Green Chimneys

Founded in 1947 and headquartered on a farm and wildlife center in Brewster, NY, with a second campus in Carmel, NY, Green Chimneys is recognized as a worldwide leader in animal-assisted therapy and educational activities for children with special needs. Green Chimneys services include an accredited special education school on two campuses; residential treatment center; nature-based therapeutic programs; community-based support for youth and families; and public education and recreation opportunities for all ages.

Each of our programs celebrates the dignity and worth of all living things. Green Chimneys is a pioneer in animal and nature-based therapy, striving to create a harmonious relationship among children, animals and the environment incorporating an array of educational, residential, recreational, and mental health services. Through innovative therapies and tools to teach critical life skills, we help youth reclaim their childhood, discover their self-worth and create a future for themselves as independent, contributing adults. We carry out this work in alignment with our Guiding Principles

Green Chimneys is a 501c3 corporation. Programs and services are funded by private donations and grants from foundations, corporations and public agencies.

Meeting Special Needs

Green Chimneys offers day and residential programs for students who have been unsuccessful in traditional education environments and who benefit from a small, structured and supportive setting. Natural surroundings create a safe, therapeutic environment for students with special needs, incorporating innovative animal-assisted and nature-based activities. A nurturing approach features small class sizes, high staff-to-student ratio, and certified teaching staff to provide full academic, behavioral and emotional support for grades K-12. Our goal is to help students reach their maximum potential so they may return to their home school district with the best chance of success.