biosecurity guidelines of our veterinarian
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines do not have contact with other equines or other animals
    The organization has a written biosecurity plan
    Staff are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    Volunteers are trained in best practices related to biosecurity
    A specific individual is trained and assigned to care for sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cared for last if the caretaker must also care for healthy equines
    Restricted access signs are posted at primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Hand sanitizers and footbaths are available at all primary points of access to sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Manure and bedding from sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is disposed of in specific areas designated for infectious materials - not put in open air piles, and not spread on pastures
    Stalls, aisle ways, and common areas are disinfected after conclusion of the quarantine
    Trailers/vans used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines are cleaned and disinfected after each use and cleaning takes place away from where equines are sheltered
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is not shared and is clearly labeled
    Equipment used by sick, affected and/or quarantined equines is cleaned of organic debris and disinfected after each use
    Latex gloves, or equivalent gloves, are worn when working with sick, affected and/or quarantined equines
    Personnel are required to leave the facility (or shower and change clothing) after working with quarantined equines

The following represent the manure removal practices in place at facility:
    Manure is stored in dumpster(s)
    Manure is hauled, sold or given away
    Manure piles are composted or spread on pastures
    Our organization adheres to the manure management guidelines set by the state, local authorities, and/or our organization's veterinarian

The following steps are taken to help staff and volunteers readily identify each horse on the property:
    Equines are assigned the same exclusive stall each day
    Name plates are located on the stall
    Photos are located on the stall
    Equines wear halters with nametags
    A notebook or binder with photos and information on each equine is easily accessible
    A map/diagram is posted showing the location of each equine with equine names and photos
    Staff and volunteers are provided with an information packet with equine profiles, including photos and detailed descriptions
    Staff/volunteers are provided training on conformation, markings, colors, and breeds
    Team leaders work with new staff/volunteers until they are able to identify the equines

Our organization has the following policies and procedures in place pertaining to tack, apparel and equipment:
     All equines have specifically assigned tack, apparel and equipment that is not shared
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are fitted and utilized for each equine appropriate to the equine's needs and the weather conditions
    Blankets, sheets and turn out apparel are cleaned regularly as needed
    Tack is cleaned after each use
    Tack is inspected for overall working condition before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit before each use by trained personnel
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's body condition changes
    Tack is assessed for fit by trained personnel when an equine's disposition changes
    This facility enlists the services of a professional saddle fitter at least once a year
    Assigned tack is clearly labeled
    Tack is stored in a climate-controlled location
    Helmets are shared
    Helmets are cleaned/disinfected after each use
    Helmets are replaced after a fall
    Helmets are replaced at least every five years.

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Emergency Preparedness: Green Chimneys Brewster Campus: *Main This section is required.
The following plans, policies, and procedures are in place at the facility to handle emergencies and address weather related issues, fire safety procedures, and/or any additional hazardous scenarios the facility could potentially experience:
    Emergency procedures are posted prominently
    Emergency phone numbers are posted prominently
    The facility owns or has access to a generator
    The facility maintains at least two weeks of hay, feed, shavings and medications
    The facility collects and maintains medical information from staff, volunteers, and clients
    The facility maintains appropriate liability and/or workers' compensation insurance
    The organization has a written emergency preparedness/safety plan (EPP)
The written EPP addresses the following areas:
    Local fire department and/or the state's emergency planning department procedures
    Medical emergencies for clients, staff, and volunteers
    Medical emergencies for equines
    Evacuation plans
    Power outages
    Fire
    Natural Disasters - thunderstorm, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados, etc
    Terrorist attacks
    Protocols to notify emergency personnel
    Building/facility exit plans


The facility follows the specific procedures to help PREVENT emergency situations:
    Smoking is strictly prohibited
    NO SMOKING signs are posted prominently
    Hay is stored away from permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled
    Permanent or temporary structures where equines are stalled are kept free of dust, cobwebs, trash, cleaning rags, and other flammable items
    Aisles and doorways are kept clear
    Heaters with automatic shutoff settings are used

How often are the following checked or performed?
Fire Extinguishers are checked: Daily
Smoke detectors are checked: Daily
Electrical Systems are checked: Daily
Fence lines are checked: Daily
Turnout Areas are checked: Daily
Sprinkler systems are checked: Daily
Fire drills are conducted: Monthly
Review of safety protocols with staff are conducted: Monthly
Review of safety protocols with volunteers are conducted: Monthly
The Emergency Preparedness Plan is reviewed and updated: Quarterly

Equine Transportation
2-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
3-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
4-horse van/trailer with truck:
    1 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
6-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  2 Access onsite but not owned  1 Access offsite;
8-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;
10-horse van/trailer with truck:
    0 Owned onsite  0 Access onsite but not owned  0 Access offsite;

