Small Steps Toward Big Changes

Green Chimneys' Recreation and Residential Life staff recently launched Tom's Trail Challenge, a friendly walking competition to promote healthy habits and community-building among residential students. Resident groups are rewarded for walking laps of the Tom's Trail Loop, with those taking the most laps earning more prizes. Adding extra fun to the challenge is Tater Tot, a mini horse who joined our equine herd a few weeks ago. Tater Tot is on a fitness plan that includes a healthy new diet and the gradual introduction of exercise. Led by students, he takes a lap around the trail each day, and everyone has fallen in love with his adorable strut and sweet disposition.

Read more about the challenge and Tater Tot's fitness journey >

A Year of Rehabilitation

Our dedicated wildlife team expertly cares for injured animals, primarily birds, that arrive at Green Chimneys throughout the year and also incorporates their stories into our nature-based programming. Additionally, the 100 birds rehabilitated in 2023 offered meaningful lessons in resilience and patience for our students, who are learning and practicing these skills on the farm and in the classroom every day.

Catch up on this year's rescue stories >

The Spirit of Giving

Students made a list, checked it twice, and headed to the gym to choose thoughtful gifts for their loved ones at the Holiday Baazar.

Each year, this tradition is a wonderful opportunity to spread holiday cheer while building life skills. Students have the opportunity to participate in the spirit of the season, imagine what people on their list would like to receive, and make decisions as they browse the gift options. Staff stand by to assist students through the process and help them gift-wrap their final selections.

We're grateful to our residential and support staff for making this event possible!