GOVERNANCE, MANAGEMENT & FINANCIAL REPORTING

Financial Reporting
Budget:  $2M to $5M
Equine Budget:   $250K to $500K
Month Fiscal Year Ends: 07
Type of Financial Reporting (Audit, Review, Compilation): Audit
Type of IRS Filing (990, 990-EZ, 990-N): 990
View The IRS Form 990/Pro Forma 990


Governing Body:
Board meetings per year:  6
Number of Board Members:  22  Number of Voting Board Members:  22

Board Compensation:
Is the Board Chair compensated?  No  Is the Treasurer compensated?  No
Are there any other Voting Board Members that are compensated?  No

Board/Staff Relationships:
Are any members of the Board, Staff or Program Participants related to each other through family or business relationships? No

Board Affiliations:
Are any Board members providing services to your organization or compensated by your organization, or are any Board members or staff members associated with and/or compensated by another organization with a relationship or business affiliation to your organization? No

Conflict of Interest:
Does your organization have a written conflict of interest policy that ensures that any compensated board member is a NON-VOTING (Independent) board member or that any compensated board member or any board member related to a compensated staff member, independent contractor, or any related board members, or any individual or organization that might benefit from a board decision, abstains from voting on issues impacting such compensation and requires officers, directors or trustees, and key employees to disclose at least annually in writing interests that could give rise to conflicts?  Yes


Compliance:
Below is a list all local, state and federal licenses held by the organization, and/or accreditations or compliances with the published standards of an accrediting organization, if applicable:  N/A

Organization documents available on our website:
    None

Organization documents available on request:
    Most recent Financials
    Most recent IRS Form 990
    Most recent Annual Report
    Equine Intake Guidelines
    Volunteer Handbook
    Staff Handbook
    Bylaws


Staff & Volunteers:
Chief Staff Officer (CSO):  Kristin Dionne
Employees/Independent Contractors:   Full-Time:  550  Part-Time:  44  Volunteers:  150
Staff Recruitment, Screening and Training processes including employees and independent contractors:
    Prospective staff/independent contractors complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective staff and independent contractors that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective staff/independent contractors serving in the capacity as staff have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Staff and/or contractors are required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Staff and/or contractors are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Staff and/or contractors are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective staff/independent contractors are required to undergo a Background Check
    Staff and/or contractors provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Staff and/or contractors carry current health insurance
    Staff and/or contractors have a written job description
    Staff and/or contractors are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Staff and/or contractors are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Staff and/or contractors receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Staff and/or contractors have a supervisor and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The organization provides a handbook to every member of the staff, including employees and/or independent contractors serving in staff positions;
    The handbook includes information, such as hours of work, vacation, sick leave, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in CPR and human first aid
    One or more staff members or contractors are trained in equine first aid

Volunteer Recruitment, Screening and Training processes:
    Prospective volunteers complete a written application/agreement
    Our organization has a practice in place to ensure that the organization has sufficient knowledge of the background of prospective volunteers that may impact the safety of your clients and your horses, such as whether prospective volunteers have been convicted of a sexual offense or convicted for animal cruelty or neglect. Such practices must comply with local, state, and federal mandates.
    Volunteers required to complete a Liability Release/Hold Harmless Agreement
    Volunteers are required to provide Emergency Medical Information
    Volunteers are required to sign a Photo Release
    Prospective volunteers are required to undergo a Background Check
    Volunteers provide parent/guardian information if applicable
    Volunteers carry current health insurance
    Volunteers have written job descriptions
    Volunteers are evaluated on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in their job description
    Volunteers are updated on all the organization's policies and procedures on an annual and as needed basis or with any change in policy or procedure
    Volunteers receive training that includes safety guidelines, confidentiality, equine handling, equine identification, and emergency procedures; additional training is job specific
    Volunteers are assigned a supervisor (staff member and/or senior volunteer) and is responsible for keeping their supervisor up to date on work related activities
    The supervisor assesses the volunteer's abilities and assigns specific duties to the volunteer based on their skills
    The organization records and maintains written attendance information and hours on every volunteer
    The organization provides a Volunteer Handbook to every volunteer
    The Volunteer Handbook includes volunteer-related information, such as hours of work, dress code, cell phone usage, and the protocol for dismissal
    The Volunteer Handbook is reviewed annually and updated
    The organization holds regular orientation sessions for volunteers and prospective volunteers that includes an overview of the organization, its mission, activities, volunteer responsibilities and expectations, safety guidelines, and a tour of the facility